Surviving (and Remembering) the First 100 Days of Motherhood

A guide for new moms from an Athens, GA newborn photographer

“But one day, you’ll miss these early days — the way they smelled, the weight of them asleep on your chest, even the blurry nights.”

The first few months with a newborn can feel like a blur of feedings, diapers, and sleepless nights. They call it the "100 days of darkness" for a reason — but it doesn’t have to be all exhaustion and chaos.

There are ways to make it easier, stay present, and actually hold onto the moments you’ll want to remember forever. As a newborn photographer in Athens, GA, I’ve been invited into dozens of homes during this tender season — and I’ve picked up a few things along the way.

The Unexpected Challenges No One Warns You About

Motherhood is full of surprises, and some of the biggest challenges are the ones no one really prepares you for:

• Postpartum night sweats – Thanks to those wild hormone shifts, you might wake up absolutely drenched. Keep a fan and extra pajamas nearby.

• Feeling oddly lonely – Even with a baby attached to you 24/7, the days can feel surprisingly isolating. Schedule a daily check-in with a friend or join a local mom group.

• The “witching hour” – Many newborns get extra fussy in the evenings. Babywearing, white noise, or even just stepping outside can help calm the storm.

• Forgetfulness (aka “mom brain”) – Sleep deprivation does weird things to your memory. Voice memos, sticky notes, or a shared phone calendar can be lifesavers.

• Overstimulation – The constant noise, touch, and movement can be a lot. Even short moments to yourself — a shower, a walk, five quiet minutes — can help reset your nervous system.

Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

Getting through the newborn stage doesn’t mean just pushing through. These little shifts can actually help you feel more like you again:

• Safe co-sleeping can sometimes mean more sleep for everyone. If it works for your family, it’s okay to lean into it.

• Gut health matters – Your mood is so closely linked to your gut. Eating real foods, drinking water, and maybe adding a probiotic can actually help balance hormones and emotions.

• Keep moving – A short walk with the stroller or even just stepping outside for a few minutes can lift your spirits.

• Take the help – If someone offers to cook, fold laundry, or rock the baby while you shower... say yes. Every little bit matters.

How to Remember This Season — Without Adding More to Your To-Do List

Looking at photos on your phone is nice... but having something tangible hits differently. There’s something so powerful about holding these early days in your hands.

Here are a few simple ways to turn memories into something lasting:

• Add notes and pictures to a baby book (no pressure to be perfect).

• Print a photo album so your memories don’t live just on your camera roll.

• Frame a favorite black-and-white portrait.

• Start a little “time capsule” box — hospital bracelet, first onesie, a note from you.

• Set up a shared digital album for family and friends to drop their own photos of your baby’s early days.

Need help deciding which newborn moments are most meaningful to document? Check out my post on 8 must-have lifestyle newborn photo moments in Athens, GA — it’s full of ideas to get you inspired.

These First 100 Days Matter More Than You Think

Right now, it might feel like you’re just surviving. But one day, you’ll miss these early days — the way they smelled, the weight of them asleep on your chest, even the blurry nights.

You can’t slow down time, but you can choose to remember this season on purpose.

If you’re still preparing for baby’s arrival and figuring out how to make space for the transition, I wrote about how to prepare your child for a new sibling — especially helpful for families in the Athens, GA area.

Ready to Capture the First 100 Days?

If you’re looking for a newborn photographer who gets it — someone who’s been through it, knows the beautiful mess of it all, and can help you document these fleeting days — I’d love to connect.

📸 I offer in-home newborn photography in the Athens, GA area, as well as a cozy home studio with a few simple touches (think Moses baskets, soft wraps, and chunky knit baby sweaters) to help you remember this chapter as it really felt.

👉 Reach out here to book your newborn session and start preserving these first 100 days 💫