Today the mall became more than just a place for me to shop. My little one is getting older and starting to realize the outdoors is full of adventures and fun things to do so he get antsy when he’s been inside all day. Since I live in a valley area, it is way too hot to take him to the park. I decided to go to our local mall for several reasons. The first is that there is air conditioning. The second is that this particular mall has a play area for kids. The third reason is it is always loud at the mall so no one would notice my super loud child. Finally, there is so much for him to see that he will be very much stimulated. I packed up his dinner of Sunflower seed butter sandwich and carrots and Sippy cup full of water and headed on my way. Of course, I am on a shopping freeze so I had to brush off my window shopping skills. While I was slowly strolling around, I realized how wonderful it is to get out. The monotony of coming home sitting in the living room or playing in the living room with CJ, then feeding him, then taking him upstairs, then reading, then getting him ready for bed can make you feel like you are at a dead end job. It’s is nice to amongst your fellow man and out getting fresh air. The best part is I am still spending time with my son, which is critical since I work full time, but I am not sitting there counting down the hours for him to go to bed. It may sound harsh, but I am so excited to see my son when I get home and for the first two hours I can run circles around him. Eventually by the 3rd hour you need a break and get exhausted. Yet his bed time is upon us so there are no breaks for about 4.5 hours and coming home from work to that will make you count down to bed time. Taking my son out to the mall or other places allows me to spend great time with him without feeling like I am in this zone. By the time we get home, it’s time for a bath, reading, and bed time. For some reason, I become re-energized and rejuvenated. This again was my reminder that you always need to get out and about as a new parent. You can turn the mall into your play zone. It is good to find malls that have family bathrooms especially if you are breastfeeding. I have been to some awesome malls with these insane family rooms. It makes you want to go there just to utilize the facilities. Another great place is IKEA. My husband and I go there for their cheap breakfast. They have a great family room for changing that they set up with their furniture and then there is a play area for kids. I greatly appreciate places like that….letting you know they know and appreciate what you are going through as a parent. The main message here, is get out, you’ll need it.
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