10 Baby Essentials

I didn’t think having a baby would be THAT big a deal. I mean, people do it all the time. So, I ignored most of the advice given to me while pregnant deciding to “go Zen.” This was partly because there is so much info out there and I felt overwhelmed trying to sort through it all without giving myself even worse heartburn. Now, with a five month old baby, I offer ten thoughts for first time mothers in easy reading format:

1. Don’t buy a lot of newborn size diapers and clothes before the baby is born as your baby might outgrow them in a week or not fit into them to begin with.

2. The two books you need are Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child and The Happiest Baby on the Block. Read at least the first couple of chapters before having the baby.

3. Fill your freezer with chicken pot pies, frozen soups and whatever. Seriously, unless you live in a city where take-out is easy, just do it.

4. Accept the fact you’ll need lots of help. Ask for it when you need it.

5. Make sure you like your pediatrician. Take the time to meet with candidates before the baby is born.

6. If possible, get your hair cut (a trim, nothing dramatic!), nails done and such beauty things right before the baby is born. It'll help you feel more human.

7. Take lots of pictures.

8. In the night, change diaper before feeding (so you don’t wake him/her up if she falls asleep).

9. After a month or so, even if you’re exhausted, you need to find a babysitter, take a shower, put on some earrings, and go on a date with your husband even if it’s just an afternoon walk without the baby.

10. It’s easier to dress a baby in clothes that are a little too big.

Does anyone have anything else to add (or any disagreements)?