Supporting new mamas

Before having V, most of the posts that I read were about blocking out visitors during those first few weeks (a sentiment I understand, it’s an exhausting time! I’m a huge fan of no more than one visitor a day)

But at least for this mama, I couldn’t have made it without the outpouring of love and support we witnessed. I am so grateful and humbled by the level of love and support I felt.

Two things that stood out to me—-

1- A dear friend of mine sent me a text 3 days in, saying she missed seeing us at church and she was so happy for us. She also said that a couple of days in, she was hit with baby blues AND that they pass. She didn’t know how incredibly well timed that text was, but I’ll always be grateful for it.

Another friend validated the daily tears by telling me about her own. She also always asked how I was doing before asking about V. She was such a safe space while I struggled with the baby blues!

2- Bringing dinners. A classic for a reason! Not needing to worry about making food was such a relief.

Our friends who brought dinners were so happy to see V, but always made sure we knew that they didn’t need to see her.

I loved that we never felt like we needed to visit for long, only if we wanted to.

One friend from out of state even sent me a morning smoothie the day that L went back to work. It was such a tender gift that meant so much!

I know that motherhood can feel so isolating at times, so send the text to the new mom in your life. She may not respond, but you may never know how much it means.