Relaxed, Refreshed &
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ET’S FACE IT, a mom can get burned out mentally, physically, and emotionally simply from trying to juggle it all. A constantly busy schedule with a lack of down time is often the culprit, leaving mom feeling raw, reactive, and even sometimes, desperate. Does a whole half-day to yourself sound impossible? Well, maybe not! Half a day away adds up to just six hours of you-time. And, if your kids are school-age, six hours is the length of a typical school day anyway, making a half-day retreat the perfect chance for you
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to slip away from the siren call of chores, bills, and shopping. So, if you have never considered the possibility of a little escape before, maybe it’s time to try. Planning a half-day getaway may be just what the doctor ordered, even if it sounds like an indulgence. And don’t worry about the cost-just spend whatever you can afford. In a few short hours, you can reclaim your sense of self and return home feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready for anything. How does the countdown to a minigetaway for mom work? Let me break it down for you.
PLAN YOUR ESCAPE. Make sure each child will be cared for, whether at school, with the sitter, or at an extended playdate with a trusted friend. Prep your spouse. Once he understands that the goal is here is a happier helpmate, there is no doubt he will be supportive. Communicate calmly and clearly about your decision to take a little time for you and no one will question the practicality of the decision. They will discover soon enough that when mom is happy, the whole family is happier, too.
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PREPARE THE DAY BEFORE. Have the morning routine smoothly planned. Prepare lunches the night before. Pack the kids’ backpacks, and your bag, with items you don’t want to forget. Get up early. Get the kids up a little early. Keep everyone on track and get out the door on time. No need to remind the kids what you are doing on your special day. Just give them a kiss, tell them to have a great day, and you’ll see them after school, as usual. After all, making time for mom should be normal, not abnormal.
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