Taking a little me time…
When is it ok to step back as a parent and take care of yourself. Being a mom I am always planning and making my list of things I need to do. This could include appointments for Joshua, writing a letter about an issue that needs attention, picking up Joshua braces for the 5th time, that last minute thing I forget to do at work and to send that email, stopping at 5 different stores to save money. Paying bills, reminding my wonderful husband to remind me to do something. I am sure you get the picture
When I was younger I never really thought about when people would say “You better take care of yourself” or “Take some time for you”. It definitely is starting to become real. It is so important to not beat yourself up over saying “I need a break”. I have learned that trying to do everything all the time just causes so much stress and emotional burnout.
It can be as simple as just sitting outside alone and enjoying the birds singing and the breeze in your face. Taking a walk, reading a book, watching a movie, take a nap.
Sadly, we all know today service providers are not available due to funds, which again are a stress , that is not needed. We know every day we are losing more services that are so needed. Instead of giving up I have learned to accept and take small steps in reminding myself I need to take care of me so that I can continue to take care of my family.
Myself, I am a music person….. You can ask Jack (hubby) my happiest moments are listening to music and singing and dancing. Some of my happiest moments in living in West Virginia was going on Saturday night to the local Moose Lodge. Don’t knock it, this lodge had 3 floors. On the 3rd floor was a massive dance floor. At 9 pm the old school music started up and by midnight it was up to the date music. It was a place to go and be me and relax with music and dance. I was so lucky back then to have a wonderful network of friends that kept Joshua. Always telling me to go and enjoy and relax... Thank you all my WV friends!!! SO miss you!
Most importantly, I cannot beat myself up for saying “I need a little time”. That doesn’t make me selfish or weak or a bad mom. Just realizing that it is needed to keep myself renewed. To keep my stress down it’s needed. It’s good for our kids and spouses also. I have learned to rely on my husband and know that he can do just as good, if not better, than me. He is so funny he will say “Go do something for you”. How sweet is that? Be good to yourself and in return it will flow through all things you do.