Mindy recalled that when she first became pregnant, she believed she could raise her son, Kit, on her own, much like her own parents had raised her. She said she initially thought that if her mother had handled everything without complaint, then she should be able to do the same. But as she prepared for motherhood, she realized she no longer had her mother to guide her through the practical challenges of caring for a newborn, including breastfeeding and other tasks that seemed simple at first but would later become difficult.
To help fill that gap, Mindy decided to hire a baby nurse after a friend recommended it. She later described the choice as one of the best decisions she had ever made. The support she received from the nurse, Rose, became especially important during a time when she was facing new fears and uncertainties as a first-time mother.
Mindy said that while she did not have her own mother nearby, she did have Rose, who gave advice generously and with warmth. She explained that she appreciated listening to Rose and relied on her reassurance as she navigated the emotional and physical demands of caring for her baby. According to Mindy, Rose helped her manage fears that she said were the most intense she had ever experienced. In many ways, she felt Rose stepped into the role of a mother figure when she needed one most, even though that was not part of the job.
The experience left a deep impression on Mindy, who said she valued Rose’s presence so much that she joked about bringing her back if she ever had another child. When Rose asked whether she would need her help again, Mindy responded that she did not know if she would have another baby, but if Rose could come live with her, she might decide to have one.
