I learned 52 lessons in my 52 Weeks of Being Mom

It’s been a year since the doctor proudly proclaimed “it’s a baby boy” and my entire life changed. That’s 12 months, 52 weeks, 365 days or 525,600 minutes of being “mom.” It has been one heck of a roller coaster and journey, and to reflect as I came upon this milestone, I started jotting down some of the lessons I learned this year. Some I never wanted to know, some I am so incredibly grateful for, some make me laugh, others make me cry, regardless, they have all changed and impacted me in ways I never anticipated.

1. They mean it when they say your perception of love changes the moment you have a child.
2. Whatever you think joy is, it is nothing compared to what you will feel the second they lay that baby in your arms.
3. You thought pregnancy hormones were bad? Just wait for the “just had a baby hormones.” Holy smokes. 
4. The people who love you the most still have the power to hurt your feelings. It is important to separate intent from outcome.
5. “Normal” is a stupid word. 
6. When someone asks if they can help, accept it. Tell them something you need. Use direct statements. I could use some help with laundry. It would be nice to have a meal brought over. Can you stop by to watch the baby so I can quickly shower?
7. “No.” It is a complete sentence and you don’t have to justify it.
8. The world will disappoint you; try to love it anyways.
9. Self-care is so important.
10. You won’t kill the baby if you take five extra minutes to pick him up in the morning.
11. Whatever is going to make it easier, do it. 
12. You are stronger than you think.
13. It’s okay to be mad/sad/frustrated/etc. Feel it, don’t live there.
14. Quality over quantity: this applies to friends, baby outfits and bottles of wine.
15. There is actual physical pain involved with heartbreak.
16. Your heart is almost as resilient as your child is.
17. Baby poop gets everywhere. Everywhere.
18. There is no such thing as too many spit rags.
19. It doesn’t matter how old you are, your parents still have the power to make everything better.
20. Starbucks is actually a mom’s best friend. 
21. You really do forget the pain of labor a few months after birth and will be ready for another baby.
22. There is no such thing as “laundry day.” Laundry is constant, always.
23. Doctors don’t actually know it all.
24. Mommy instinct is real – go with it.
25. Nurses are superheroes dressed in scrubs.
26. The Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin cafeteria has really good chicken quesadillas.
27. I have learned that people say stupid stuff. Ignore them.
28. Sleep when you can, WHENEVER you can.
29. Find someone in your life that will continue to call you by your name, keep them close. It is important to remember your other identity aside from mom.
30. Life’s tough, get a helmet.
31. It’s okay to cry. Also, crying can be really cathartic. When you feel the need to cry, do it and don’t apologize for it.
32. A bad day only lasts 24 hours.
33. You can’t always be waiting for the other shoe to drop.
34. Thomas Rhett Radio on Pandora is the perfect soundtrack to everyday life.
35. Time is a thief.
36. It’s okay to need a break from your kid.
37. Babies are intoxicating – their skin, their smell, their sweet little rolls – they are just perfect.
38. Thank you is the weakest phrase in the English language. It doesn’t even come close to accurately expressing gratitude.
39. I have learned that grief comes in waves.
40. Social media lies, don’t let it get to you.
41. Comparison will only lead to grief, anxiety, worry, stress. Don’t do it.
42. If you can close the door at the end of the night and be happy with what is inside, you are doing just fine.
43. I learned it’s okay to be afraid.
44. Pinot Noir. Ben & Jerry’s. Long, hot showers. Comfy pajamas – in that order.
45. When your baby falls asleep in your arms and you think “I should put him down and clean the kitchen,” don’t. Hold him. Stare at him. Memorize this moment. Tuck it away for when you are sitting at work, missing your kid. These moments are fleeting, don’t miss them.
46. Stop checking the baby apps that keep telling you your baby should be walking or talking or eating crackers. Just stop. Your kid will show you when they’re ready to do those things and it is okay if it doesn’t correlate with the app.
47. Breathe. In, out, in, out. Just breathe.
48. Find those you trust your child with. Ask them to stay for a day. Take a date night with the husband or get your hair done or simply take a nap. Recognize that you will need time away from that sweet angel and know that it is okay.
49. Stop beating yourself up (we know you are).
50. You’re a really good mom.
51. A year is no time at all.
52. Your kid(s) is (are) the very best thing on this planet. Enjoy every moment.