The Family Foundations Agency

As we quickly approach our youngest child’s 5th birthday; as we fill out the Kindergarten enrollment packet; as we say goodbye to our familiar daycare; as we watch our littlest boy grow up — I feel like it was yesterday. I can remember the day he was born, and every day since then, so vividly. It doesn’t feel possible that five years have gone by.

If you’re a new parent, sitting down holding your baby right now, give them an extra squeeze.

Close your eyes for 10 seconds.

Take a deep breath.

I know you are tired. Touched out. I want you to know: It doesn’t change how much you love your baby.

The days are long, but the years are short.

Do whatever you have to, to make this time with your baby, in your postpartum season, enjoyable.

Ask for (and accept) help. Find mom-groups. Join parent classes. Go for a walk. Binge your favorite show. Drink the coffee. Purge your social media.

Fill your life, yourself, and your postpartum space with things that support you, make you smile, and bring you comfort.

Disclaimer: No preschoolers got drunk on the beaches of Mexico in the making.

It’s been three years (and opening up a dedicated business line) and I’m still getting phone call for business loans I’ve never applied for.

I’ll take gifts and grants, but no loans, thank yew.

Surveys show that nearly 97% of these parents are doing this, even though they shouldn’t be.

It’s carrying the weight of guilt.

And right now, I am giving you full permission to stop.

You do not need to feel guilty about the choices you are making for yourself or your baby right now. You don’t need to over explain yourself or try to justify the reason for your choices.

Feeding choices.
Needing sleep.
Resting instead of “doing it all.”
Not loving every moment.
Putting the baby down safely.
Contact naps — or not.
A messy house.
Ordering takeout.
Asking for or hiring help.
Setting boundaries with visitors.
Taking breaks.
Wanting alone time.
Missing your old life.
Grieving your pre-baby body.
Changing your mind.
Not having a routine.
Not “bouncing back.”

You are not doing this wrong.
You are learning, recovering, and becoming.
And that is more than enough. 🤍

4thtrimester