Motherhood is HARD.

Motherhood is hard. I mean, it's the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. But it's also one of the most rewarding.

I know this because I have three kids -- ages 4, 3 and 1. So I've been there and done that (or am doing it now).

And while I don't have all the answers about raising children, here are some things that have worked for me:

1. You don't have to be perfect all the time.

2. Don't compare yourself with other moms or worry that they're doing something better than you are. Every child is different and every family has its own way of doing things. That's OK!

3. Remember that it's not just about changing diapers and feeding them -- being a mom means loving them unconditionally and being there for them no matter what happens in their lives or yours.

4. YOU are their WHOLE world. From the second they are put in your arms, YOU are the most important thing to them. So while you're in the thick of it, and the crying won't stop, remember that you are all they know.

So to all you new moms (and soon-to-be moms) out there, my best advice is to let go of most expectations you might have about yourself and your baby in the first few months... except for the amount of love you think you will have for this new tiny human, because that you should just multiply by a thousand and one... and that still won't even come close!

XO- M