Guilt

Trgree1712 · June 2014

So I told my husband yesterday that I needed a few hours by myself. He was cool with that and said he would hang out with the baby today and I could go and do something fun by myself. This morning he left to take her to church then they were going festival. Well now I can't stop feeling guilty. First of for not going to church (wonderful catholic guilt) and then for needing time alone.

KyMackey · June 2014

The most important thing that my mum taught me (& I am the oldest of 5 girls) is that you cannot take care of your baby without taking care of yourself, which includes physically, mentally and spiritually. Obviously there are days when it's hard to get time to yourself but when it's possible, take that time and soak it up!

ashcole28 · June 2014

When I was pregnant with my first my sister in law gave me some great advice. One out of the many tips she gave me was to remember that you aren't only a mother, make sure you take time for yourself to be a woman as well. Like pp said, you have to take care of yourself to be able to take care of your child(ren)

PaperBowl · June 2014

I left my son with my husband yesterday while I went and got a pedicure and did some summer clothes shopping for myself. I didn't feel guilty leaving him but I felt guilty about how happy I was to be away from him, if that makes sense. I told myself it's natural to need alone time, and just because I love my kid to pieces doesn't negate that need.

I feel way more refreshed and relaxed with him today. I agree with pp's that you've got to take care of yourself too!

Starfish+77 · June 2014

Don't feel guilty you deserve it!! But I understand..I also feel guilt bc I am on maternity leave with DS but still send 18 mo old DD to daycare to maintain her routine. It makes me feel so guilty! I'm jealous your DH was cool with that though! My DH would prob not be haha

ksulli · June 2014

^^ this about sending my nearly 3yo to daycare. But when I pick her up early she gets all upset that she didn't spend enough time with the big kids (she goes to the 4yo room after naptime).

Trgree1712 · June 2014

I know that having time to myself is important and I did have a great time going shopping and having lunch in peace.

PaperBowl · June 2014

To go with what KendraColeslaw said, it will also keep you from getting in the trap where you don't trust your husband to take care of the baby.. Beyond just bonding, Dad also has to learn how to handle your kid when you aren't there to help. So even if you don't need alone time/time away, it's still a good idea to take it so dad can practice if you've been the primary caretaker.