Being a new mom can be quite the adventure. No matter if it’s your first or fifth baby, the initial weeks and months after giving birth are often filled with a rollercoaster of emotions—tears, laughter, and, yes, a whole lot of diaper changes. While there’s something wonderfully cozy about spending hours in your pajamas just gazing at your little one, stepping outside occasionally is also important. Babies are only portable and immobile for a short time, so take advantage of every moment. Plus, all those experienced moms are just waiting to shower you with unsolicited advice. Rest assured, we’ll find you!
- You could rival a Sherpa with the sheer volume of baby gear you can haul. Friends often wait for you because you’ve transformed into a human nursery.
- You’re the first one in the Target parking lot, coffee in hand, ready for your daily adventure.
- You avoid daunting tasks like trimming your baby’s nails or taking their temperature. Dressing them in anything but the softest cotton washed in the gentlest detergent is simply out of the question.
- You dedicated your entire morning to figuring out how to puree a rutabaga, and you’ll share every detail of this epic task with anyone who shows even a hint of interest. Don’t be surprised if we pretend to be fascinated—we’re just trying to stay awake!
- You can’t seem to take your eyes off your baby, convinced that if you blink, they might disappear.
- Your social media feeds are filled with countless snapshots and videos of your child. If there’s an app for sharing photos, you’re on it—don’t forget to like those posts if you want to stay in the inner circle!
- You remind us of our friend Mike, who tends to stare into space while mumbling incoherently after a few drinks.
- Every shirt you own bears an unexplained stain on the shoulder—could it be yogurt, breast milk, or perhaps a mix of both?
- You’re currently cradling a newborn.
- You feel completely at ease discussing your episiotomy, chapped nipples, and your little one’s latest diaper output with anyone who asks.
- You can often be found at the local zoo, earnestly pointing out animals to your baby, blissfully unaware that they may not actually be able to see them yet. We won’t bring it up—better not to risk the wrath of a sleep-deprived new mom!
- If we pause for too long, you instinctively try to swaddle us—yes, that includes your pet!
- You’ve been known to find a stray Cheerio in your shirt and munch on it without a second thought.
- Even when your child isn’t around, you’re still swaying gently in line at the grocery store.
- If all else fails, just look for the woman in the cape—that’s you, superhero mama!
This article first appeared on May 6, 2016. If you’re looking for more insights, check out our other blog posts, like this one on privacy policy.
In summary, being a new mom is a whirlwind of experiences, from hauling baby gear to sharing every mundane detail of your day. But through it all, you will find joy in the little moments, and remember, you’re not alone on this adventure. For more information about the journey of parenthood, visit Make a Mom and News Medical, two excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.