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A Brand New Love: Valentine’s Day with Your Newborn
Author: Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
It's most likely the sweetest of times. With your newborn cradled beside you, you may be overcome with feelings you have never felt before. You're heart literally may feel like it has grown. Valentine's Day is one of those great times to sit back and savor the moment. Yes, you may be tired. You may not be feeling your best. You may think you may not be looking your best.
Look down at your newborn.
Do it again.
Wow.
Talk about a reason to celebrate. Look what you have brought into this world.
It's Valentine's Day. Today's the day to take in this moment.
Wondering how to celebrate? What you should or can do? Here are a few ideas:
- As a new parent, do as little or as much as you would like. You may have been surrounded with family and friends from the day this little one came into your life. And now, you may want to be alone. This day is about love, specifically your new love. Don't feel the pressure to go out and about. Cuddle up and enjoy quiet moments at home. On the other hand, you may be ready to get gussied up and head out to a local restaurant for dinner. Whether you are taking an official date (and leaving baby in good care) or taking the babe along with you on your adventures, be flexible, keep your sense of humor and enjoy every moment. Parenthood is an adventure and Valentine's Day is no exception.
- Be romantic. Connect with the significant other in your life. This may be as simple as holding hands on the couch or lighting a candle over an ordered-in meal delivered to your home. Do take time to say, "thank you" and "I love you." That is what this day is about. And as for sex? Do it when you are ready. Most doctors will advise you to wait until your postnatal check-up, which is generally done six weeks after giving birth.
- Let go of what you think you should do. Have you always been the one to send the Valentine's cards? Decorate the house? Make the cutout cookies? Just because it's on your "radar screen," doesn't mean you have to do it. Don't worry, there will be more time and more energy another day. Valentine's Day isn't about all this "fluff." It is about recognizing the most important relationships in your life.
It's Valentine's Day. With a new baby, you have one of the best reasons to celebrate.
Make the holiday yours. Do it as you wish and enjoy it with your newborn.
