A few June thoughts

On surviving postpartum & asking for help

Hello, friends! 

I am fresh off a semi-decent night of sleep, the big boys are watching Mighty Pups, and Alden is napping. Josh went to church early this morning to practice drums, so I’m treating myself to an indecent amount of coffee and some screen time for the kids. Praise.

This postpartum period has been so much better than my last one. So. Much. Better. I’ve been wondering—what’s different? Other than the fact that I only have one baby this time instead of two, which, um, is kind of a game-changer. I’ve even had the fleeting thought that I could do this again! Whereas last time I wrote in all-caps in my journal: NEVER DO THIS AGAIN. (For the record: I’m so glad I didn’t listen to that sleep-deprived, overwhelmed, journal self.)

Parenting three kids definitely feels like A Lot, but I think one of the biggest differences this time around is that I’m more open to asking for + receiving help. Having CJ and Kyeler spend the night at a family member’s house, receiving so many meals from friends, spending money on summer camps, and yes, letting the kids watch a Paw Patrol movie at 8am on a Sunday morning. *takes another sip of coffee and sighs gratefully*

Help comes in so many forms, and I’ve been challenging myself to actively look for it these days. Recently I was at Trader Joe’s with all three kids (why on earth) and, of course, bought way too much stuff. I was loaded down with boys and bags and about to lose my mind when an employee came up to me and asked kindly, “Can I carry those bags to the car for you?” God bless that angel man in a Hawaiian shirt! I handed him my groceries so fast. I’ve learned the hard way that there is no medal for carrying it all on your own. 

So, in this hazy postpartum period, I am certainly feeling tired and overwhelmed. But I’m also feeling wildly grateful. For a husband who is way better at swaddling the baby than I am. For grandparents all too willing to help. For friends who know my coffee order and my favorite snacks. For splash pads and strawberry picking and the trampoline in our backyard, covered in mulberries and bouncy balls. 

For the courage to ask for help, and the grace to receive it.