How do I manage postpartum exhaustion at a splash pad?

Postpartum exhaustion isn't normal tiredness — it's bone-deep, hormonal, and doesn't rebound with a coffee. The splash pad strategy: minimize standing, minimize decisions, minimize duration. Pick the closest pad, not the best one. Pack the bag the night before so morning-you doesn't have to think. Sit on a bench in shade and stay there. Bring a cold caffeine drink (an iced coffee or a cold can) and a high-protein snack like jerky or string cheese — sugar crashes hit hard postpartum. Let the older kid run within your sightline; you don't have to be in the spray with them. If you nod off briefly with one hand on the stroller, set a 5-minute phone alarm and rest. Texting a friend to come sit with you doubles your eyes and halves the load. Some days the win is just leaving the house.