It takes a village
As mothers we often selflessly want to do it all. We pretend that we can exist on 5 hours or less of sleep, a nutritious sit down meal is a luxury only earned after all others are fed, and we will never complain that any free moment should be spend cleaning up after another little (or big!) someone. And, while being a mother is indeed a true superpower, it is essential to remember that we needn’t be the doer of all things. Please, ask for help. This is especially true when new additions enter into the family.
A wise mother of four children once advised, “After the baby is born, everyone is going to want to do something and will ask you what you need. Instead of telling everyone you’re fine, actually accept their offer for assistance. Think ahead of time about some of the ways that your friends and family actually could help you and give them a task!”
A few examples of welcome “chores” for your friends:
Bring a pre-made dinner, such as a casserole or lasagna, that you only have to pop in the oven and then you have a meal.
Bring you a takeout from a restaurant you actually like.
Pick up a few essential things from the grocery store – milk, eggs, bread, etc.
Pick up your dry cleaning.
Take the dog for a walk or take the dog to and from doggie daycare one day to let him have some exercise.
If you have older kids, have your friend take the older kids out of house to do something fun for a few hours.
Do a few loads of laundry and hang out and talk with you about adult things for a few hours.
Take some items to the post office to be mailed.
Pick up some fresh flowers from the farmers market to brighten up the house.
Arrange for a school car pool and let others take a few extra turns
As moms, we have to stick together and know when to help a girl out; and also when to allows others to return the favor. Caring for children is amazing and simultaneously the most challenging job there is. Truly, it takes a village.
