Motherhood: What I learned about myself in the first year (#3)

Dear Readers, This series of my blog will focus on "lessons learned" as we close in on year one. With nostalgia and introspection often comes learning and growth.

Over these next few blogs, I'll share my most important learning moments. Truthful and personal, as I have always promised my readers. My intention is they will help other women, even in a small way. Maybe they're just starting this journey like I was last year. Maybe they've been through this a few times but still have shaky and vulnerable moments. Even though this journey is incredibly personal, I've found that new mothers lean on each other. They often share similar experiences and just want to know they are not alone with their feelings. Remember, the village?

If I had an honest conversation with my pregnant self, what would I say about the first year of motherhood? #3: You will be blessed with an easy baby. Consider yourself lucky. It's true. Evie is "easy" to care for and a low maintenance baby. I deliberately use quotes around the word 'easy' and say that kind of tongue-and-cheek because having a new baby is life-altering and demands all of your energy all of the time. However, we are very fortunate to have a little girl who adapts well to new situations (ex. dietary and sleeping arrangements) and self-soothes very well. She does not require my constant attention or entertainment. This is a very good thing as I have a lot to balance during the day with my other (paid) job at the humane society, my blog writing and Griswold's needs (our dog). I often give thanks through prayer for getting a child that is relatively low-maintenance and accommodating to my lifestyle. I have spent enough time with other new parents to acknowledge that I have it easier than most new parents. Evie has slept well in her own room since her first night home. She eats whatever we give her without much or any fussiness. She is comfortable staying with family and friends, while we are away. She has been very healthy and does not pick up illnesses easily. In fact, this week was the first time she has had a "sick" day in almost a year. Her bottom teeth are coming in and she had a low-grade fever, mild congestion and sleepier than usual. The silver lining is we get to enjoy a very snuggly baby for a few days. We got a four-leaf clover with our only baby. I don't take this for granted and enjoy each day as they come. What have I learned about myself? Simply put, I am blessed to have Evie.