Preparing for Baby: The 3 Friends You will Need...

Once you have registered you can breathe a huge sigh of relief.  You will (hopefully) have the material things underway so you can focus on preparing mentally.  The best way to do this is with an evaluation of your support system.  We have all heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child and its the truth.  No matter how much you feel like you are ready for this new adventure and how sure you are that you and your husband can do it alone, you will absolutely need extra support.  Your "village" needs to consist of some very important friends so take a good look around and make sure these women are a quick phone call away...


1.  The Veteran:  This is the friend who already has children.  She can help you register, pick a pediatrician, and install your car seat in 30 seconds flat.  She also knows how to deal with your leaky bladder, swollen ankles and stuffy nose.  She has endured epidurals, catheters, and labor pains and she is happy to share all of her tips with you.  The Veteran will be crucial when you feel overwhelmed and sleep deprived.  She will talk you off the ledge with soothing advice from a girl who has been-there-and-done-that!


2.  The Preggo Buddy:  This is the friend who is going the distance and the nine months with you.  Whether she is someone you have known for a long time or just met at you OBGYN, she will be your new best friend.  Someone with whom you can share every symptom, fear, and excitement, the Preggo Buddy will be happy to talk for hours on end about all things pregnancy.  And even better she will have an instant playmate for your child!  


3.  The Girl From Your Past:  This is the friend who does not know exactly what you are going through.  She is still running fancy free with no children in sight.  She is your old going-out buddy who is still living the non-bump life.  Although you two are in different phases right now, she will be important for giving you a taste of your old life.  She can go through her relationship woes and go on spur-of-the-moment trips while you live vicariously through her.  She will also be the first one in line to take you out when you are ready for a night away from the baby.  And just think one day you can be "The Veteran" to her!