Hey there! Last week was… just what I needed. Being away from my normal life for an entire week was fantastically relaxing and a huge stress reducer. I camped with a totally new group of people (Clan Blue Feather) in a “no kids allowed” camp. I don’t think I need to tell you that for a SAHM this was a bit of paradise. Of course I love my children and would die for them blah blah blah… but come on! Everyone needs and deserves a vacation once in a while! I ate when and what I wanted. I drank alcohol without the nervous guilt of needing to be a responsible parent. I stayed up late, knowing that there would be no 6:30 am “Mama!” wake up call. It was heavenly.
Aaaaaand now I’m back. I’m glad to be back with my lovies, knowing that they missed me terribly and I indeed missed them. We are slowly getting back to our regular schedule, with one major difference. I have loads more patience than I did before vacation. I have more compassion and understanding too. Being not so quick to jump down their throats for the slightest naughtiness, has made a huge difference for all of us. I said it last week and I’ll say it again. It makes me a better parent.
Being away also gave me time to think about my goals for the next few months. School will be starting in a month for both my son and me. Big changes and challenges are coming and I know this time away gave me a more solid foundation to accomplish what needs to be done. Trying to get my school work, house work, child care responsibility done while dealing with all of my pent up stress would make every single thing that much harder.
So today I am thankful. Thankful that I have an amazingly supportive husband that gives me a break every year. Thankful that I can afford to take a week away to myself. Thankful that the people I camped with were so welcoming and now consider me one of their own. Thankful that I now feel ready to take on the next phase of my life with confidence and renewed energy. I know how fortunate I am and I try my best to take none of this for granted.
Rekindling the fire
This is a beautiful post. As a mother, I am a big believer in self care if we are to show up fully for our families. It’s so lovely to see that you had such a great time. Good luck with the new adventure starting in your life.
Thanks so much, Olga. I think that many times, stay at home parents feel guilty taking time for themselves. I’m glad that there are others that share my feelings on self care.