Little Happy Things

I've mentioned before how I had baby blues at the beginning of Lizzie's life and although it has gotten better, there are still plenty of days where I feel defeated, exhausted, and stressed. I hate feeling like that...HATE. What I have found to help is as simple as... taking care of myself and doing things I like. I spend all my time and energy caring for my baby which is great of course, but sometimes a mom's gotta do something for herself too ya know? I don't think it's selfish. It's not like I'm neglecting my baby to take care of myself. It's definitely harder to do with a baby but it is possible and so worth it.When I do things that make me happy, I'm a better mom. If any of you moms out there feel the same way and want some ideas, here are some little things I do that make me a happier mommy.

Dress up for the day - Getting dressed in cute clothes actually makes me happy! It's pretty simple I know. Even if I'm not planning on going anywhere special but just going grocery shopping, I feel better when I get dressed and put on make-up. I feel good when I look good - surprise? Now there is nothing wrong with staying in yoga pants all day which I still do some days. I'm just saying I feel better when I get ready for the day.

  

Get out of the house - I'm a stay at home mom and I love it! But that means I usually don't have some place where I have to be. Going along with the #1, get ready and then actually go out! I've never been to Walmart so many times in one week as I have once I had a baby. I can always think of something we need just so I can get out. I also enjoy going on walks with Lizzie. We go on walks every day. I'm fortunate enough to live in a place where it doesn't get too cold in the winter so I take full advantage of it by going outside as much as I can.

Exercise - Along with going on walks, I like to go jogging with Lizzie. I was a runner before I got pregnant, but I can't go running by myself as much now so I just take the baby with me! It's definitely harder because now I have to push a heavy jogger with a heavy baby in a heavy carseat but hey I'll get stronger right? Yoga is another thing I like to do. It's nice because I can do it at home while Lizzie naps. I hear exercise videos are also great! Hmm...I should get one.

Visit friends - I would also add seeing family to those who live close to them. I schedule play dates often in order to get together with other mommy friends. Who cares if the babies are too young to actually play with each other? It gives me a chance to have some adult interaction.

Dates - My very favorite. Tyler and I have always tried to go on dates at least once a week since we got married but it has been quite a bit harder since having the baby. We usually just take her with us; when she gets a little older we'll get babysitters more. Most of the time we'll take her to dinner with us and then watch a movie together when she's asleep for the night. It's not extravagant, but I look forward to the weekend because I get to spend time with my husband. I really believe dating strengthens a marriage and is especially needed when kids come into the picture.

I know some of these ideas aren't for everyone but they work for me. And mothers aren't the only ones that need a reminder to do things for themselves once in a while. Now just find what works for you, what makes you happy, and do it!