Best advice

When I was pregnant with Maggie, I bought a blank journal-type book and carried it with me to all my showers. I asked the guests to write advice in the book, things they wish they had known when they were new moms. Today, on one of the message boards I frequent, a mom was asking this very question: What advice would you give to a first-time mom? (She'd been invited to a shower, and guests were being asked to write down some advice and bring it to the shower.) Responding to her made me dig out my shower journal and share some of my favorite pieces of advice with her. I love looking back at the journal and reading everyone's advice and well-wishes. Here are some of my favorite entries:

• This new little one will make your lives even more fun! One advice I would give is "Do not be afraid." Show lots of love and you both will be just fine!
  
• Train your children to be courteous and responsible with patience, and always have fun with them. Take everyone's advice, smile, and do whatever you want.
  
• Listen to others' advice but let your conscience guide you in every decision.
  
• Just love her unconditionally and she will turn out fine! Sleep when you can b/c there will be many times when you can't. Never be afraid to call a friend or your pediatrician.
  
• Always accept her for what she is, and all the rest will fall into place.
  
• Don't forget to take time out for you and Bobby. Don't feel guilty about it either! Happy parents grow happy children.
  
• Enjoy every minute of late-night feedings, dirty diapers, first words, and cries. She will grow up so fast. It is such a great journey!
  
• The older I get, the more I realize that there is so much that I don't know. However, the one thing I do know is that you and Bobby will cherish this little one. And a child who is cherished will come full circle and will cherish their children.
  
• Baby V is a gift from God. Never let a day go by that you forget to tell her you love her. Wrap her arms around her each and every day so that she knows you love her. You can't love this baby too much.
  
• Remember that you teach by example.
  
• Don't sweat the small stuff. Teach her the Bible. Set the right example b/c they really do copy. And remember to laugh and praise the things she does. Any material thing can be replaced when broken. And make sure she knows she is loved.
  
• How wonderful it is that those who are so fresh from God love us! Don't blink much -- every day will be a treasure. Be sure to let her know what a miracle she is and all the prayers that have been said before she even got here. Mylicon drops are great for gas. Say "thank you God" prayers with her and about her. Friends with children are really OK with child-induced phone calls at all hours ... we answer and understand. Most of all, you three are loved.
  
• Two words: nipple cream! You will never know how large your heart can grow, how much courage you have, and the abundance of love and patience you possess until you hold your precious child. Enjoy every wonderful and frustrating moment and remember that you are now part of a great sorority and you can call on us any time.

So what was the best advice (or worst!) you received when pregnant? What advice would you give a new mom, now that you're an old pro?