I have a few friends who just had babies. They are veteran mothers, welcoming their fourth or fifth babies. But the wonder and awe and joy is still evident in them as if the little bundle they carry is their very first. It's great to share their joy and excitement.

When you are preparing for your new baby, you are excited to meet and get to know the newest addition to your family. You try to think of all the items you will need and all of the preparations you need to make to bring your baby home. While you are setting up the nursery, washing the clothes, and making sure everything is perfect, you anticipate what it will be like. If you are a first-time parent, nothing really prepares you for parenthood. It is full of highs and lows, beautiful moments, and tear-filled ones, too.

Having a new baby captures all of your attention. You do not want to leave your baby alone for fear she may need you or you might miss something. Those early years are filled with so many firsts, and you do not want to miss a single one. The downside is that it becomes difficult to find time to complete simple tasks. You have to plan everything you need to accomplish. You might have to ask for help or find creative ways to occupy your baby. You may consider a play gym or even a carrier to carry your baby with you as you complete tasks. Depending on the age of your child, the creative methods will change to be age-appropriate.

It may seem silly right now, but whether your baby is eating will become a priority for you, especially if you are choosing to breastfeed. While it may seem like a natural option, it does not always come naturally. It is something you have to learn. Many moms get so upset when breastfeeding is not easy. There are many resources to help you through breastfeeding. You can consult a lactation consultant. You should talk to your pediatrician because there could be some other issue, like acid reflux making your baby not want to eat. Being open to alternatives and helpful resources can make breastfeeding your baby more enjoyable.

Money becomes a major concern, too. This is especially true if your baby has a medical condition or suffered from a birth injury. This may add extra layers to your parenting concerns. You may find it challenging to pay all the medical bills. You may have difficulty finding the proper care for your child or legal assistance if you're seeking compensation for medical errors or negligence. There are resources to help you with all of these challenges. Check out the Birth Injury Justice Center to see how they may be able to help you.

One thing that my friends who are moms tell me is that having a new baby is also a great time to pray. Quiet moments of feeding, cuddling, or napping offer opportunities to share their joys and concerns with the Author of Life. It can be very helpful to have a little prayer book in your quiet corner. Many mothers love the book Mother's Manual. This little book has prayers for nearly every occasion a mother may face. As you watch the little face of your baby and share with God your hopes and worries about his future, you're sure to find a fitting prayer to help you lift your heart and mind to God.

If you are a new mother, we celebrate with you. Bringing new life into the world, and more importantly, bringing that little life to the love of God through your motherly (or fatherly) love, is a great responsibility, a noble mission, and a source of joy.