Adventures in Parenting

My first “baby” is turning 21 years old in a week!

With my eyes closed, I can still picture a few memories of those moments shared with him that first year of life, when we were both new at this thing called parenting.

That first year was tough. Sleep deprived, a body that was no longer mine, and having to care of another human being totally dependent on me was both exhilarating and exhausting.

Now as I look back, I would say to all new moms, Enjoy Your Baby!

Here are 5 ways to maximize the enjoyment of your baby:

1. Focus on the positive. Another diaper change? Tickle his tummy and have a good laugh while doing it. Up at night? Get some reading done while feeding at the same time. You can always sleep after he goes to college.

2. Join mommy groups. Community groups, play groups, library storytimes. Find a local MOPS group (Mothers Of Preschoolers). Meeting and sharing stories with other moms helps maintain your sanity.

3. Enjoy each stage. Don’t say, “I can’t wait until I get rid of the stroller” or “I wish he would start talking soon”. Before you know it, your baby will be out of the baby stage. Cherish each stage of life your baby is in. Once he moves on, there is no turning back.

4. Take a breather out for yourself. I posted on Moms Talk Network “10 Ways to Rejuvenate in 10 Minutes a Day.” A few minutes a day recharges your batteries for the challenges ahead.

5. Take lots of pictures. They are worth a thousand words. But you should still put a few words of caption to remember the occasion.

Photo by eyeliam