Ten Things I would tell a New Mom...

1. You will save an unbelievable amount of money if you buy your baby items off craigslist or at garage sales. (The big baby stores are overwhelming anyway...)
2. Breastfeeding is possible for any woman. Give it a try, and stick to it for at least a few months. It takes a little while to get the hang of it, but it will be very worth it! Also, contact your local LeLeche League for support.
3. Consider Cloth diapers. You will see that there are many options out there today, and it's easy! It also saves money and trips to the store. Not to mention saving more garbage bags of waste than you want to count.
4. Making your own baby food is easy and fun! You will find that it's enjoyable to go to your local market and pick out fresh food to make up your own mixes with.
5. Get out and meet other Mothers. It's not only encouraging, but good for you to spend time with other women who can relate.
6. Eat healthy and exercise. I know this sounds like a no-brainer, but your milk supply will be better equipped with vitamins and nutrients if you do. You will also lose those baby pounds faster.
7. Keep it simple. The less you have to maintain at home, the more time you will have for your baby. Crockpot meals are great for getting through those fussy evenings with baby.
8. Don't worry about spoiling your baby. You will have plenty of discipline to deal with later. Make a sling to wear your baby. You will bond so close and your baby will be comforted by your touch. Look up websites about babywearing for more information. In my opinion, they grow up too fast. Hold that baby and kiss em' as much as you want to.
9. Teach your baby how to sign. If you want, make up your own simple signs. Believe me, when they hit that age that they aren't able to verbally communicate, but want to tell you something, you'll be glad you taught signing. Some say that babies who sign, speak with more vocabulary sooner.
10. Last but not least, enjoy your little blessing. It just goes too fast. Kiss em', hug em, and tell them you love em'.