Surviving The First Year

Whew! We did it. Our little man just had his first birthday and we celebrated surviving one year of being parents. We have survived numerous road trips. As well as, grappling with my postpartum body image and accomplishing so much with my breastfeeding journey. I learned how to do SO MANY things all while holding a baby. Looking back on this year, I’ve come to know that nothing can truly prepare you for the first year of motherhood. It is exhausting, overwhelming, and a strange resemblance to the life of a dairy cow. Did I mention exhausting? It’s enough to pull your hair out (DON’T! It will start falling out momentarily. Thanks hormones!).

 

So how did we possibly make it a year? Here is a list of things I’ve learned in the past 365 days.

1. I was created to be his mom. This fact alone makes me capable no matter what we face. Your little one is God’s creation. Cherish and make memories with your baby. Within the blink of an eye, this phase is over and they are learning something new and headed off to college. Take pleasure in those snuggles.

 

2. My husband is the most remarkable man I’ve ever known. I couldn’t have made it through this year without him. Might I say, fatherhood looks good on that man. Take time to re-connect with your spouse. Schedule date nights, or even a movie night on the couch. Don’t forget your spouse, or yourself. Exercise, read a book, or just take a few moments to sit by yourself quietly.

 

3. GET OUT OF THE HOUSE! I promise you this is a good idea FOR EVERYONE. In return you have the potential to make mama friends. It is rewarding to have these relationships and women in your corner who are experiencing the same roller coaster as you. With a community, “village”, or “mom tribe” we can thrive. Shout out to my mom gang! So thankful for them.

4. Motherhood requires courage, self-sacrifice, determination, bravery, and creativity. I learned that we can survive on very little sleep. I didn’t mention anything about it being glamorous, but it can be done. “They” say “sleep when the baby sleeps”. Well, when do I get everything else done? Don’t sweat the small stuff. The dishes will get done eventually. Take every day in baby steps. Literally. Keep the germs at bay, do the laundry you need to survive and just relax and enjoy your little one.

5. Remember where your worth comes from when you get a glance of your postpartum body. Give yourself grace. You made a human!! You are powerful. Take time for your body, whatever that looks like for you. Appreciate it, but most of all; love it, because it gave you an amazingly beautiful gift.

 

We made it! And you will, too. Hang in there. Enjoy the ride. Time is fleeting.

Happy Birthday Finley!