Thoughts on Parenting Shared at Angela's baby shower

In July, I had the great joy of helping with my friend Angela's baby shower, and I was also part of a panel that shared answers to a variety of parenting questions during the shower.  I wanted to record what I shared to be able to look back on in the future.  

Question: What is a Bible verse that encourages you as a mom?

Isaiah 40:11, "He will tend His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs in His arms; He will carry them in His bosom and gently lead those that are with young."

As a believer, you are never alone.  When you are tired or overwhelmed, remember that the Lord is tenderly and gently leading you as you lead your children.

Question:  What is one practical way we prioritized our marriage?

One practical way we prioritized marriage was to have couch time (not a term we made up!) after dinner.  We'd sit on the couch and catch up after supper while our kids played or read nearby.  Your kids seeing you do this is key - don't send them upstairs or outside to play.  They need to see you prioritize your marriage and find great security in that.  

Another way we have prioritized our marriage is by having a weekend or night alone.  Even one night alone together is very rejuvenating! This doesn't need to be expensive, either.  Some of our favorite getaways are when we come back to our (empty, quiet!) house after taking the kids to grandparents.  Be creative to make this happen - ask friends/swap babysitting.  This is highly beneficial for your marriage and parenting to have time alone.

Question:  What is one tip you have for surviving the newborn phase?

One tip I have for surviving the newborn phase is to get outside!  Going on a walk with baby in a carrier or in the stroller is always refreshing to me - it still is!  Breathe deeply, look at God's creation, and I find this most refreshing when I put my phone away or leave it at home.  Getting outside will help both you and baby.  (As a mom with older kids, I find this is just as true.  Getting outside together and walking, biking, or playing at the park still brings us all joy! Sometimes during a challenging school day, a quick walk to Indian Creek and back home -- just 10 minutes or so -- helps us tremendously!) 

Advice I once heard from a mom was "get your baby outside or in water (bath or even swimming!)" when he is fussy and you know he's fed/clean/diaper changed and don't know what else to do!

Question:  What is one thing you're glad you did with your children?

One thing I'm glad I did (and still do!) is read aloud.  Before you think your baby can understand, read aloud - some of my favorite memories with each of my children involve books we've loved.  As they've grown, this activity has remained important and just recently we were all so gripped with a book we were deep into that my kids took turn reading it aloud while we were driving on errands in the car.  Reading aloud and the characters we all love become a part of your family culture and bind you together with this shared experience.