The first year of motherhood goes by so quickly.
When my son was just a couple of weeks old I read many articles about what happens when your baby turns into a toddler. I remember thinking that was so far away. Then I blinked and my son is now 14 months old.
Here are twelve things you should do during your first year with your baby.
Babysitter - Find someone you trust to babysit. This was really hard for us. We don't have family in the town we live in. It took awhile for us to find someone we trust but it is so important. Every mom needs and deserves and break and every marriage needs nurturing.
Sleeping On You - There is no better feeling on Earth than having your baby fall asleep on your chest. The dishes may need to be cleaned and the laundry may be piling up but you never know when the last time he will fall asleep on your chest.
Make Time For Yourself - This one is difficult to do. In the beginning I felt guilty wanting time to myself much less actually taking time for myself. After I started making time for myself I realized that I was a better mother and wife when I was relaxed and happy. Taking care of yourself is one of the most selfless things you can do for your family.
Record Your Thoughts - No matter how many pictures you take make sure you are writing notes and recording your thoughts, feelings, funny stories and memorable moments.
Memory Box - Along with all the photos and the notes keep a few small mementos, such as his bracelet from the hospital or his first tiny hat.
Monthly Photos - Take a photo every month (or week) for the first year. It's amazing how fast they grow and it's so much fun going back and looking at all the pictures.
Old Photos - Find old photos of you and your spouse and compare them to your baby. It is so much fun to see how much he looks like each of you.
Record His Laugh (and Cry) - The best sound on Earth is the sound of your baby giggling. As he grows his laugh will change and grow with him. One day you will miss that sound. One day you will also miss the sound of his cry.
Travel - Take your little one on trips with you. These trips will not be the same as they were before you had a baby. In many ways they will be better. I love seeing the world through my sons eyes.
Video Everything - They grow and change so quickly. Video everything you can and then put your phone down and enjoy the moment.
Ask For Help - They say it takes a village to raise a baby and it does. There is no way anyone could do everything on our own nor should we feel like we have to. Ask for help and be specific with what you need and want.
Buy Less Stuff - Babies really don't need as much stuff as we think. Many of the things we buy are really cute but unnecessary. Just buy what you need because your baby will quickly grow out of many things. Also when you are registering ask for things that you may not use until later. You will get a lot of things for a newborn and very few things for him once he turns 9 months or a year.
