Sadly, after we give birth, there isn't a rule book we're sent home with; something that tells us: "Do do this, but be sure not to do that." We pretty much just blindly figure it out as we go. Trial and error, as they say.
That said, there are a few unwritten rules of motherhood we all seem to innately follow. They aren't anything we were ever taught or told, they're just things that naturally have come to us after becoming mothers.
Here are 20 rules of motherhood.
Image via Chev Wilkinson/Corbis
Saying Goodbye
Never leave the house without saying goodbye … even if there are a few tears.
Going to Sleep
Don’t ever go to sleep until the last child is safely in the house … no matter how old they are.
Kisses
Give no less than 50 kisses a day to children who will still let you.
Important Words
Say "I love you" at LEAST once every day.
Yum
Ice cream is always an acceptable lunch on birthdays.
It's Okay to Give In
Some battles just aren't worth fighting.
Mom Vs. Friend
Sometimes, it’s more important to be your kid’s mom than her friend.
Sleeping Babes
It’s okay to watch your baby sleeping … even if they’re not a baby.
Mama's Medicine
Sometimes wine IS the answer.
Consistency
Consistency isn’t always easy, but it’s crucial.
Stock Up
Never leave the house without a snack.
"Don't Make Me Repeat Myself ..."
You WILL have to repeat yourself.
Who Cares What They Say?
It’s okay to hold your baby all day long.
Mama Knows Best
Usually, your gut instinct IS right.
You're Only as Happy ...
You’re only as happy as your saddest kid.
Nap Time
Nap time is never long enough.
Healthy Meals?
In a pinch, pancakes are a perfectly-nutritional dinner.
Oh, the Mess!
You can never have enough burp clothes in the beginning.
Alone Time
A night out alone once in a while is crucial to sanity.
Photo Mania
There’s never enough storage on your phone.
