The first few months: lessons learned

Adrian and I had a baby this past June. She is delightful and a daily joy in our lives. In the large scheme of things, having her has been completely rewarding and fulfilling bla bla bla, but, let's not kid ourselves, the first weeks were hard. Frustrating. Exhausting. Emotionally draining. I thought that my life would never be the same, and not in a good way. But, every day, Adrian and I discovered ways to make our lives a bit easier or learned the hard way what not to do. I also remember some minor epiphanies. I thought that I would share some of what I learned for my friends who are pregnant or have children. Hopefully, you'll pass on what you've learned as well.

Here is a starter list, and I'll elaborate on each point in separate posts.

• Plan for 6 weeks
• Eat breakfast
• Get help with breastfeeding quickly
  
• Request food
  
• Watch and listen to your baby
• Dads are great!
• Schedules, no. Routines, yes!
• Beware the orthodoxy of others
• No fear