She's Here!!!

Well, Lauren Avery was born on July 21st. I did it! It is hard to believe in some ways that she will be 3 weeks old this Monday. In other ways, it feels like it has been forever! Adjusting to mommyhood was a lot harder than I ever thought it would be. It could be the type of person I am....those who know me well know that I am a little bit of a perfectionist. I beat myself up if I feel like I am not doing something well. Lets just say I've found a million things to beat myself up over and worry about as a mommy. I am working on it, I promise!!! I thought I would list a couple of the things I have learned so far:

#1 - There is no love like the love a parent has for a child. It is all consuming and has given me a little better insight on how God must feel about us.
#2 - Don't change a baby the first time you hear the poop noise! Lauren has gone through several diapers in one diaper changing session because I jumped the gun. She needs time to get things done! I've been squirted more times than I'd like to remember!
#3 - Take time for yourself and your family. One of the hardest things has been getting to
figure out what our new normal is. It required me shutting myself off from the world for a bit to get a feel for Lauren and what she needs. It was worth it and I am feeling much more confident!
#4 - I can survive without 8 hours of sleep. I don't like it, but I can do it. I've also learned to take advantage of her naps and at least try to rest my eyes when she goes down.
#5 - Take each day or minute at a time. It is way too overwhelming to think about the next day, weekend, or big event. Sometimes it is way too overwhelming to even think about the very next second. I am really learning to be in the now. I have to slow down and take it step by step.
#6 - The advice of trusted friends is gold! I can't tell you how many phone calls I've made and emails I've sent to friends I trust completely. They have given great advice and provided strategies to try with my little baby when I've been at a loss. Probably more importantly though, they have given encouragement to a frazzled mom! Thank you!
#7 - The feeling of holding a tiny person who relies on you for everything close to your chest is amazing and makes the late night feedings sweeter.
#8 - Nursing can be hard, but it is worth it. Keep at it!!!

It has been a crazy life the past three weeks. I wouldn't change it for the world. I am so thankful that Lauren is here, that she is healthy, and that she is mine.