Ah, routines. The magical ingredient that makes the chaotic world of motherhood a little more manageable. When Kylie came into our lives, I quickly realized that establishing a routine could help navigate the whirlwind of diapers, feedings, and the occasional meltdown. But let’s be honest: as a new mom, figuring out how to create a routine was like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded.
For almost an entire year, my days were a jumbled mess of waking up every few hours to soothe a tiny human, while the sun rose and set without my consent. I had grand visions of a beautifully structured life, but the reality was a hazy blur of baby snuggles and sleep deprivation. I longed for some semblance of order, but every time I thought I’d nailed it, life threw me a curveball—like a surprise poop explosion or a last-minute request for a midnight snack (from both Kylie and Kyle).
But one evening, as I stared at the clock and watched the minutes tick by, I decided it was time to take control. I needed a plan, a framework to help us thrive rather than just survive. I began by observing Kylie’s natural rhythms—when she seemed sleepy, when she wanted to play, and when she needed to eat. It was like decoding a secret language, and slowly but surely, I started to pick up on her cues.
With her natural rhythms as my guide, I crafted a loose daily routine that incorporated feeding, playtime, and nap times. The beauty of a routine is that it provides a sense of security for both you and your baby. Knowing what to expect helps Kylie feel more comfortable, while I found solace in the predictability it offered.
We established a gentle morning ritual—waking up, snuggling in bed, and then enjoying breakfast together. After that, we’d embark on our adventures, whether it was playtime at home or heading to the gym. I learned to build in flexibility, allowing room for spontaneous playdates or moments of connection. Because let’s be real: life with a toddler rarely goes as planned.
Naptime became sacred—a brief window where I could catch my breath, tidy up the house, or indulge in a guilty pleasure like a solo binge of Sex and the City. The routine also became our touchstone for the evening, winding down with bath time and a soothing bedtime story. It was in these moments that I felt the chaos transform into something beautiful and predictable.
As the weeks turned into months, I found joy in the rhythm we created together. The structure made our days more manageable, and I learned to adapt and tweak the routine as Kylie grew. Sometimes we’d have a wild, spontaneous day filled with laughter and adventure, and other times, we’d relish the quiet simplicity of a cozy day at home.
And while routines have their merits, it’s essential to remember that flexibility is key. Embracing the chaos and understanding that things won’t always go according to plan is part of the journey. There will be days when nap time is nonexistent, or mealtimes turn into messy adventures—embrace those moments! They are just as important as the structured ones.
In the end, crafting a routine isn’t about creating a rigid schedule; it’s about finding a flow that works for your family. It’s the foundation that allows you to navigate the beautiful chaos of motherhood with a little more grace. So, grab your coffee, take a deep breath, and let the routine guide you—because you’ve got this!
