The winter blues have definitely hit the house and it has been long and grueling. With the flu having come and gone, it is only fitting to wish for warmer weather where we can escape the germ-infested house and get some much needed fresh air. Wishful thinking…until today.
These days, I don’t get a lot of time to myself (unless I schedule it in) but when I do it’s kind of a big deal. As women and moms it’s imperative that we take care of ourselves. I had to learn that taking time for myself was a way that I could refill my love tank and give love to my family without feeling depleted or drained.
Here are some of my favorite indulgences that I like to do when I get a little time to myself.
I specifically remember being in the first grade and another child saying to me…
“Mary, You’re pretty!”
Which I replied…”THANK YOU!!!”
Then he said….
“PRETTY UGLY!”
Wowsers…I am now 35 years old and that seems like it was just YESTERDAY! Our words pierce…and they stick. That little bullying act affected me for YEARS until I realized it was simply a way for someone to just be mean. Kids are mean and unless we teach them what kindness truly is, how can we expect them to show it towards others? We teach kids math, reading, writing, science, etc. but sometimes expect that they will naturally know how to treat others.
I don’t know about you, but when it comes to kids’ birthday parties, I start to get a little stressed out. I try not to compare myself to other mom’s out there KILLING IT with the AH-MAZ-ING birthday party themes, the party decorated immaculately, etc. I had a good friend once tell me, don’t raise the bar too high or you will have to match it or better every year. Good advice…Thanks Amanda!
I was observing Annora interact with her friends the other day. It was fun to see them get imaginative, play dress-up, get the Barbies out, sing crazy funny songs, etc. It was nice to see her as a friend as well. She was kind, gentle, and patient with her sweet little guest. I noticed that a conflict arose between the two when one of them didn’t want to play what they were currently playing. Instead of jumping in to help resolve the disturbance, I watched it play out. Boy am I glad I did! The two girls got upset with each other, turned their backs, and then started playing together again within a matter of seconds. It made me curious and I began researching preschool friendships (I know…who has time for that right?!?).