So this is my first post back after having Eva and I didn't think I had much to write about, but as I've been reflecting on my struggles through the last few weeks this phrase came to mind, "It takes a village." I've always heard this in reference to raising children and I think it is accurate, but I also feel it can apply to taking care of a mother and also in taking care of our own mental health. We are responsible for caring for ourselves, but a supportive network of people around us is often what makes that easier and possible. I think most of us are really feeling this now as we have been so isolated because of Covid. We may not have realized how much we need others around and how helpful they are in caring for ourselves and our children.
My first postpartum period was vastly different as I just had one baby and it was not during Covid. This time around so much is affected by the pandemic, although I have still been fortunate enough to have help and visitors (I have allowed this because I believe my mental health is just as important as my physical health and we are still being safe and smart).
Eva has been so much fussier than Colt was as a baby, and now I also have a toddler who is testing all of our boundaries and honestly driving me crazy! I really could not have survived this time without the support and care of my friends and family. We have had people drop off meals and gifts which is so thoughtful. I have had friends come to carry my laundry baskets up and down the stairs while I heal from my c-section. Those same friends also had to lift Colt in and out of his crib before and after nap for weeks while I healed. I have had so many texts and messages from people checking in and letting us know that they are praying for us on days when I was so overwhelmed and often in tears. We have been so blessed by this community around us.
I know my mental health would be a whole lot worse right now if I did not have this support and so that is why I say it takes a village to support a mother as well as raise a child. It takes a village to allow a mother to be able to do self care and nurture herself during this vulnerable time of healing and adjusting to a new baby.
So to my village...I hope you know who you are...I am so thankful for you, and I realize I have been blessed immensely to have each and every one of you. And to those of you who don't have this support, I encourage you to reach out to those who are in your life and to accept help if you need it. I know during this time is tricky with the pandemic, but your mental health is just as important as your physical health and there may be ways you can safely have support. Don't suffer alone. And if you're reading this, I'm happy to be part of your village if you need it <3
