Four Months Ago...

...I had a few hours old baby snuggled up next to me. Audrey was born at 6:28am, and laid awake in my arms for a couple of hours soaking in her surroundings before we both went to sleep. Through the first week of Audrey's life I made a list of all the wonderful things people did that made bringing this sweet little girl into the world. I was reminded of this list when I saw this article posted by a friend on facebook yesterday. It's so important to celebrate each special spirit joining our lives, but here are some pointers on how to make the celebrations easier on both momma and baby.

how to help mamma with a new baby

1. When you visit over a meal time, bring the meal to share with the mom and her family. **Update: And, bring the meal in disposable containers so the new Mama isn't trying to figure out whose Tupperware is sitting on her counter a month later. Thanks Tanis for the tip!**

2.Don't overstay your welcome. 30 minutes is a long enough visit


3.Don't pick up baby without washing your hands and asking mom first


4.Ask what needs to be done around the house, then do it


5.Pay attention to the older kiddos - the baby only really wants its mother, and the older kids are hurt by the lack of attention


6.New moms need rest; if you're monopolizing those helping her, then she's not getting the rest she needs. Pay attention, and again don't stay long


7.Call before you head over - it may not be a good time after all, or there may be something that is needed and you could pick it up on the way


8.Space out visitors. Even if they're staying for a short amount of time, if mom isn't getting enough time to rest in between its not good


9. AND For goodness sakes, don't bounce the baby! They're newborns; snuggle them don't jiggle them

Count down...

Time has been flying by, increasing in speed each day except for the days full of screaming. Those days drag on and on to remind me to savor the good time. My little baby Darius is now my big boy helper, my Mr.Eli is faster and more furious than a tornado, yet as gentle as a lamb...sometimes...and this baby girl in my belly reminds me daily that she is getting bigger and stronger as well. With just over ten weeks until baby girls arrival I've decided to make a top ten list of items to be completed in then next ten weeks. Here we go!

proof this belly exists

1. Compile and submit Eli's baby book for printing - it's a doozy, but seriously how long can you put off such an important project? Apparently two years.
2. Plan and decorate baby girls nursery.
3. Finish the super hero bedroom for the boys.
4. Choose and finish a quilt design for baby girl.
5. Finish decorating the master bedroom.
6. Walk everyday to build up strength and endurance for the marathon to come - yep, I'm talking to you labor.
7. Enjoy yoga three times a week, also for labor prep.
8. Sort through the boys toys and donate a bunch to charity.
9. Spend time with friends every month [and yes I know its pathetic that 'spending time with friends' made it onto a to do list; but really if I don't plan/prioritize it, it's not going to happen.]
10. Have a family over for dinner every month.

I know the next ten weeks are going to fly by, but at least I know they'll be productive weeks as I tick these big projects off one at a time! So excited for the boys room especially - its already looking so good...except for where Eli helped me paint. That part needs some TLC haha.