Mommy Needs a TIME OUT (Or some time off!)

You used to be a dreamer, so passionate and full of life. You used to go out dancing and spend time with friends. You used to stay up late, going to concerts and shows. You used to write or sing, dance or read. You used to have fire in your eyes.

And now you are “mom”. Your days are filled with multiple sets of errands and chores. Countless hours spent changing diapers, parent/teacher conferences, doing laundry, cooking etc. Late nights are much less glamorous-nursing babies to sleep. The only singing you do is to your toddler. The dishes are your “after the kids are in bed” project. When was the last time you changed out of your yoga pants?

Don’t worry- WE GET IT! Been there, done that. This is a NO JUDGEMENT zone.

But it’s time…

Time to find some time for YOU, Mom. There is still a woman in there, begging to come out. Of course you love your babies, but you are more than Motherhood. An hour or two away, making time for you, won’t hurt them, I promise! Don’t let their crocodile tears fool you!! You will find that you are better for it. There was a twinkle in your eye that your husband loved when you met. Don’t let that fire go out.

Self care is so important, so please, make time for you Mom! I am pretty sure you have forgotten what that means by now, but it’s okay. This mommy time out is necessary.

Here is a list of ideas, but the possibilities are endless. Find the time- twenty minutes, an hour, maybe even a whole day. (GASP! ) Do it for you, believe me, it will help everyone in the long run!

Mommy Time Out Ideas-

1. Get a Makeover
2. Take a Spa Day
3. Host a girl’s night
4. Go out dancing in downtown San Diego! Double Duece, Four Points Sheraton, etc.
5. Join a book club
6. Start a blog (or join us!!)
7. Take an Art Class
8. Go Hiking at Cowles Mountain
9. Learn to play an instrument
10. Read Poetry
11. Go to a Comedy show at The American Comedy Co.
12. Take a College course at San Diego City College
13. Go get a Coffee at Swell and chat it up with an old friend
14. Zumba!!!
15. Go out to a Karaoke Bar. Try Chorus!
16. Go to an amusement park (without your kids! Belmont Park counts too!!)
17. Binge watch a new show (or an old favorite!)
18. Pick up a hobby (crocheting is awesome!!)
19. Take a bubble bath, in candlelight with your favorite music in the background.
20. Go window shopping at Las Americas Outlets or Carlsbad Outlets
21. Actually start scrap-booking (I know you own the stuff)
22. Check out an open mic night or one of So Say We All open storytelling events.
23. Go to the movies and watch something that isn’t a cartoon!!
24. Go see a play at The Old Globe, The Lyceum or The Coronado Playhouse.
25. Learn to line dance at Incahoots.
26. Explore flea markets/swap meets or antique shops
27. Go for a swim at a local Rec center, YMCA or at one of our beautiful beaches.

Do whatever you want to fill that space. I know your heart is full of your family, but just remember to keep a space for you.

You will thank yourself.