Motherhood: what I've learned so far

6 weeks into the game, I am by no means an expert at motherhood. But here are a few things I've learned thus so far:

• If people ask how they can help you, tell them food.


• The moment you buy a rectal thermometer, your child will poop


• Earplugs are a good thing when sharing a room (husband and baby)


• It is important to learn how to forget unsolicited/unwanted advice and or snide comments (in this particular instance, earplugs will not due)


• There is no manual that tells you how to make your child happy


• If you choose not to breastfeed, you are not a bad mother. Sometimes I forget the fact that I was raised on formula and darned it, I think I turned out pretty good :)


• Urine is sterile. You don't have to use a wipe if the diaper is only wet


• Maternity leave will fly by and then, if you are like me, you'll have mixed emotions. You'll crave adult interaction, but you'll miss your baby. Then a new problem presents itself: how in the world are you supposed to trust another person to care for your child in the same quality and manner you are presently providing?


• Voicemail messages will take an average of 3+ days to be returned


• People who bring meals in containers that don't have to be returned are smart


• Carseats are freaking heavy, especially with a child in it


• First-time moms are a little psychotic. I recognize this in myself. The question remains though, how I do remedy this?


• Time out of the house, without baby, is necessary.


• The immediate days after having the baby, you will be emotional. Blame it on a combination of sleep deprivation, the stress of being a new parent, and hormones. All of it together will equal tears. I had three weeks of emotional anxiety. Part of it was the stress of breastfeeding not going well, but I think part of it was feeling completely out of control. While I am definitely not in control, or even close to it, life has fallen into more of a pattern.


• During wee hour feedings or in the middle of a wailing baby's cries, it has been helpful to remember this passage: "Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.


• I am continually surprised and deeply grateful for the generosity of friends and family.