So mommyhood…it has only been 3 months since little Levi joined our family, but I think that life as we knew it has definitely changed forever. The adjustment to having a baby, complete responsibility for this new little life, has been a process. Not always easy but completely worth it. I love being a mom! It has been such a joy to watch Levi grow and change from just a cute little sleeping lump in the hospital only three months ago into a 12+ pound baby boy who is alert and awake and charms us with his adorable coos and smiles. Don’t get me wrong…some days are certainly more challenging than others, as about every mom I know would probably say, but all of the happy moments make it all worth while. I feel like I have learned so much so far. There is definitely something to be said for on the job training!
Since Matt and I are always big fans of lists and organization, I decided how better to capture my first time mommy experiences and new knowledge than with a top ten list. So without further ado, in no particular order…In my first three months of on-the-job mommy training, I have learned that…
10) Having a baby has redefined the meaning of “a clean house”…”a productive day”…and “good sleep.”
9) Even in the midst of a crazy day, seeing Levi smile at me still melts my heart. So does watching him with his daddy – Matt is doing such a great job and is a wonderful dad!
8) For something that is supposed to be as “simple” and “natural” as breastfeeding, it certainly doesn’t mean that it’s easy. Especially at first.
7) Cutting baby fingernails is scary. Their little fingers are so small and the clippers so sharp!
6) Going out (no, not for anything fancy…just a quick trip to the store), has NEVER involved so much preparation or stuff to take along! I can’t imagine what our first vacation will be like! Not that I have any trouble packing quickly and efficiently and only bringing the necessary items. :-)
5) It really hurts to watch your baby cry, especially those times when nothing you do seems to help. As Matt would attest to, patience takes on an entirely new meaning.
4) A blow out diaper can occur at any time…or several times in a row. Levi’s record is 5 dirty outfits in about 3 hours. Good thing we have lots of cute clothes from the baby showers! Oh, and another note on the subject of diaper changing. I have learned that yes indeed, baby boys really can be a hazard during diaper changes. After several unexpected “showers,” and the necessary sanitization afterwards, the wall next to our changing table is now cleaner than it has ever been before!
3) Being a mom is like starting a new job, one where you are either working or are on-call 24/7.
2) Maternity leave is not a vacation. Though 12 weeks sounds like a wonderful break from work, and it is, anyone who thinks the time will be spent doing much more than recuperating and caring for a new baby is in for a surprise. I am so thankful that my job allowed me to be home with Levi those first three months. That adjustment time, particularly the first 6-8 weeks, was truly needed and appreciated. But all the extra time that I thought I would have for other things – what extra time? Who knew feeding, diapering, cuddling, and caring for a newborn would be so time consuming?
1) Being a mom is one of the greatest gifts, challenges, and opportunities God has given me. I pray that I will do a good job and make the most of every day with our little guy! I love being a family of three (plus Prince)!
(Note: Courtney was going to think of picture captions but she had to take care of Levi, so she turned this over to me. You're stuck with me after all. Ha!)
Getting ready for next year's baseball season already...
Giving mom the thumbs up that 2009 will be a better season.
Levi was pretty upset when we told him he couldn't have a pony for his three-month birthday.
Our little kung-fu warrior in his loincloth...
Taking one of his brief 3 minute naps...
What a cutie...and the baby isn't bad either!!
There's nothing better than when your baby smiles at you. Luckily I'm hilarious so I get a lot of smiles.
2 comments:
So true, every single point! I especially laughed at #6. I can't tell you how often I feel like a pack mule. The baby gear can't be helped, but you would think a 6 and and 8 year old could be counted on to carry most of their own stuff. That is to say, you could think that, but you would be wrong. ;o)
Here's hoping your transition back to work goes smoothly for you and Levi both!
Stephanie
Courtney~
Levi is clearly thriving as you and Matt develop your parenting skills! I'll be thinking of you tomorrow as you make the transition to part-time employee. I hope Levi adjusts to his new routine in a hurry. I can't wait to hug you both!
Love, Mom
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