A Night Off

A couple of nights ago, I had the rare pleasure of a night at home ENTIRELY by myself. The hubby was on the road to California, and my parents were keeping the kids. BLISS! While I didn't get to enjoy champagne and a bubble bath like the picture here suggests, I did get a lot of work done.

My intention for the evening was to relax, but as is my nature, I ended up finding several things that needed to be done around the house. I know, I know, but I really needed time to get this stuff done without a preschooler wanting help with his crayon pictures or a baby needing to be fed or diapered. I could concentrate on the tasks at hand. I still found myself pausing every now and then to see if I could hear the baby crying (habit, I know), and that night after about six hours of sleep, my body told itself to wake up and stay up. Huh! So much for getting a full eight hours of kip! The idea is so foreign to me now, it seems I've lost the ability to actually do it!

I have to say that taking time for yourself is really important, especially if you're a mother. No matter if you're new to the game or are a veteran parent of grown kids, a time out really gives you a chance to recharge your batteries and center your being. True, I was busy getting things done around the house, but I still felt somewhat rested from the time off. I was even excited to see the kids the next day and found I had a lot more patience to deal with Zeke constantly pushing the envelope, as most preschoolers tend to do.

So, mothers, find someone to take the kids for a couple of hours, light a scented candle, sit back with a beverage of your choice, and put your feet up. I don't recommend watching TV during your down time, but maybe pick up that book you've been meaning to read or call a friend you haven't talked to in a while. It's amazing what a little time to yourself will do!