Is there a secret to surviving the first couple weeks after the baby comes home? — Exhausted in Elkton

Nope. There really isn’t. We did learn two lessons very quickly though. First, take help when it’s offered. There will be times when you will want and need alone time as a new family, but for the most part the lifeline of help will be more important than privacy (this may be only my experience.) Second, the key is tag team. For the first week, my wife and I were both so nervous/excited/paranoid/overjoyed that we both did everything. Lunacy! Lunacy, I say! Sleep when you can. There will be plenty of moments. If you’re really, really afraid of missing something, buy a Flip camera. Again, sleep when you can. — Hugh

I just found out that I’m going to be a dad. I’m kind of freaked out! What should I do? — Don the Daddy-to-be

You’ve come to the right place, my friend. While I have no actual wisdom to impart, I can assure you that I know what you’re feeling. My best advice is to find at least one (relatively new) father who knows what you’re going through. I had plenty of oblivious (and borderline negligent) fathers around me, which wasn’t helpful at all. If you don’t find anyone soon, hop on Twitter and start using the hashtag #dudetodad or Facebook and join the www.Facebook.com/dudetodad group. It’s amazing how many fathers are using social media tools to help them make the transition from an average dude to a great dad. Final note: Please ignore all baby manuals or guides except: “Be Prepared – A Practical Handbook for New Dads” and “ABCs for Expectant Dads.” The rest will only marginalize you and make you feel like your kid is a slouch. No good. Oh, and, Good Luck! — Hugh