Enjoying Your Baby, from Day One to Year One

The first year of parenting can seem like a marathon of body and mind. Your arms become toned without stepping into a gym. Changing diapers, coordinating naps, and sitting down for feedings can gulp up an entire day. Each month launches new developments, with all their joys and uncertainties. Some days it seems you don't even have time to sit on the floor and relax with your baby.

As the weeks went on with my son, Noah, many stages I thought would last forever just glided by. I found that the more frazzled I felt, the more he and I benefited from my dropping everything and playing with him, even if I returned to doing laundry ten minutes later. Here's a guide to enjoying what you have while it's right in front of you.