When I have a long stretch of unstructured time, I just about lose my mind. I like to have goals and a to-do list, even if its someone else’s list.
What should we do today?
Afterward, you can spend the rest of the day staring at your baby or hiding from your baby and I won’t judge you one bit!
Be fearless
1. Observe Fearless Fridays.
2. Talk about sex.
3. Go on a recon mission.
4. Take your baby swimming. Scary and fun.
5. Take your babe to the movies. Twice. In case the first time is a failure.
Be romantic
6. Go out for just dessert.
7. Celebrate your old selves and be in love.
8. Reconnect over dinner. Have a romantic meal just the two of you.
9. Lube up. It’s the only way to get past 2nd base anymore.
10. Pretend you and your partner are teenagers babysitting instead of housebound parents.
Be selfish
11. Track your own mama milestones. Be proud.
12. List 50 things you like to do. Do those things once you finish my list.
13. Learn to rely on daddy. Then schedule a spa day.
14. Interrupt someone’s work day. (as if you’re the first one to do this!)
15. Learn how to take a shower while home alone with your baby. Trust me, this skill will serve you well.
Be girly
16. Tweeze, dye, and feel pretty.
17. Think with your melons. What’s more girly than that?
18. Start a Ladies Night or Moms’ Night Out. Every month if possible.
19. Find a pretty top or sexy dress to show off your huge boobs. Wear it a lot.
20. Get a pedicure.
Be creative
21. Create an easy time capsule.
22. Bust out your sewing machine to make easy baby pants.
23. Design awesome baby outfits with your printer.
24. Make an easy swaddling blanket.
25. Convert a T-shirt into a newborn gown.
Want more ideas? Buy our book, The Rookie Mom’s Handbook for 250 activities to try with (and without!) your baby. It’s diaper-bag compatible!
[most excellent illustration by Amy Saidens from the RMH]
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I totally know what you mean about unstructured time! I have lists all over my house, even if they say things like “cook dinner” and “watch Price is Right.” This is a great list, ladies!!!
Great ideas… and a good reminder just to do SOMETHING. Even if it’s something little.
Great post! I have less than 2 weeks left before I go back to work…I’m getting started on this list today!
boy do I wish I’d had this on my maternity leave! What a great list and a great GIFT to share with moms to be! Great to offer up at the baby shower!!
Every mom on maternity leave needs to read this! I remember being so consumed with counting down the days til I had to leave my newborn and return to work that I couldn’t focus on doing anything. I was so on edge and distracted. Great tips for new moms!
Great great list. I think I covered like one or two of those on maternity leave. But I am definitely referring to it next time!