When Maverick was born a year ago, I couldn't even fathom just how quickly the year would fly by. When I held his tiny, warm body in my arms for the first time, I never imagined how big he would grow. Big changes happen in a year!! As Maverick grew physically and made leaps developmentally, the Husband and I went through our own growth as new parents. It has been an emotional roller coaster and a steep learning curve. But, it was never impossible and we did quite well. I am proud of us! So, high five!
As the one year mark crept upon us, I really started taking long moments to pause and think about how important this first year of baby has been. It has truly changed us in so many ways. Our lives will never go back to the time before and I don't think I mind one bit. Sure, it is way harder and I get way less sleep. But Maverick was made to be in our lives right now & life pre-Mav is just a sweet memory. Life is so much more interesting and exciting with a little one in it! So, I wanted to share a few things I have learned as a new mama (and, I am always learning and growing!).
➢It's a little scary in the beginning to care for such a fragile little being! But, it really does get easier as the days roll on & you start to get in a rhythm quicker than you think!
➢No one, I mean NO one knows your baby better than you! This one was hard for me to get, but I soon realized that I was the best judge when it came to all things Maverick. Even a seasoned mama of five kids (hello, Nana) isn't an expert when it comes to my babe.
➢That being said (see above), it was difficult at first for me to take advise or try things that others told me might work. I was afraid of looking like a failure. But, sometimes older moms do have good ideas that work and can be life savers! Basically, it's ok to try something you didn't think of...it doesn't mean you are clueless.
➢Every once in a while I have a brief moment in which I sorta miss the spontaneity of my old life. Visions of dashing out the door for a late dinner or packing an over-night bag for an impromptu camping trip will dance in my head. But, as soon as the vision appears it vanishes. I think this is pretty normal. Right?
➢Now that Mav is a big 1 year old, I can honestly say that each day is getting funner and funner! I really like this stage. Sure, it is the most exhausting (maybe even more than the first few weeks) to run after a walking kinda-toddler who gets into everything! But his big personality really makes up for it!
➢Breastfeeding may have been one of the hardest parts of this whole year. I never felt so emotional, vulnerable and raw as I did as I learned to breastfeed my baby! Whew, it was tough. But, it also became like second nature eventually. Now, I can do it with my eyes closed. It's very weird how at one moment something is so strange & difficult but in a few months it is just part of the rhythm.
➢Don't google anything! It will be the end of you I promise! If you want to stay up all night worrying that your baby has some weird very rare skin rash, then go ahead, google away. It's all about the instincts! Truly. You'll see, they are real (I wasn't sure mama instincts existed, but I have them now).
➢Finding time for my relationship with the Hubs is challenging. But I am learning that it is important. I feel refreshed and happier when I have spent some quality time with him. It makes you a better mother when the love between your partner & yourself can shine. This is one will continue to work on.
➢Finally, having a baby is the hardest thing I have ever done. Duh! I never knew so many emotions could exist! I have felt them all this year. My whole being has changed-my body, my mind, my heart! None of them will ever be the same. And, for that I am grateful. Because I think I am a more complete person now that Maverick is here. I feel more sure and confident about myself as well. Having a baby can give you a courage and power you never knew was inside of you. It's pretty darn cool.
...there are loads more I have learned. I mean, I could go on forever! Basically, it has been a wonderful year spent watching a little human grow. Nothing is cooler than that! I am so very excited for this next year and all the wild adventures that await my family of three!
Maverick on the move, just as he really took off walking-December 2012 Paso Robles, CA
♥
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