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that said baby doesn't even have diaper rash but an allergy to disposable diapers.

(5) You will call your pediatrician no less than 12 times in the first week of having your baby home because EVERYTHING that your baby does will seem abnormal. Don't worry, he/she expects it and in fact has set up Sunday hours just so new moms can feel better.

(6) Every mother who had children over 20 years ago will disagree with everything that you are doing. They will tell you to use products/techniques that have been proven dangerous and then will knock your pediatrician for not telling you to do the same. Nod, smile, thank them, and then do what you want. You will avoid a lot of arguments this way.

(7) Mother's of all ages in your family (especially your in-laws) will criticize EVERYTHING you do that is different from what they do in order to justify their own parenting choices. Again, nod, smile and then do what you want.

(8) Breast milk is GREAT for your baby, but sometimes breastfeeding or pumping can be too stressful . Don't feel badly if you decide to stop. Your baby will not hate you if you use formula. In fact, your baby doesn't care. As long as you smile while you are feeding him, he will think you are the best thing since, well, since amniotic fluid.

(9) You will cut your baby's finger when you try to clip her nails for the first time. She will bleed a lot. You will cry. But she will not. Don't worry, we all do it.

(10) People will try to categorize your baby. They will compare him to other children and it will annoy you to no end. CHANGE THE SUBJECT OR GET AWAY.

(11) You will be tired. You will be stressed. You will be overwhelmed. You will doubt yourself. You will be cranky. You will be scared. You will be happy. You will be smitten. You will be totally in love. And you will be GREAT. Make sure you find people to tell you that. Hearing it will do wonders for your coping abilities.

Learn more about this author, Kristina Daniele.
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