What I've learned and my advice...

As every first time mom-to-be you spend so much time wondering how life is going to be with a baby and whether you will be good at it. Over the past 3 months I've learned so much. Here is some helpful advice for you new moms-to-be.

What I've learned over the past 3 months...

1. Taking care of an infant is all about trial and error. Since they can't tell you what is wrong, just keep trying different things until you figure it out.
2. The first couple months are very tough (at least for me). The adjustment to a new life was a VERY hard struggle for me but things DO get better. Everyone kept telling me it would and I really didn't think it would happen but it is!
3. If someone offers to help you out...take it!!! Life becomes so overwhelming in those first couple months and getting a break for yourself is a necessity!
4. Communicate!!! If you are getting frustrated or if something is on your mind...tell your husband. It's so important to work as a team and talk about your issues. No one is a mind reader so make sure to express those feelings. Your marriage will get so much stronger if you do this.
5. Don't let other mothers get you down for not doing what they think is right for your baby. I got a lot of disappointed looks and comments from other mothers when they found out that I was not breast feeding. Only you and your family know what is right. Be proud of your decisions.
6. If you feel that you are struggling with postpartum depression...seek help immediately! I thought I could fight through it but needed help. Now I am feeling so much better and enjoying my life with my son.
7. Getting out of the house with baby is a must do! I try to get out once a day with Keaton even if it is just to run to the bank. You will go stir crazy in the house if you don't get out.
8. Enjoy every second with your baby (even those middle of the night feedings)! That saying "they grow up so fast" is so true. It is absolutely amazing how much Keaton has changed over the past 3 months.
9. If you can't get the dishes washed for one day, it's ok!! Household chores definitely take a back seat once you have an infant. I'm lucky to have a clean freak for a husband so he makes sure to keep things cleaned up but some days it can't get done and that's ok.
10. Don't ignore your pets. Del has been adjusting well but I definitely don't have as much time to spend with him as I did. At times I look at him and start crying because I feel that he is sad because I can't be with him all the time. I make sure to spend some time with him every day so he knows that he is still loved. He was my first baby and always will be.

I know there is so much more that I could say but that is some basic advice for new moms-to-be. Just know that it is tough in the beginning but with the help of friends and family, you will get through it. There is nothing better than raising a child!