This is advice for Mommy (Sheena) but I am sure that some of you dear readers can use this information as well.
My son is 14 months old and while I am not truly a “veteran” at mommyhood I do have pearls of wisdom to share. Sheena, you have a finite time between now and when Boogie starts to become independent, expressing himself in ways that may not always make you happy. So first off, I implore you, enjoy the newborn stage and don’t be in a rush for him to become mobile. Relish every moment of Boogie’s immobility because the difference between a newborn and a toddler are astounding!
Here are some things that will help you on your journey.
1. Never underestimate the value of spending time with your peers. Join Mocha Moms (www.mochamoms.org), a meet-up group or start one of your own. The time spent with your peers will provide you with a sounding board, help alleviate your fears and if the group has Mommies Night Out (I highly suggest finding a group with MNO, you can have fun without wondering if you are going to have to pull your boob out in the company of strangers) join immediately.
2. I know that you are nursing, please hear me on this one – WEAR A BRA AT ALL TIMES! Even to bed. Otherwise you will be looking at those girls sag wondering “what happened to my perky breasts? ? ?”
3. Time passes quickly, be sure to take as many photos of Boogie as possible. He is changing everyday and 10 months from now your recollection of what he looked like will be vastly different from reality.
4. Take time for self. ALONE. I am sure that being a mommy, blogging, and running your business are time consuming but you need to take a break from it all. Even if it is just to get a manicure, a cup of coffee, or read a good book.
5. If you have not already started, begin laying Boogie down for naps and bedtime when he is drowsy but not asleep. The ability for him to self-sooth will provide you with extra hours of sleep. This is very important. Sleep depravation is a terrible malady that most Moms suffer from. Beat the curve on this one, don’t be average! You don’t want to be the Mom that is still rocking your son to sleep at 3 years of age.
6. Schedule a date night (or day) at least once a month! Spending time with your soon-to-be husband without Boogie is vitally important to the success of your relationship. Trust me on this one, make it happen.
7. Find a good reliable babysitter so that you can go on the date referenced above. Don’t be like me and wait until he is 10 months before you and Greg have a night on the town!
8. Finally and most importantly – Enjoy yourself! Don’t worry about being a “good mommy” I am sure you are the best. Don’t question your ability to be a Mommy – remember that we all make mistakes don’t beat yourself up when you make one.
So there you have it. My personal pearls of wisdom. Kind readers I am sure that you have some pearls, please share them with us! Thank you Mommy (Sheena) and Daddy (Greg) for letting me take some space up in your blog. It has been fun and if you ever need advice in the middle of the night – please don’t call me. I will be catching up on all of the sleep that I’ve missed over the past 14 months!
Renée aka Mekhi’s Mom became a blogger to chronicle her life as a work at home mom, wife, new business owner, and early literacy consultant. Her obsession with diaper cakes motivated her to start Cutie Booty Cakes –Diapers Shaped Like Cakes. Her cakes are gorgeous, stop by the website and see for yourself.
{ 14 comments }
GREAT LIST!
I’d like to add to #2 “and make sure it’s NOT underwire” also if I had thought about it “take pictures so you remember why they weren’t better bigger”
LOL
What a great start you have already as a newer mother. Your ahead of the game with understanding the important aspects of parenting. Examples: time for yourself, time with spouse, etc. I can tell that there is alot of love in your family and that is the most important thing.
You have a beautiful family and what a cute picture of the three of you. Renee recommended your site and I’m glad that I stopped by.
Carries last blog post..Natural Remedies
It’s always nice to have a piece of advice when your a new mom!!!
So here is mine (feels free to discard them as you wish!)
Breasfeeding (Ps I’m a post partum nurse )
1. nurse as often as baby wants!!!!
2. no wearing bra (if possible) this will prevent: breast cancer later in life, promote a better milk flow, prevent breast infection!!!!! If concern about getting saggy do some pectoral exersice (muscles on hupper chest)
And enjoy you little one cause they don’t stay little for long!!!!
Renees last blog post..What have we been up to!
I nursed both of mine. One is 7 and one is 13. It is so worth the sagging boobs.
Tammy Warrens last blog post..Yes, this happened in the shower!
Very Good post, Renee!!
I will second the advice about dating. You’ve got to stay connected, connected, connected. The kids will come and go but in the end it will be you two alone again.
Well said and well written, Renee. I particularly liked the part about always wearing a bra. That gave me a good laugh!!!
Keiths last blog post..10 Things I Want To Do
as much as it sucks, i have to agree with #2!! i nursed for a year and even though i totally hated wearing a bra ALL THE TIME i think it paid off, but then again, i can’t even remember what they looked like before (my son is going on 3).
i’ll add that if you have just a little bit of time, it might be cool to jot down a few things that your son does in a journal. i’ve been keeping a journal since my son was born. i don’t write every day (not hardly), but it’s cool to go back and read little things that i wrote and would’ve never remembered otherwise.
oh, and since you have a baby boy…make sure he’s always pointing down in his diaper!!! less mess and less leaks!
okay, that’s all from me. love your blog!
mama’s got moxies last blog post..fit flops, fit flops!!
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