Thank you so much for all of your
uplifting comments, and emails. It is so nice to know that I am not alone in
my feelings, and that this "slump" is common for new moms, and, really, all of us dealing with the seasons, and the ups and downs of life. Why don't people talk about this more...that is a mystery to me? Perhaps we are afraid of being judged. In fact, that was why I was hesitant to share. I kept telling myself: "You have so much to be thankful for- a loving and supportive husband, family and friends, a beautiful house, the option to stay home with your happy, healthy baby, a career you love- stop whining and buck up." But as soon as I allowed myself to be honest, and in turn, heard your honest thoughts on the matter...it was as if a weight lifted, and I felt that it was okay to say: "I'm having a tough time. Yes, I am blessed, but I am having a tough time."
Okay...a report from the front lines. Not that one weekend can cure anything...but this weekend was a start. My husband was amazing, taking the baby so that I could sleep in, and get out of the house by myself during the day. I went to the knitting shop and finished
these gorgeous fingerless mittens that I have been working on. I stopped by the nursery and bought some houseplants to infuse some greenery into our home. I watched the entire sixth season of
Weeds (hilarious... so, so hilarious). I went out for breakfast and actually finished my entire cup of coffee (something that hasn't happened since my little one was born)! Finally, together as a family, we had Sunday tea over at our friend's house, complete with cupcakes and finger sandwiches.
Yes, this weekend was just what I needed. However, now it is Tuesday morning, my little guy is cutting a tooth, and I think I slept a total of 3 hours last night. Am I cured of my midwinter blues...no, but I am hoping to harness the energy of this past weekend and infuse it throughout my week. That's the plan, at least! Thank you for sharing your stories, thank you for your positive, supportive comments, thank you for your honesty, thank you for commiserating. Thank you for being here.
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Hi Christine,
I met you at Squam and have been stalking your lovely blog and sorry I am bad about leaving comments
I am the mom of 4 children(22,20,16 & 14) It doesn't matter if you have 1 kid or 9. Being a Mom is the HARDEST job in the world. There is nothing more physically and mentally exhausting than raising a child. But there is also nothing more rewarding. In my opinion you should blog about the "lows"(and highs) of motherhood because all Moms need to vent and need support. Also if possible find humor in these exhausted moments because teething is a dreadful.
Your baby is adorable and your photography is amazing!!
Sounds like a perfect weekend. And those wrist warmers are gorgeous! I've always been too afraid to try and knit fingers. Hope you have a beautiful week!
What an awesome weekend! It just does wonders to get out and about and "get out of your thoughts" for a while. Being home alone for long stretches with my little one always found me eventually feeling tortured a bit by my own thinking and I found it was key to meet up with other people in order to give my noggin a chance to stop and enjoy listening to others for a change. I would go out here and there alone with P (such a pain to pack everything up!), but actually interacting with other people is what worked magic for me. I still have hard weeks but they are few now. One day at a time! I'm already wondering what I'll do tomorrow? :)
LOVE those red fingerless gloves-- LOVE!!! xoxo, E
Yes, women are definitely afraid of whining and being judged. It was the same way when my girls were little.
Your husband is awesome for being such a great father! Glad you finally had some 'ME' time!!
I can remember when my babies were babies and what two hours out without a baby meant to me - as a nursing mom that was all the time I had because I did not bottle feed at all with my first son. Anywhooo... we do judge ourselves so harshly. And I do think it is "us" and not really "them" who is judging. No one is out there criticizing us when we need a break and a pick me up, but we feel like they are just waiting to catch us being selfish, neglectful, self-absorbed. You did a good thing by posting about your feelings and in such a beautiful way. Winter doldrums, spring fever, sleep deprivation, ppd, boredom, whatever... you needed a recharge of your batteries and you will continue to need that daily, weekly, monthly for the rest of your life. Let it happen. Love to you....
isn't it amazing what a little bit of
"me time" can do?
blessings,
Athena
I have a 3 and half month old baby girl and I can definitely relate to all you've been going through. I get so tired and even when the baby is asleep, it's hard to get motivated. I really treasure anytime I get to spend outside of the house as it restores my sanity and inspires me to do more. It's a hard time, but so joyful when I see her little face smiling, squeals of laughter, and as she learns to do new things. Keep up the good work mama! It's not easy, but it seems like you're doing a great job with your little one!