Daddy's #1 Job: Weeks 1-4

Daddy's #1 job, from birth through week 4, is to make sure Mommy is comfortable. Of course, a Daddy's duties do not magically end after the child's 4th week, but during these first 4 weeks, Mommy *especially* needs your support. This role translates into numerous examples of tactical action:

• Bring Mommy plenty of cool water to drink. Staying hydrated is key to her recovery. Remember, she just pushed a very large (relatively speaking) mini-person out of a space, although designed for the purpose, you would not believe possible. Rule of thumb: every time she breastfeeds, bring a full glass.
  
• Keep a clean house. Do the laundry, of which there will be plenty. Do the dishes.
• Manage delivery of food to the house. Friends are good for this. If you don't have local friends, then consult a food service. You will not have time or energy to cook. Make sure everyone in the house, not just the baby, eats.
  
• Learn to change a diaper.
• Change Baby's diaper. Change it often. Far too much is made of this. Trust me, changing an infant's diaper is not that difficult, and God has not really yet put the stank in poop. I am told that that comes once the young one takes on solid food. Ah, I cannot wait. Anyway, Mommy has plenty enough to worry about: changing diapers is an easy way for Daddy to take a load off (no pun intended) of Mommy's mind....and Baby's bottom (sorry, couldn't resist. Thought I could.)

Love Mommy. Love Baby. Your wife will notice and appreciate all of your effort. And, if that is not enough, just remember you can bank all of this goodwill for the next time you come late after a boy's night out.