Thomas in camouflage.

Me in standard issue Mom gear: Yoga Pants!

I’m still in battle mode. Becoming a parent for the first time is all about survival. Of course, I adore our sweet little baby boy. But keeping him alive and well is hard work. Somewhere in between the constant feedings, diaper changes, spit-up patrol and baby baths, my husband and I are attempting to function like normal humans on an inhumane schedule. The struggle is real. Here are some examples of how life has changed in ways I never expected:

• First and foremost, we don’t sleep. From the day Thomas made his big debut into this world, I have not gotten a good night's sleep. Not one. Seriously. I have never been so sleep deprived in my life. So when people tell you to sleep all you can before baby arrives – believe them!

• Nursing is a second job. Don’t get me wrong, it’s the best thing for your baby and an incredibly wonderful way to bond, but it is work. Nursing, pumping, storing, freezing – repeat. And when you try to sneak in a long break from this around the clock job, you will feel the pressure. Literally. Your boobs will feel like they’re going to explode!

• I live in pajamas & yoga pants. Sad, I know. I only say yoga pants because I can’t bring myself to leave the house in pajamas. I do have some standards.

• Multi-tasking is key to my survival. There’s truly not enough time in the day for a working mom. If I didn’t find crazy ways to multi-task, I wouldn’t get much done. I have even found myself pumping while brushing my teeth & getting ready for work! I’m not proud, but it has helped me get to the office on time.

• Date nights are elusive. Yes, experts encourage couples to make alone time a priority. I fully agree. But to be honest, I don’t like being away from our baby. Spending time with Thomas is what makes me happy. It’s already hard enough going to work. So when I do get some free time, I’d rather do date night at home watching a movie. Who says three is a crowd?

• When in doubt, all of the above are absolutely worth it. There is nothing better than looking into your precious baby’s eyes and feeling a love beyond anything you’ve ever experienced… even if you are still in your pajamas.