First Holiday with Baby

       The Holiday Season is coming.  It can be a fun and magical time, but when it's your first Holidays with your baby, it can bring extra stress.  Keeping it in perspective will help you navigate gracefully.
 
       *First and foremost, remember:   it will not always be like this! *
        This is just one Holiday Season--not a reflection on you as a parent or a person.  Enjoy!  Your little one will have no conscious memory of it anyway!              

      *Give yourself permission to take SHORTCUTS!  
Be strategic with your time, energy and resources so that you won't be too exhausted to cherish it.....Question everything: what is necessary and what can be skipped?  (Or at least tailored to be more mom/baby friendly.)  If it's something that makes you happy, go for it.  If it's something you do out of obligation, brainstorm other options.

    *It's okay to nest in.  
Many new moms find large groups overwhelming, especially in the first few weeks.  Find a diplomatic out, and fib if you have to.  ("The doctor said we can't have the baby around so many people....in a house with pets....etc.")  

    If some people might be disappointed to not see you at larger gatherings, offer an alternative visit at a later date.  Your primary commitment is doing what is best for you and your baby.  Often, the hidden consequence of overdoing it and trying to please everyone else can be a baby exposed to colds and germs unnecessarily or mom developing exhaustion or an infection, etc.  

          The best gift you can give your baby is a CALM, HEALTHY MAMA!  
​
          I'll be wishing you a peaceful holiday where you hopefully feel nourished and supported by your family and community and able to truly enjoy this season with your baby.