Today, my guest blog came out for Mom Meet Mom! It's pretty awesome, actually. First, let me introduce you to the site that changed my life. On this site, moms get together and discuss anything and everything mom-related: tips for picky eaters, the best brand of baby strollers, tricks for nap time, etc. We also meet moms who live nearby with kids of similar ages and families of similar values and interests. Meet other SAHMs, other working moms, other single moms...anything you can imagine! It is the ultimate site for moms. You should definitely go check it out.
So, the guest blog of mine is about surviving being a SAHM without going crazy. I decided that I would make this blog a continuation, hence this being "Part 2."
Being a stay at home mom (or dad!) can be...tiring. And difficult to handle. Here are some MORE tips that I've learned along the way:
1. Shower at night. I have a tendency to worry about showering in the mornings or at nap time, for fear that my little one would wake up. Once she's knocked out for the night, though, I can take an hour long bubble bath if I want.
2. Be flexible. As a Type A personality, I'm extremely organized, a bit rigid, and don't deal well with change. That had to change once I became a mother. Yes, I still make daily schedules and plan educational activities for the next day, but if it rains overnight and we can't go the park as planned, my world doesn't crumble. If you're a Type A like me, consider making an "emergency list of activities," things to do on a rainy day or if money for the zoo had to be spent on an unexpected emergency. It's always good to have a back up plan.
3. This one might seem random but is super important: as a SAHM, you need to be prepared for car emergencies - especially if you're kiddo is in the car. Every car should have:
One or two heavy blankets - for the winter or rain in case your car won't start
First aid kit
Jumper cables
A working cell phone charger - you don't want to get stranded with a child and dead phone!
Extra pair of clothes for you - in case yours get dirty or torn from trying to fix something
Extra pair of clothes and extra diapers - in case you didn't pack enough in case of an emergency
Extra snacks - always have snacks; cranky kids usually quiet down with food
Seatbelt cutter - preferably 2, in separate locations, as it's doubtful that a crash would make both impossible to get to; seatbelt cutters aren't just for car accidents, kids can get wrapped up in seatbelts and every second matters
A spare tire, jack, tool to undo YOUR specific lugnuts, possibly even a small kit for tire problems, etc - because, well, duh.
Also, be sure you know how to use all of this stuff! If your other half is at work and can't get to you for a few hours, then sure, some guy may pull over to help, but with your baby? I would rather do it myself and not take that chance. Know how to change your tire, check your oil, and check your radiator fluid. Have your AAA phone number programmed into your phone. Know that Auto Zone does free diagnostics on your battery if you can get to one.
4. Make up games together. It can be fun for your little one to come home from a playdate and they teach you a game that he learned...but how awesome would it be if all of his friends' favorite game was one that the two of you made up together?!
5. Exercise. This may seem impossible, but it can be done! I think that this is especially important for SAHMs; exercise gives you a boost of endorphins - chemicals that make you feel happy - and can help fight off sadness, depression, postpartum depression, etc. Whether it's waking up thirty minutes early to do a little yoga, playing with your child at the park, dancing in the living room, or going on a family walk, every little bit helps!
So there you have it, folks. I may do more of these occasionally, just sharing a bit of knowledge as I learn along the way.
Since you're already online and have nothing better to do ;) go check out the original tips to surviving being a SAHM: Mom Meet Mom Blog
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