If you are like most new mothers, you probably feel overwhelmed with responsibility and sleep deprivation. If you are also experiencing cabin fever, pick up the book Rookie Moms: 250 Activities to do With (and Without!) Your Baby by Heather Flett and Whitney Moss. Heather and Whitney, the Rookie Mom duo, offer outing and activity suggestions for days when you feel trapped at home. Their popular blog, Rookie Moms, also has a large number of ideas and inspiration for moms and their children, which are indexed by age group (prenatal to preschool) and type (crafty, geeky, indoors, etc.).
For example, activity #57 is meet your spouse at work for a short visit, where you can both enjoy a new face and break from the everyday. Activity #173 is a great idea for vehicle-obsessed toddler: follow the dump truck for an hour. If you’re looking for a little get away time on your own, try activity #328 and host a girls’ only swap night. Invite a group of stylish friends to bring some unwanted clothes and accessories to swap them for something else. A little dessert and wine table will help keep the atmosphere fun.
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Need a babysitter? Check bulletin boards (both virtual and actual) in your neighborhood for experienced caretakers. Often, churches, grocery stores, and community newsletters will post information about babysitters. The best recommendations are those from someone you know, so be sure to ask around for a quality sitter.