This last Sunday our little baby boy turned seven months old. It’s so true what they say about time as a parent… it flies. As I reflect over the last half a year plus, I wanted to share some things I’ve learned from this sweet, innocent soul — my son, Boden Grey.

• 

• 

Lessons I’ve Learned from Boden

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

I’m a perfectionist at heart and with that, I like to have things in their places. A clean, tidy home. Well since having Bo I’ve realized having dishes in the sink for a couple of hours is okay. If a toy falls on the ground repetitively, I probably can get away with not washing it every time.

Allow yourself grace and acknowledge that small things are indeed, very small.

Fresh Air Does Wonders

Having Bo in July allowed for us to take plenty of walks after he was born, but then the winter came and so did the rain. I’ve learned that no matter what the weather, getting fresh air is important. For me, for him, and for Trev and Smalls.

There’s gear for every season. Just get outside.

So Does Sleep

As someone who’s always struggled with napping, becoming a mom has made me realize how important getting sleep is. When Bo was learning how to sleep, I wasn’t sleeping. Now that Bo’s sleeping well, I’m still not sleeping. Staying up late, trying to seize my alone time. But then three days later it catches up. I’m snappy. In a mood. And that’s no fun for anyone.

Getting an adequate amount of sleep will make you a better person, inside and out.

Supplementing with Formula is Fine

Breastfeeding was a tough transition for me. I feel fortunate to not have any issues with latching or supply, but the time it took to feed and pump was a big adjustment mentally. Until about months 3-4, when it got easy… and months 4-5 when my supply lessened. Now, in months 6-7, we’re supplementing with formula. After much guilt and hours of research on finding the perfect formula, I’ve learned that there’s a happy place as a family. Bo is satisfied, eating mom’s milk the first half of the day and this European formula the second half. Mom feels free while being able to still provide her boy with nutrients. Dad feels involved, preparing and feeding bottles. Smalls is enjoying eating the food Bo throws on the ground as he starts to eat solids.

There is no right or wrong. Do what you know in your heart is best for you.

Time Does Not Stand Still

Most definitely, absolutely does not. Some days will feel like the longest ever. Needing me more, more tears. Some days I’ll take Bo out of his crib, look in the mirror and think, “did you grow overnight?”. Some days he’ll do new things, like give open mouth kisses, roll over, sit up, enjoy a new food. I’ve learned ti’s ALL amazing. Every moment.

So soak up the minutes. Take pictures, but don’t forget to blink and truly take it all in.

Smiles and Laughter Cure All

There have been times when I’ve been woken up by Bo and don’t look at myself in the mirror for hours. When I do, there’s hair everywhere, a crumb on my lip from a snack. There have been blowouts when we haven’t had changes of clothes. A stream of pee that flies up out of nowhere requiring a dodge. Food in every fold of his chin and arms. An argument over something silly. But do you know what I’ve learned dissolves all frustration? A smile. A laugh. From Bo, from us.

Smiling and laughter are universal for kindness. Make it a priority to teach this to your little one.

Love Love Love

From the moment he was born, to each day when he wakes up, I’ve felt the urge to hold. To kiss. To squeeze. To love. And that, I’ve learned is what it’s all about. Showing love. All different kinds of it. And just when you feel like you are overdoing it, or have no more to give, it’s best to give some more.

Because love, quite frankly is all anyone needs. Give that love, love love.

Thank you Boden, for teaching me so many things already as your mom. I can’t wait for the lifetime of lessons ahead.

photos : tiffany kelterer