Me Time for the Crazed Mommy

I don't consider myself a selfish person, I feel like I've always been rather giving and generous. However I never realized how much I valued a little "me time" until I had a baby. Don't get me wrong, my baby is my life and the most amazing blessing that I've ever received. I love spending time with her and watching her grow, being a mommy is amazing. Even in the days that get a little crazy and I feel like I don't know what end is up, I cherish the moments with my daughter that I know will fly by.That being said, I have always enjoyed some down time at the end of each day. I've also always been a rather social person who enjoys meeting up with friends, chatting on the phone, or having people over. I live to entertain! So now that my baby is here, how do I find some "me time" when my most important role of mommy takes up so much time? I think that this is something that many a mommy that I know struggle with, and it's honestly part of taking care of yourself in my opinion. You have to figure out some things (large and small) that make you happy and feel refreshed or a little more like yourself and do them. Being a good mommy is a happy one!

*Find time for the little things whenever possible. After I put the baby to bed, I try to put aside all the work and lists and instead focus on something I want to spend my time on. I'm a bit of a reality show junkie and though I don't have the time to watch every show like I used to, I try to allow myself a little bit of mommy's guilty pleasure. I also squeeze in some time mindlessly leafing through magazines, even if it's just for a few minutes until I'm ready to fall asleep.

*Work out a deal with your husband to get in some "me time" whenever possible. Perhaps he takes care of the kids one night of the week when he gets home from work and you get to go out with the girls. Maybe he watches the baby on a Saturday morning so you can treat yourself to a pedicure or just some time to sleep in. Whatever works best for you as a couple, work out a deal that allows you both to have some "me time" and enjoy it.

*Take advantage of nap time whenever possible. Even if it's just to do your nails, talk on the phone, or put your feet up for a second. Whenever possible, put the work aside (it will always be there waiting for you!) and get in some "me time". It's okay if you take a couple of minutes for yourself, your role of mommy is always there but allowing yourself some down time can help to make it through the day.

*Make plans with friends! If you are a lover of happy hour as I am, then try to work out a schedule with your husband or a babysitter and go meet a friend every once in awhile. If you can't get out, you can always have friends over with after the baby is down for the night or when your husband is there to help. Make plans to go shopping or just grab of coffee with a friend. It's amazing how refreshed you can feel after spending some time with your friends. You are a mommy ready to tackle the world.

Your time is not your own anymore and finding time for yourself is no easy task. Making "me time" in your busy schedule can sometimes be a juggling act, but it's so worth it. Pencil some time in because a happy mommy is a good one!