My Secret Formula For Happiness

Adding a new little human to the family is a big change for everyone! There can be lots of ups and downs as everyone learns to adjust. I’ve learned that if I practice the “5 R’s of Parenting” I seem to have a more happy day. Here’s my little secret formula for happiness in our home.

Rejoice – A new baby is worth celebrating. Don’t forget to be aware of those special moments when everyone is in harmony. Take notice and lock those moments away. They will give you fuel for the not so happy days. 😉

Roll (with it) – Moments can start out so happy and in an instant, everyone is crying hysterically. I know you just want to start crying too (and sometimes that’s fine – let it pour) but I challenge you to learn to let it roll. The below picture is a perfect example. Started out on a happy walk, moments later the stroller accidentally gets tipped onto its side by older brother. Both boys screaming, but everyone is physically fine. Just one little scared baby and one very sad older brother.  Once everyone was reassured we dusted ourselves off (literally) and started rolling down the street once again.

Being a mom is full of stressful moments so you need to remember this…

Relax – Some moments of parenting will be like this face…what the heck?! Trying to capture that perfect picture by the pool in his super cute hat is going to end up like…well like this…

I could have forced my husband to keep taking more. “He smiled the cutest smile just a minute ago. Wait. It’s coming!!” Nope. I had to just relax and realize it wasn’t going to happen. Don’t stress over things you can’t control, it robs you of happiness.

Rest – We all need it. We all gain benefits from it. We all don’t get enough of it. Sneak it in as much as you can. It’s so crucial for your happiness. If mom is well rested and happy, the family is happy. 🙂

Trust me, I know how hard it is to get sleep with  a new born. If you would like to make an appointment with a certified baby consultant for FREE contact Gerber Good Start Gentle®. They’re happy to help you with your little one’s needs. I think we have all had days when we feel like this…

Reward – Raising babies with happiness is a team effort. Don’t forget to reward and acknowledge those who help you. My heart was so proud of my older son when he was helping baby brother stay happy in the back of the car. “Don’t cry baby brother. Be happy all the way home, okay?” Made this moms day. 🙂 And yes, baby brother was very content all the way home all thanks to a very helpful brother.

Those are just a few things that have worked for me. What’s your formula for happiness in raising your babies?