Stinky diapers are for daddies.

The day Ella & Sydney were born I cried.  A lot.  Not because I'm weak - but because there were 20 fingers, 20 toes, beautiful round heads, and were healthy.  Someone is looking out for us.

 

Kids are hard.  Harder than math and even harder than physics.  There are no manuals and nothing is more terrifying in life than the first night at home from the hospital.  Ask for help.

 

There is nothing better than giving your child the last bottle of the day while they fall asleep in your lap or on your shoulder. 

 

Stinky diapers are for daddies.

 

Speaking of daddies, teamwork is key.  Look out for each other.  Give each other breaks.  Always have each other's backs.  Always.

 

Buy a big car.  Bigger than you think you need.  Car seats, strollers, backpacks and toys take more room than you'll ever know.  Drive it like it's a sports car and make no apologies.  It's carrying the most precious cargo you'll ever have.

 

Plan all public outings like studying for final exams.  It's going to be hard, time consuming and you will be exhausted when completed.  But do it, as hard as it is, just get out there.

 

When the plastic phone rings - you answer it.

 

The small things are the big things.  Their first giggle, saying "da-da", the first steps, and snuggles.  Don't miss it.  Make sure you have your priorities straight.

 

Everyone has advice.  Everyone.  Filter out what works best for you.

 

Laugh with your babies and have epic dance parties.

 

When you get a chance to spend time along with your spouse, do it.  Remember who you were before babies.  And when you finally do get a break, you'll only care about seeing and talking to (and about) the babies.

 

 

 

It's you and your spouse's job to be an example for your children.  Teach them how to love and respect.  Show them they deserve the world.

 

No matter what happened at work that day, you'll forget all about it when you walk in and see the two biggest smiles.  Your children are genuinely thrilled to see you, and make no judgment.

 

You become an expert in books with very few words and big pictures.



If your babies are crying, they are breathing.

 

When you wonder if you're doing a good job and if your children are okay, of course they are.  This is life.  It doesn't get any better than this.