Elisha and I went to Katy Fifita's baby shower today and while we were there Katy asked us all for some parenting advice. Mine wasn't that great but it got me thinking about what advice I would want to pass on to my children one day for when they become first time parents. Some of the advice is what other women said at the shower but I totally agree. I'm sure I'll add to this list but I wanted to write a few things down that I wish I would've known or done.
1. Give yourself a break and don't feel guilty about it. People want to help so let them. Don't feel bad about leaving your kids with a babysitter for an hour or two to go have some alone time. Even if it's just to go back home to catch up on some sleep or going to get a pedicure. Parenting is hard work and you deserve a break every once in a while.
2. Remember your marriage. I wasn't very good at this when I became a Mom because I thought my whole world was supposed to revolve around Elina. Kids, remember that you were a wife/husband before you became a mom/dad so you have to do things together like you did before the baby came. Go on date nights without the baby often. I promise, the baby will be just fine without you for a couple of hours.
3. Sleep train your kids. Elina and Talanoa were not sleep trained at all and I am dreading it now. Hahaha! I'm sure they will turn out just fine but I'm just trying to give you guys a heads up. I like to think that I would be a little more sane and I would be much more rested if I did this. I'm planning to do this with lucky #3. Lol. And I know that some of my kids will choose not to listen to this one but you can't say I didn't warn you ;)
4. Do what works for you and your spouse. I'm sure I'll be so annoying sometimes trying to tell you guys what's best for you and your kids but honestly, do whatever is best for you and your spouse. I promise I mean well. As long as you are navigating this parenting thing together and are on the same page, you'll be fine.
5. Relax. No one expects you to know everything right away. The great thing about parenting is that it's a work in progress. You will make mistakes along the way but that's just a part of life. Learn from them and move on. Focus on what you can do better next time and be positive.
bravo, well said, way to go, youre super!
ReplyDeletedo i sense some sarcasm ashley? hahahaha! we need to come to a game and visit! you know how die hard vili is about those raiders!
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