Health & Fitness
Mansfield Mothers' Club: The Importance of “Me” Time
For me, it is so important to not lose sight of who I am before, during and after raising my kids and find that balance between being mom, wife and me.
By Kate Flinn
Last month I blogged about how running has given me a new lease on life. I believe it has helped my physical and mental well being, while setting a good example for my kids. I also truthfully love that it offers some solid “me” time. (You know you are desperate for “alone” time when you are staring out the window at your husband, with complete envy, as he mows the lawn. True story. )
I absolutely LOVE spending time my kids. This year home with them has been such a blessing. I have also realized since I am with them all day, every day, a bit of “me” time is absolutely critical to be able to give them everything they need. In many ways, our children define us, but not completely. They are a major piece our whole personal picture. I believe it is so important to not lose sight of who I am before, during and after raising my kids and find that balance between being mom, wife and me.
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Date Night
For example, my husband and I have a babysitter, whom we love, and have made it a point to book her once a month. Many nights we are so consumed with our weekly routines and kids’ needs that by the time they go to bed, we are too tired, and often forget, what it was we needed – or wanted – to talk about with each other. Dinners out without kids help us regroup and to share new good times, and relaxing time, with each other. I also love an excuse to replace my daily uniform (yoga pants and sneakers) with jeans and heels!
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Girls' Night
In addition to date nights, I also savor a rare dinner out with my girlfriends. Last month I had the privilege to go to New York City for the night to be in the audience for a taping of Bravo’s “Watch What’s Happening Live” with Andy Cohen. I don’t know what was more exciting to me, meeting Andy, or getting a good night’s sleep. Okay, I will be honest, I would have let my dogs babysit my kids before I would miss a chance to meet Andy Cohen. (KIDDING!) So, I went with two of my dearest friends and had a ball! We had a yummy dinner, went to see the show (complete with heartthrobs from New Kids On The Block), and then went out for drinks after, too. We were gone for less than 24 hours, but it was just what the doctor ordered. After some quality “me” time, I came home thrilled to see my family. I actually missed them a ton!
Mom's Morning
Last year when my husband asked me what I wanted for Mothers Day, I said I just want to sleep late. I wanted him to take the kids out to get breakfast so the house would be quiet. I said I didn’t care where they went, just bring back a coffee for me and keep it quiet. Of course I woke up at 7:15 a.m. and couldn’t sleep any longer. I woke to a strangely quiet house and went downstairs. I saw my family outside having a breakfast picnic in the yard. They gave me what I wanted and I suddenly realized I did not want to be anywhere else but outside with them. So, instead of going back to bed, I went out and joined them. I got my “me” time and was ready to be “Mom” again. And to me, that was the perfect balance.
Okay….gotta go. The nuggets are awake and want breakfast.
How do you find time for yourself?
Kate Flinn is a member of The Mansfield Mothers' Club, a non-profit organization aimed at providing support for local parents. For more information visit http://mansfieldmothersclub.com, email mansfieldmothersclub@gmail.com or write to Mansfield Mothers' Club, P.O. Box 831, Mansfield, MA 02048.