One Morning” is a photo essay series that provides a sneak peek into the everyday lives of the Fairfield County Moms Blog contributors. The morning routine is photographed by N. Lalor Photography, and each mom writes words to tell the story behind the images. It’s a rare and intimate look into each family’s life, one morning at a time.
As a first-time mom of a sweet little boy, my mornings are different every day. We’re rounding out the home stretch of his first three months, during which a true routine is neither expected nor encouraged. However, I’ve finally figured out (at least on most days) how to get both the baby and myself downstairs and to function before 11 a.m., which, in my mind, is a victory of historical magnitude.
My husband is an Orthopedic PA at Yale New Haven Hospital, where his schedule is unusual and unpredictable. So, Troy and I often spend the early hours together, just the two of us, which has become a special bonding time.
We’ve started trying to put the baby to bed a bit earlier and earlier each evening. In the beginning, our night-owl newborn wouldn’t think of going down until midnight. Now he’s lights-out around around 10:30 p.m. I typically get up once or twice during the night to feed, change, or comfort him, and then he’s awake and ready to go at about 7:00 a.m.
I usually feed him in bed. This is a moment for us to snuggle and for momma to catch up on some of her favorite shows on the DVR (This time of year, that includes Homeland, The Walking Dead, The Leftovers, The Real Housewives, The Good Wife, and many more). Depending on the night we’ve had, this point in the morning can go one of two ways: If we’re both still drowsy, we cuddle for a while longer and drift back off for a few hours…him wrapped in my arms (my favorite), or we’re up-and-at-em bright and early.
I savor every second of these mornings with him. He just started becoming extra expressive and smiley, babbling and cooing, developing those chunky cheeks and thighs that beg to be kissed at every moment, drooling like a faucet. I try to capture every grin and every tear and catalog it in my memory because I know this time is fleeting. Somehow, he’s been here forever and no time at all. Next, he needs his diaper changed. He’s often in his best mood first thing in the morning, so I take advantage of chatting, tickling, playing, and singing while I get him dressed. I’ll do anything to get a glimpse of those heart-exploding dimples.
By this time, I’m starving. Breakfast is my favorite meal, so I try to squeeze it in before it quickly becomes lunch. I love a good sunny-side-up egg, toast, hot coffee (from an antique glass pot), and juice—homemade French toast or pumpkin pancakes are on the menu only if I’m feeling ambitious. The baby relaxes in his lamb rocker or on the counter in his new sit-me-up seat while I cook. I like to talk him through the ingredients and steps, pretending he’s my bite-size little sous chef.
I’m exclusively breastfeeding right now, so I try to pump in the morning (when I have the most milk) to get a bottle together for the day in case we need it while running errands or visiting friends. I finally realized that doing this while I eat saves a solid 20-30 minutes, which feels like a lifetime. The baby is my favorite breakfast buddy.
With both of our bellies full, it’s time to play! Troy loves rolling around and kicking his legs on his animal mat in the sunroom. He lifts his head higher and higher during Tummy Time and sucks on his fingers. I’m convinced he’s a genius. 
I like to bring him to different rooms for a change of scenery. In the family room, we play with his activity zoo. He especially responds to the elephant and bear rattles and has begun batting them with his hands. Sometimes we read a book together. Then, of course, there’s always time for more cuddles.
When I FINALLY get dressed (notice I’m still in my robe!) We stroll around the neighborhood if it’s a nice day, pack up and hit the road with grandma, do housework, check e-mails, and cuddle. 
When all else fails, a nap is always a good idea! 
I’m so appreciative of these beautiful mornings with my son. I was laid off from my job as an Associate Creative Director at an advertising agency when I was six months pregnant. Now, I do freelance writing and creative assignments, and I am working on my illustration business, danadoodles—I’m developing several concepts for children’s books since I have been inspired lately! I hope to make the flexibility work and enjoy these moments daily. Being a mom is the best job ever.
Images for this project are captured by N. Lalor Photography, a lifestyle portrait photographer based in Fairfield County, CT. To see all posts in the “One Morning” photo essay series, view here.
