Mom survival guide for holiday parties

Grand Rapids, Mich. (WOTV) - If your November and December calendar is packed with holiday parties and get-togethers here's some simple ways to survive when you've got baby in tow.  

You've got to realize as a new mom, or a mom with young children, that you probably won't be the Martha Stewart of the party this year.  If you're planning on bringing a passing dish, keep it simple.  Offer to bring something that doesn't require a lot of prep like cheese and crackers, fruit and veggies or an easy dip.  

When you're at the party you'll be busy making sure baby is happy, fed, changed and not pulling all of the ornaments off of the tree.  You'll probably have to take a backseat to dish duty (darn), and turkey carving.   Remember, if someone offers to help soothe your fussy baby so you can eat, let them.   Take a moment to enjoy yourself and let your family help you out by giving you a break.  

Here's a few other ideas to make your seasonal party plans go smoother:

Start by being prepared.   If you'll be proudly showing off your new bundle of joy have your purse fully stocked with sanitizer.   There are lots of germs floating around this time of year and everyone will want to hold your baby.  It's ok, I repeat, it's ok to offer up some sanitizer or ask someone to wash their hands first.

Bring some baby-proofing items along.  You can't expect the hostess to baby-proof but you can think ahead.  Have an extra baby gate in your trunk and if that looming staircase to the basement is all your baby can eye up, ask your host if you could put up the gate.   If you have a portable crib , find an area to set it up to keep baby safe.

Finally bring a stroller and some extra warm clothes.  If you baby gets fussy from all of the attention bundle him/her up and take an evening stroll to see the twinkling lights.