Is this your first Mother’s Day? Congratulations! You have earned a huge pat on the back – and a celebration. Here are a few ways to do just that.
Sleep: The first time you celebrate Mother’s Day is extra special, so feel free to ask for what you need. Maybe that’s breakfast in bed, but maybe what you really need is some extra sleep. Ask your partner, a friend or a family member to take care of the baby for a bit this Sunday while you get an extra hour or two of rest. Do it!
Create a Wish List: It’s never a bad idea to have a list ready of things you need help with in case someone asks. Are you tired of eating casseroles? Add “a flavorful meal” to your list. Too tired with the demands of an infant to keep the house as clean as you would really like it to be? Add laundry, dishes, vacuuming, and baseboard clean-up to your list. The struggle is real.
Family and Friends Time: Brunches in nice restaurants are divine, but during a pandemic, and especially with a very young child, they can be more stressful than relaxing. So turn it around: Pack a fun, healthy picnic lunch – cheese, fruit, juice, coffee – it doesn’t matter. The key is to keep it simple. Grab a blanket and the baby’s go-bag and trek on over to your favorite outdoor spot with family or friends, and enjoy the beautiful spring weather we are blessed with here in Missouri. (Don’t forget the baby!)
Prep: If you need some special “me time,” consider scheduling a pedicure at your favorite salon or spa. There’s nothing quite like a leg and foot massage to soothe your inner mom beast. Not into pedicures? There are lots of ways to pamper yourself – take a long, relaxing bath, go for a refreshing hike at your local nature park (the All Trails App can find one for you), or simply sit out in your backyard and unwind.
Partners, Friends, and Family Members: If the new mom in your life isn’t the kind of person to reach out and ask for help, please take note of some of the ideas above. Bootheel Babies wants to help you help her, so here are a few additional resources.