Women and community

While visiting my family in New Mexico, I was lucky enough to have my mom, my aunt and cousin Kara around everyday to help take care and entertain Sofia. I was able to cook dinner for everyone in peace. Of course I still had diaper duty and the rest of my motherly responsibilities, but I was able to rest when tired and could take 5 minutes to myself without guilt.

Those 5 days made me realize how wonderful it is to have a community of people to help take care of children. Not only does the mom get a break, but the kid gets all the extra stimulation that one mom alone can't possibly give. It also seems that each persons strength is able to shine. For instance, I cooked and my mom cleaned. It seemed like there was a beautiful balance. No one was weighed down by having to do everything.

It's unfortunate that in our culture we have lost that sense of community. I'm sure there are places around the country and certain families that still have it, but for the most part we are loners. I hope that changes in the future.

Do any of you have a great community to help you out?