The Very First Time
Give Yourself Grace
"There is no way to juggle it all as a parent, whether you're a first-time or third-time or fifth-time parent. The key is to believe that whatever you are doing or getting done, you are doing the best that you can for your family. Give yourself grace, and don't be afraid to ask for support and help."
- Jenny Yarbrough, Nashville, Tennessee
Use Your Village
"I didn't. That's why we moved across the country and enlisted the help of family. Family is priceless! I could cry to my mom (and grandma) like no one else on earth. They love my children as much as I do, and I trust them to help me raise them. It takes a village for sure."
- Kristel Acevedo, Miami, Florida
Do What It Takes
"Do what it takes to survive. The answer won't be found in any parenting book. I napped when she napped, ate when she ate and let her sleep in our bed."
- Thena Reading-Franssen, Columbia, Missouri
Learn to Say No
"I had to learn that sometimes I had to say no to things. I had to put my child, my husband and myself first even if that meant disappointing others. It was no easy task!"
- Ashlea Walton, Stillwater, Oklahoma
Find Balance
"As a first-time mom, I had to find a life balance. My baby boy adjusted to our routine and schedule. It may not have been a traditional 'in the bed by 7:30-ish' idea, but it was what worked for our family. We were flexible and adapted as needed. Kids are resilient."
- Donna Jones, Mooresville, North Carolina
Take "Me" Time
"I made it through with patience, taking some 'me' time, investing in the help of my husband and using family as we needed to. I really savor the times we are in because babies just grow too fast. Sometimes the days feel like forever, but when I look back on them they are so short."
- Amanda Hannah, Kansas City, Missouri
