Just a reminder - not many people (husbands, parents, children, friends) are mind readers. As a new mom, if you are feeling frazzled, don't let the frustration build up in you and start wondering "why doesn't anyone help me?" Or "why doesn't anyone see that I need - blank". You'll be amazed at the reposnse if you just remember to ask for: An hour alone to just go window shopping, or to take a bath...or for a foot rub...or to read a book or to not make dinner or load the dishwasher. A lot of times, people are reluctant to suggest you get a little time away to yourself because they are afraid you'll be insulted. So, no guessing ladies....just simply ask for what you need. (And yes, that goes for the Dads in the group as well!)

Great tip! When Alex first came home I had lots of issues with my medication and with my incision (they had to take him via c-section). Luckily, I had both Grandma's here to help, and they literally stood at the end of the bed and waited for directions. It was wonderful. I was able to spend my feeling good times with Alex and my husband, instead of worrying if there was laundry to be done or dinners that needed to be made!

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Tigriz
Mom to Alex - 1/21/06

That doesn't work for me, but is a great tip. When I ask I here "no I don't want to" from the kids and I just get an attitude from the hubby. He says he works all day and thinks it is "my job" well I told him I worked all day too and just because I wasn't out of the house it is not important. I do all the wife and mother stuff, plus I have a few online things I do also. Sorry I am just venting I guess.

I'm sorry you have to deal with that jaescafe

I think the tip works for people in all walks of life - whether they be parents or even at the office. If you need help, ask for it. Everyone needs help sometimes.

We have to accept our limitations and it is a humbling effect to ask help from others but it is a thing that helps you to be closer to them.

I agree with that too, and some people you just have to be really clear with. Ask.

It is a good idea to just ask...the worst thing that could happen is you could be told no.

I remember that about two or three weeks after having my baby all I wanted was homemade muffins for breakfast but I did not feel like standing in the kitchen long enough to make them. I wish I would have just asked someone to do it for me rather than moping about for days because I didn't have any muffins. LOL!

I agree that one should ask in order to learn and be helped. That was what I did when I was having my first baby. My husband and I were both newbies and didn't have much experience in rearing children. Fortunately, our friends, relatives and parents were very supportive and they were always there whenever we needed their help.

I think another part of this is to say YES! when someone asks if
they can help. When my daughter was a baby, people were asking
all the time if they could do this or that for me. I always said
no with the stubborn thought in my head that "I know how to
raise my baby!" Of course I see know that it wasn't the brightest
thing to do, I could have used some help!

People should realize that if they have someone to help, they are very fortunate and they should definately take advantage of it! Some people have no help.