Quote:
Originally posted by pegmom
I was a professional cook in my former life so I was thinking that it would be a good way to keep feeding people while helping out new moms. |
You should SO DEFNITELY look into it!
I didn't use one last time. I stayed home the first few weeks. DH
stayed home the first two (he was not that helpful to me - I really could have used a been-there, understanding female.) Though I really could have used an "expert" to come in and give me reassurance. Stupidly, we told my sister not to come the first 2 weeks because we wanted to "bond" with the baby. Both of us were overwhelmed because my son was "high needs." When my sister finally came on week 3
she helped me SOOOOOOOOOO much! She just held my son most of the time, giving my tired arms (and sanity) a break.
I tried calling up a "baby nurse" around that time (desperately) but they were all booked.
This time.... I plan to follow the
40 Days of Rest rule that women observe in undeveloped countries. Women stay in bed, recuperating from birth, while their mother's, SIL's, aunts, sisters, (you get the picture) help around the house. Last time, I was so gung ho about being up and about, I ignored my El Salvadorean friends plea to stay off my feet. I suffered some prolapse issues and I think that was the problem.
I think this is a big problem in this country - most American women are very independent and proud of how quick they can go about their lives after the baby is born.
I now think this is a huge error and women need to REST after birth. I know C-section moms who just go right back into the swing of things 3 days after birth.
Anyhoo... I'm going to set up PP help way in advance (sister flying in) but I do need more back up. I need someone to take my soon to be 4 year old DS to the park and keep him happy while I'm resting.
Problem is, the postpartum Doulas around here charge $25
an hour, which is a lot. One company said they only do a minimum of 20-40 (I forget) hours per week.
Though I am very fortunate because I can afford it (and I will pay it if I have no other recourse) but most people can't.
I would really LOVE one that COOKS!!! So, we shall see....
That's a good idea... I'll look into some sort of home-cooking delivery service.
My big "problem" is that my regular babysitter will be away for a month when my baby is due, so I really need to find someone before then.