Ever notice how “Mommy Time” is so hard to find? That is because you have to MAKE time not try find some extra time just hanging around in your schedule waiting to be filled up with something selfish. I can’t even “find” a clean spoon in my house to eat a fast cup of yogurt for dinner in the car between carpool destinations! (Although I am certain to find an old spork underneath a seat in my SUV). And you are rolling your eyes asking me “Oh okay genius, how do I make some time for myself as a mom”? Well skeptic, I am going to tell you how.
5 Ways to Make Some Alone Time for Mommy
1. Take a Vacation at the Pump – My sister has a toddler, a baby and one on the way. Hers are high energy and non-stop children. She makes Mommy time by pumping gas. My sister says that for the little crumb of time that she is filling her tank it is like a paradise vacation. She does have to close her eyes and envision the sound of traffic as soothing waves lapping at the shore (don’t mind the screams coming from inside the car).
2. Take a Shower – Ha Ha HA!!! You didn’t think I meant to actually take a shower did you? Of course not. . .every mom knows that taking a shower is the second most interrupted activity after going to the bathroom and before talking on the phone. What I like to do is use a white noise machine and put it on the other side of the locked bathroom door. Then I go and hide somewhere for 10 minutes and enjoy the break. I RARELY get interrupted because every one of the kids is screaming and fighting one another to be the first to bang down the bathroom door! Genius? Yes, it is.
3. Receive a Major Award – That’s right my friend! While the children are running around like crazies decreasing your life span by elevating your blood pressure, make a list of the things that you are great at doing. Make sure that the list contains things that your significant other has grown used to or doesn’t appreciate. Take a look at your list and decide what you should win an award for. Cooking? Clever money saving secrets? Most Radiant Smile in Your State? Google “print free certificates” and find a place to fill in and print out a professional looking award for your talent. Then tell your spouse that he must watch the kids while you go to receive an award from an online contest that one of your friends entered you in. You can get a night out and some extra appreciation too! This is a small white lie that worked wonders for me to catch a quick and stylish snooze in the back of the library for 40 minutes wearing a gown and an updo!! ( You can DIY and actual trophy from a thrift store like I did if you are feeling crafty – tutorial to come later)
Jennifer Williams
I never get a moment, I too used to enjoy the moment at the gas station, but ours now have these screens that blare the sports channel at you while you pump, thank you BP for ruining the one thing I actually enjoyed. I finally had to talk to my husband because once he was home I figured I could at least run to the restroom by myself, he would literally tell my youngest and the animals – mama is going to the bathroom, you better hurry – yep that did not go over well with me but he has stopped! I need to make time, and I do usually after the kids go to bed, then I get to breath and relax.
Megan
This post had me laughing my butt off. I can totally relate. At least three time in the past month, I’ve escaped to the gas station down the road to grab something that we “needed”.
Sharon
This is hilarious! Free vacation with every fill-up! Now that’s something I never thought about! Why is that Mom is always the most needed when she is in the bathroom or shower? A puzzle of life for sure! and Jennifer – I hate those pumps with TV commercials and news!!! Whoever thought of those was nuts!
jenny at dapperhouse
I agree that those gas station commercials are really annoying because we dont get the choice to opt out of them . . . we are help prisoner to their marketing!
Mimi
As a single mom, it’s definitely had to find Mommy time. Thankfully my boys are older so I’m able to get some time to myself. One way I do that is by mowing the lawn. It’s good exercise, I listen to fun music, and I chill out as I walk. I also love bath time with a good book!
Kelly R
My kids are in their teens so I now get that mommy time. When they were small I could have used these tips.. I love the pumping gas one..LOL
Pamela R
I’m all about taking a shower to get a moment alone =D
Laura
This is fantastic. I especially love the one where you run the shower and hide somewhere else. I need to try that. I agree the kids do know exactly when you’re going to the bathroom, when you’re taking a shower, and as soon as you pick up the telephone to call someone.
Jennifer Clay
LOL, a shower is about the only time I get to myself…or when I am sleeping!