Quite awhile back I'd scheduled a mom's afternoon out for today. Just a quick trip to a local coffee shop. I always feel like I can be a better parent when I take the time to refresh and rejuvenate. I've been involved in other mom's groups that do a lot of mom's night outs, but those never really work for me (since, you know, my kiddos fall asleep by nursing). I'm glad there's a pretty good response in our AP group for afternoon mom's only events; babes in arms are always welcome and, in fact, even those that don't always like to stay in arms are welcome, too.
As today started I found myself wishing everyone would just cancel and I didn't have to go. I get in moods like that sometimes. Bubby has been very cranky lately (molars, a bit of a cold last week and the soy reintroduction turned out to be the triple threat) and only mom will do. Beanie has been having an especially rough time; it finally clicked that it's probably quite taxing on her to have an upset little brother screaming and hollering all the time, too. As I was getting ready to leave, both kids were sprawled out on the hallway carpet, not happy campers. Glenn got them up and took them in to the back yard and I finished getting ready. I said my goodbyes and made my way to the coffee shop.
It was just what I needed. Many times when I start feeling like our day is spiraling out of control I feel like just hunkering down and staying in. I forgot how much a change of scenery can help, not only for the kids, but for me too.
I sat outside in the sunshine (it's absolutely gorgeous here this weekend!), tried hemp milk for the first time (it was good, but I think I prefer rice milk lattes), and made a new friend. The other mom I met is also gluten-free, dairy-free and soy-free (imagine that!) so we had lots to talk about. Her daughter is just a week older than Beanie and they attend a local UU (Unitarian Universalist) congregation (do you call UU establishments "churches," I don't know. Not something we're interested in right now, but I've definitely thought of it.)
My sister came over later and we played outside with the kids, BBQ'd, and roasted marshmallows. It was a good day.
Sometimes when I just want to hunker down and hide from the world I really just need to get out and confront the day head on. Easier said than done.
You know, I get the same way when I'm stressed. Even though I know it's good to get out I'd rather just stay put and hide. I always feel better if I get out and about. I'm glad you got the opportunity to get out and meeting another mom that you can relate to is just icing on that cake!
ReplyDeleteOh man can I relate to that feeling. Mostest and I went to playgroup on Friday and ended up hanging out for 5 hours with a bunch of moms and kids! It was really nice but I know that if I didn't have the push of it being scheduled... it probably wouldn't have happened :/
ReplyDeleteEasier said than done, indeed! I know that feeling well, and can always use a good reminder that it is unfounded. I usually find myself glad when I go out anyway!
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