07/21/2016
A word of encouragement..
First time moms, a note of encouragement:
I've done this newborn gig four times already with my own, plus helped other moms with their own brand new little ones. And even I don't have it all figured out.
Each baby is a brand new story. I may be able to change a diaper faster than you, identify a bad latch, and know to always have the new diaper ready before removing the old one. But I don't know *this* baby. I don't know what it's like parenting this baby with these kids at these ages. I still struggle. I get overwhelmed, I feel like I don't know what I'm doing, I get stressed and feel like everyone else does a better job than me.
But what my experience *has* given me is the knowledge that this stage won't last forever. I will learn her unique cries, her personality, her preferences. We will find our rhythm, she will get less helpless, and these early, stressful days will one day be a distant memory.
Don't feel alone. Don't feel like you're the only one not basking in the glory of newborn bliss. You'll have beautiful moments, and not-so beautiful ones. You'll have to bite your lip to keep from screaming in frustration, and have to make yourself stop staring at and kissing that amazing, perfect little person so you can go p*e.
You'll get through this. I'll get through this. It will be easier if we do it together. It's okay if it's not okay. Tell me. Tell me when it's good. Tell me when it is hard. Tell me every amazing moment. Tell me when you're falling apart. Tell a friend. Tell a sister. Tell someone. And feel safe knowing you're not the only one.
And now this "experienced" mom of five is going to go collapse into bed and hope she can get a few hours of sleep. 😉🙏🙏
