10 things I've learned about being a new dad
November 11th, 2008 by Andy
- Babies are individuals, but they need you like they need air. Too much time away, and it’s like not being able to breathe.
- Babies are like air to you, as well. Too much time away from baby, and it is like not being able to breathe.
- There are different types of cries. Cries of pain. Cries of hunger. Cries of loneliness. Cries of fear. In short order, you learn each one.
- Babies have no idea what their body is doing, only the feelings it gives them when something happens. For example, Lily will pull her own hair and then cry from the pain.
- There is no difference between day and night to a baby. In fact, your night may be the time that she is most active. So, don’t plan on sleeping at night, you may get your most rest during the day.
- If you don’t force yourself to eat, drink, and sleep, you won’t. It is important to make sure that you do so, even if your body doesn’t feel hungry or thirsty yet – be preemptive. You never know when the baby is going to be awake for the next four hours needing you to hold her. Can you wait that long?
- There is little as gratifying as seeing your baby smile at you. Whether she is actually smiling at you, or just experiencing the relief of a good poop, it still is a wonder to see her smile.
- Babies are stronger than you think. Lily kicks and pushes off me so forcefully sometimes, that I need to hold on tight for her not to leap away. She also lifted her whole head and torso completely off me the other day when I was holding her. It surprised me and she almost fell off with the change in balance.
- Babies need to eat. They don’t care if you are in Borders, at a friend’s house, or driving the car. All they know is that they want food! So, if you are a breastfeeder – be prepared to whip-it-out and give her some milk. Don’t be modest. Carry around a small blanket to cover up though, otherwise all teenage boys in the vicinity would need to go take a cold shower.
- Babies make everything you do worth it. Even the hardest days at work, the most humbling moments with your boss or clients, it is all worth it for her.