So You Can Care FOR Them
Care For Yourself B
by Contributing Writer
eing a mom is gratifying and rewarding. At the same time, it can be exhausting and draining. When I think about the toddler years, I remember the busyness, the occasional chaos, and that long list of all the things that "only Mommy" could do. Now that the kids are older and more independent, I can look back at those early parenting years with some perspective, and I'd like to share a few suggestions for younger moms.
50 | LANTANA LIVING
| February 2020
Look
Look In around Find your people. Even though we will always need people around us who are in different stages of life, we also need mom friends who are going through the same things we are. When you have a baby or a toddler -- or both -it's sometimes the hardest thing in the world to get out, do stuff, or make plans. Let me encourage you: instead of letting the babies be the reason why you can't get out of the house, find a way to let them be the reason why you do. Believe it or not, children's activities aren't just about the kids. Many moms find their mom-friend crowd through kids' events. Does your library have a baby storytime? Give it a try. Is there a preschool mom’s group in your community? Find out if you can visit a meeting. Do you have a nearby playground? Pick a day to eat your sandwiches at the park and see if someone with kids wants to join you.
Mirror
Being a mom changes everything -- or does it? Every now and then, be sure to look in the mirror and remember the "you" that you were before having kids. She's still in there. She's got ideas and hobbies, and she's good at so many things. Once in a while, try to carve out a little time to do something you love that's not just a momjob. It can be refreshing and renewing to pick up a forsaken hobby, a good book, or a favorite pastime. While you're at it, think of one healthy habit you can focus on for yourself. Remembering to drink an extra glass of water daily? Getting outside in the fresh air and sunshine for a couple of minutes? Doing that 15-second plank challenge your friend talked about? It doesn't have to be anything earth-shattering, but it's a little something you can do to take care of you. www.LantanaLiving.com
