Our schedules get so busy doing the things that we have to do, that we no longer have time to do the things that we love. Making time for yourself recharges your batteries and renews your spirit. I don’t know where it came from, but the phrase “when Momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy” comes to mind. Think of it as a gift to your family, not just to yourself. A relaxed and rested wife/mom is a much more patient, loving woman!

So where are you going to find this time? First, take a look at all the things you do in a day. In the organizational sense, you would look at everything, prioritize your schedule and routines, delegate some smaller jobs to the kiddos or husband, etc. My favorite way to squeeze in some “me” time is to kill two birds with one stone. Multi-tasking is key! No matter who you are, how much you make, or the kind of car you drive, the amount of hours in your day just can’t be increased!

One way I squeeze in a good 30 minutes or so is in the carpool line! The baby is in the backseat, but with a snack and a Wiggles DVD, she’s usually pretty quiet. I take a book and forget my troubles for a few minutes! Another idea for those times when your kids are in their extracurricular classes is to take a walk around the parking lot to squeeze in some exercise. I also like to try to catch up with my friends with a quick phone call during those few peaceful minutes.

What works for me in scheduling time for myself, is to make it a priority. At least once a week I do this. It’s even written down (you know how much I like lists!). I try to have at least one lunch date with a friend every week. This isn’t completely time to myself, since I have a toddler with me. The trick to that is to go to lunch with the friend(s) that likes to hog your baby, he he he. Almost every Tuesday evening, my husband and I have a movie night together. We just rent one from Netflix and pop it in when the girls are in bed-no babysitter required! I also have made it a habit of taking a bubble bath whenever I get a new magazine. I know that sounds odd, but when else would I have time to sit and read Real Simple uninterrupted from cover to cover? Well, I suppose I could cut back on the blogging, but let’s not get crazy here! Click here to read more tips for “Works For Me Wednesday”!

When I’m trying to be thrifty, I often escape to the bookstore one night a week when hubby gets home from work. Books, comfy chairs, and a Starbucks, what more could I need? I also like to get away to Target and walk every single aisle that my heart desires. It’s so nice to look at whatever I want, skip the toy department, and not have to hear “why do we always have to look at…?”. I’ve even learned to enjoy yard work and being outside. It’s quiet and often repetative work, so it’s a nice time to reflect. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE my kids and my family, but I love them even more when I’ve had some time to myself!