Since Barry was born, I've continued to take pretty good care of myself. All things I enjoy, I can do with Barry, or while he's sleeping. But rarely do I get to go out and have time for me. .... Let me rephrase that: Rarely do I allow myself to go out and have time for me. But I'm getting better. After a few weeks of feeling angry with my husband for going out with friends once a week, I realized that my anger was totally unjustified. I too, have the ability to leave the house for an hour or two. My baby needs me, but I need me too! I don't have to feel like a bad mom if I go out for coffee with a friend, or get a massage.
I'm sure every new mother experiences a time when she believes she's the ONLY one who can care for her baby; it's a powerful feeling to be the sole caregiver. Moms, you may not know this, but fathers are totally capable of sharing the "babyload" when they're home. They don't have boobs, but they can still offer comfort to baby (and mom!), change diapers, do laundry etc, etc, ETC! They have as much responsibility for the baby and household chores as mom does. Please, give them some credit!
Taking care of yourself by doing things that make you feel happy will make the whole family happier. But, of course, coming home to Barry is the most exciting part of my day!
