Parenting any child has its challenges, and there are lots of things I used to get away with as a single person that simply don't fly now that I have someone else to care for. Like anyone caring for a child, parenting Zion, my son with special needs, has taken me to places within myself—and in the world—that I never knew existed. Here are five things I have learned along the way.
Say 'No' More Often
You may feel obliged to say yes to every invitation you receive. From going out to the bar with your girlfriends like the good old days, to babysitting your sister’s three rambunctious kids, to agreeing to work late, again. News flash: You can, and should, say no (at least sometimes), and you shouldn’t feel guilty for doing so!
Ask for Help
No matter how independent you like to be, you really can’t and shouldn’t do it all on your own while pregnant. There’s no shame in asking your husband to carry things for you or cook you dinner, or asking your mom to watch your toddler for an afternoon. Even little things, like asking your friends to come to you for the monthly brunch, can make a difference. Don’t be afraid to ask for special treatment now.
Order in Dinner
Sure, a home-cooked meal may be healthier than pizza or your favorite Chinese joint, but the latter sure is easier! Treat yourself to takeout at least once a week (try to choose a healthy menu item when you can) and pair it with a Netflix movie. And don’t forget to ask your husband to kindly take care of the dishes.
Take a Day Off
You may be banking your vacation days for when baby comes, but sometimes a mid-week day to yourself can make a huge difference, and you may even go into the parenting process feeling more relaxed. Can’t squeeze in one more day off? Dare we say, call in sick?
Outsource the To-Do List
If you’re the type of person that likes to do everything herself, your to-do list is probably miles long. Now is the time to divvy up the tasks. Hire a housekeeper, invite your brother over to build baby’s crib, and ask your husband to research the best car seat and baby monitor.
Read a Fun Book
When you have a second to read, you usually pick up What to Expect When You're Expecting or The Happiest Baby on the Block. But sometimes you need a break from the pregnancy and baby care information overload. Indulge in a page-turner like Fifty Shades of Grey or Gone Girl instead.
Get Away for a Weekend
Get out of town, and you’ll get away from your to-do list. We’re not talking about a city trip to see all the sights, though. Book a beach weekend or a spa trip that packs in plenty of relaxing and bonding with your husband or girlfriends. You’ll thank us later when traveling without baby becomes a challenge.
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Schedule a Spa Day
Get a much-deserved prenatal massage or make pedicure plans with your girlfriends. You’ll be forced to spend an hour off your feet, relaxing and being pampered—and we bet you’ll love it!
Enroll in Prenatal Yoga
Whether you're trading in a more high-intensity fitness class for an easier workout or you're new to working out, prenatal yoga can help you slow down. The workout includes a meditation and a relaxation period at the end where the goal is to do nothing and … relax. Ask your local yoga center if it offers these classes, and aim for going three times a week. It's also a great way to meet other future moms!
Take a Nap
Soon enough you’ll be dealing with sleepless nights and feeling bleary-eyed with no time for napping. So, make time now. Even 20 minutes of shut-eye can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on that pile of baby clothing that needs to be prewashed.
