Everything I Need to Know in Life, I Learned My First Year as a Mama

As 2011 draws to a close, I thought it fitting to reflect on this past year - the ups and downs and what I have learned. This year has certainly been an eventful one. And while not everyone would consider my life "exciting", I can assure you, it is far from dull! Anyone that knows me, knows that I am passionate and can be outspoken. I hope that this year I have learned to give more grace, to be intentional, and to love unconditionally. Here is what my precious son and being his mama has taught me:

1. Sleep solves almost every "crisis". Even if it doesn't solve it, it helps you deal with the situation better.

2. Priorities change, and that is actually healthy. Filter all your decisions through your priorities to have a happy life.

3. The people in your life may change, or at least their significance in your life at any given moment. Family is made up of people that you love and that love you, regardless of how long you've known them or actual relation.

4. Somethings CAN wait (laundry, dishes, facebook, showering, peeing, etc), while others can't (throw up, a crying baby, a blow out poop, watching your baby sleep, playing peek-a-boo, telling someone that you love them).

5. All of us are doing the best that we can with what we have. We all want to be better (I hope!).

6. Joy is not found in things, but in moments, smiles, hugs and memories.

7. Defeat is not in failing, but in giving up or never trying in the first place. Falling down is inevitable, but getting back up again is a choice.

8. There is no "normal"! Don't judge yourself by other people or their standards. Determine what you believe in and then remain committed to that.

9. Find what you are good at and sell out to that.

10. You can never say "I love you" too much. You can never tell someone enough how important they are. But never stop trying...

11. Everything is temporary. Good and bad, it all changes. Just when you think you've got it all figured out, here comes another curve ball!

12. Be flexible. Be spontaneous.

13. You are stronger and more capable than you realize. Stretch yourself to see what your limits truly are. Never sell yourself short.

14. LAUGH. And then laugh more. Happiness is remembered like a glow that surrounds you.

15. Set limits. And then stick to them. Even when it hurts.

16. Be intentional. Have a purpose in all that you do.

17. Give grace. Every person you meet is fighting a battle. We are all doing the best that we can and until you've walked a year in some one's sleep-deprived, post-partum, separation-anxiety, guilt-riddled (at times) shoes, you have no right to judge them. Maybe you would do things differently - you'll have your chance.

18. Acceptance and sensitivity will get you much farther in life than beating someone over the head with your opinions. Unsolicited advice is criticism.

19. Having a schedule (that is flexible) is vital. Try to stay on track, but let it go if things need to change.

20. Always keep a snack, some tissues and a toy in your purse. You never know when any of this will come in handy (and not just for your baby!). Basically, be prepared. ALL.THE.TIME. For anything!

21. When you're stressed, it rubs off on others. Take time to take care of you so that you have more to give.

22. Never let someone make you feel inferior or embarrassed of your decisions. If you believe in what you are doing - say so! Just because "everyone" does things one way, doesn't make it right or best. It is impossible to please everyone all the time, so stop trying and do what you know in your heart is right for you.

23. Sharing can be hard. But you have to.

24. Be fearless. Be bold. Try something new. You never know what you will like or what works if you don't try.

25. God is in EVERYTHING. Especially the little things. If you don't see that, I can't relate to you.

26. God uses the least of us to teach us the biggest lessons. No one and nothing is too small to matter.

27. Let go. Trust yourself. Trust God, He'll be up all night anyway.

28. Always act, never react. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and count to 5 before responding in anger. Chances are, you will regret it later and then it's too late. Words wound deeper than weapons. They also heal and uplift. Use them wisely.

29. You will miss this one day. So stop wishing it away - good or bad. Enjoy ALL the moments of your life. Even the trials. They form you into the person you are destined to be.

30. Love is an action word. It is doing, saying, feeling, showing, staying, hugging, working, growing, trying, overcoming. It is constant - in good times and bad. It is present. It is consuming. It is beautiful. It is important.

I once heard a quote about being a mother that said being a mother was like having your heart walk around outside of your body. I thought I understood that before Gideon was born. Now, I fully comprehend it. With every great blessing comes great responsibility. I thank God everyday for the blessing He has given me and pray for guidance to fulfill my responsibility.

Happy New Year! May 2012 be blessed!