Mommy Time-Out

Since becoming a mother, I realize how much time I need to set aside specifically for me. Simply put, there are times when I need to get away from my children, times when I just need a time-out.

Lately I have been feeling like the walls are closing in on me: I've been short with the kids, and find myself daydreaming about sipping a latte at Barnes and Noble while enjoying a magazine - alone. Moreover, I caught myself daydreaming about our anniversary trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, longing to just be away, to get out of my element. We have plans for a getaway for just the two of us, but with Spring Breakers overtaking the country, I voted to wait until after March. Our previous getaway plans didn't pan out, so once March hit, that added four more weeks to any plan we may have had.

Now, I don't know if other moms are like me, at-home moms or otherwise, but there is something, for me, about getting outside of my regular space - alone - so I can think. I can think about my writing and my goals for me. I can be "off the clock" so I can return refreshed, and when I'm alone I can hear from God. This time away is, literally, all about me. I don't need it every week or every month even, but when I need it, I need it.

I'm currently at the "I need it" place. It is safe to say that I have been at this place for some time now, and it's showing in everything I say and do - and for the most part, that's not good. The way I feel might be likened to mild depression because I sleep more, I have low energy, no real interest in doing what I enjoy, I crave carbs (and not the good ones!), and I'm far more impatient. None of this is productive.

Fortunately, I am able to take a time-out and I have Babe's support, which, I've found, not every wife has. It will be a time of renewal and I'll feel so much better. And I'll be sure to plan the next time away for myself before I get to the "I need it" place.

Motherhood is constant work, if you're not thinking about what needs to be done for the kids you're doing it, and like any other job out there a break is good. Not only am I looking forward to the time away, but to the better mom and wife I'll be when I get back home.