| a strange but true paradox of postpartum | | | | haven't used it in a year, you probably don't need it |
| motherhood that, at the time you are most | | | | or it would be better you to just rent the item in |
| vulnerable physically and emotionally and most in need | | | | question rather than own and store it. Go through |
| of rest, you want a spotless nest for your new little | | | | your closets, attic and garage and toss, toss, toss. |
| one. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the | | | | And seriously rethink all the little knickknacks and |
| postpartum period more and stop worrying so much | | | | whatnots you have around your home. These are |
| about the housework. | | | | dust magnets and will probably have to be put up |
| Prepare ahead of time | | | | when your baby starts crawling anyway. |
| Most women, sometime shortly before they go into | | | | Ask for help |
| labor, experience a natural rush of energy and an | | | | It's very difficult in some independent cultures to ask |
| overwhelming desire to clean and organize. Use this | | | | for the help you need and deserve. But don't try to |
| time wisely. Instead of folding and refolding newborn | | | | be a rugged individualist. Most native cultures expect |
| clothes, do some spring cleaning. Dust your | | | | little of a new Mom for a couple of months |
| baseboards- be sure to squat instead of leaning over | | | | postpartum. She is pampered and taken care of by |
| while doing this. Squatting is great exercise for | | | | the women in her community. |
| pregnant mommies. It stretches the inner thighs | | | | Let me ask you: would you begrudge a postpartum |
| (they need to be flexible when you're pushing baby | | | | friend if she called you asking for help? Of course |
| out), feels good to your back and even helps your | | | | not. It may even forge a deeper bond of friendship |
| baby's head get into proper alignment in preparation | | | | between you. So don't be afraid to call on your |
| for the birth. | | | | network of support for help. |
| Buy paper plates, napkins, and plastic cutlery and | | | | Ask friends, family, neighbors, people you worship |
| cups for use after the baby arrives. Now is not the | | | | with, other moms at the mom's group you attend, |
| time too obsess or feel guilty about Mother Earth. | | | | etc. for assistance. Don't forget your baby's Father |
| You need to focus on Mother You! Buy recycled if it | | | | as well! And consider hiring help if you possibly can. |
| makes you feel better. Eliminating dirty dishes when | | | | Remind your mother and mother in law that a |
| you have a newborn will go a long way towards | | | | housekeeping service is a great baby shower gift. |
| keeping the kitchen clean. Spring for some of those | | | | The postpartum “babymoon” period |
| handy disposable cleaning wipes too so you don't | | | | passes so quickly. Enjoy every minute and take lots |
| have extra laundry. | | | | of pictures. Baby will soon be crawling and then |
| Do a thorough de-cluttering | | | | toddling around, and then the house will lookreally |
| The rule most professional organizers use is: If you | | | | interesting! |