10 things I've learned with baby #3

1. Never take a shower for granted!

2. Make the easy, make-ahead meals before baby is born, especially if you're nursing. You'll thank yourself.

3. Have easy, grab and go snacks that are nutritious and HIGH in fiber. Trust me, easy BMs are a blessing.

4. Try not to use the stairs much for the first week. Set up "shop" downstairs.

5. Get water any chance you get. Don't get a chance? Make it. Water is important.

6. Go outside with baby for even just a few minutes, especially if it is sunny out. Fresh air is a godsend.

7. Let baby sleep in bassinette next to bed, not with you. I thought I learned this with C, but here I am again with a baby that doesn't sleep well unless held or sleeping next to me. I don't mind, but I think it is important for me to have non-baby moments. Plus, I sleep better when she's not in the bed. I sleep less, but better.

8. Sometimes it is better to just do things yourself rather than relying on others to help. For one thing, it is sure to get done and another is I feel like I accomplished something during the day.

9. Take off all nail polish before giving birth...otherwise it will be chipped and crazy looking after baby and you'll not have time to take care of them. Luckily I did this this time.

10. Get/make a baby sling. On rough days, it helps to have free hands to do household chores while baby sleeps. I used mine today and was able to do laundry, make dinner, empty dishwasher, & clean litter box!

Kathryn in her I love Daddy shirt from Gap. :-)