While your number one job in these early weeks is to take care of your baby,
remember it is critical to take care of yourself as well. You need to be in good
health in order to be there for your baby. Eat and drink healthy foods on a
regular basis. Try to sleep whenever you get the chance, even if it means
turning away visitors and turning off the phone.
Rely on convenience services. Prior to having the baby, stock up on take out
menus as well as non—perishables and frozen foods so you will not have to shop
to have great quick meal alternatives on hand. Even better, in the month before
the baby comes, cook a few freezable meals yourself –lasagna, soup, casseroles
–and package them in small portions for reheating when you are exhausted and
hungry. Investigate other local services that may be helpful when you are home
with baby: does a local pharmacy or grocery store deliver?
When people offer to help you, say yes. Many independent women are quick to
turn down offers of help, only to realize later they are in over their heads.
Let friends do errands for you, bring your meals or just watch the baby while
you hop in the shower. But, as great as help is, remember that if having
visitors in your home is adding work or stress, it is also okay to let people
know you just want to spend some time alone with your new baby. Discussing a
good visit length before the baby comes can eliminate some of the problems
before they ever occur.
Finally, just remember to stop and enjoy the moment. Smell your baby's head
while he sleeps, take lots of pictures and know that soon this will all be a
distant memory.