Nurture yourself
Do something for yourself once per week (at least). Being a SAHM is as full time as jobs can get. There are no sick days, there are no lunch breaks, there are no 4pm latte excursions….unless you happen to be driving and pass a Starbucks drive thru…… and after you settle the who-gets-what-cakepop-debacle, turn the music up, breathe deep and enjoy that much-needed espresso. Need more? Leave your kids with your husband, the grandparents, an aunt, or a babysitter and go get a manicure and don’t feel bad about it even for a second. Your kids will be fine and they need a break from you as much as you need a break from them.
Exercise. Exercise. Exercise.
Don’t be afraid to give out your number. That’s right. Pick up other moms. Trust me, they are dying to be picked up. A stay-at-home mom can never have too many mom friends. The blonde at the playground, the brunette at your mommy-and-me class, the red head who lives in your neighborhood…..Yep. They all want to be picked up and they all want to be your friend. So call them and say, “Hey, so I was thinking our kids could have a playdate if you’re interested??” Translation: I was hoping you could come over with your kid to distract my kid from me for a hot second so I can have an ounce of adult conversation. Mommy friends are essential. Yes, you will likely talk about nap schedules, and your kids’ eating habits, and midnight wakings, but it’s okay. She is an adult capable of speaking in full sentences and she needs you as much as you need her.
I don’t exercise to be skinny or to be in shape or whatever… I exercise because it is the only time in my day that I can complete a thought without interruption. I don’t get to exercise every day. In fact, I have to pay a babysitter if I want to workout during the week, but it is worth every penny. No exercise = no time to think = trouble sleeping = stressed out mommy = unhappy kids = bad. No babysitter? Stick your kids in the jogger or do a yoga video during nap time. In the words of Tim Gunn, “Make it work.”
Guide to staying Shane
Pick Her up!