Please Don't Clean Your House

There is a new baby in your life. She probably wants to eat every 2-3 hours, and probably fills her diapers just as often. That means your sleep is probably being interrupted, and who knows when the last time you ate a meal while it was still hot. I know we have an appointment at 6:30 this evening. But please, don't feel like it's required to have your home spotless before I get there. Or before the in-laws, or your own parents get there. 

Instead, while you're sitting there nursing, start writing down a list. Oh, you need the laundry started? Write it down! Dishes need washing? Put that on the list, too. Could you use some easy to eat snacks? Just add that to the list as well, "prep some quick snacks for me." When I wrote my list, I called it the "Washing Up Wishlist" because I kept it by the sink. Then, whenever visitors came over to see the baby, they would see this wonderful list right next to the soap. "Please help before you hold" reminded our guests that we needed help with more than just baby holding. 

Don't get me wrong! Sometimes, all I wanted was someone to hold the baby so I could shower. But having those ready made snacks for me to eat while nursing, or knowing that the laundry wasn't piling up bigger than Mt. Washmore was such a godsend. 

Be kind to yourself. We live in a society that tells us we need to bounce back from birth immediately. Especially here in the Bay Area, where life is always moving so quickly. Instead of picking up before I get there, please. Please put down the laundry. Please leave the cups in the sink. Hand me your list, and relax. Sometimes, asking for help is the hardest step but the best gift.