All By Myself

As I write to you, at this very moment, I am enjoying the view of the cozy cafe in Barnes and Nobles, properly pooped out from an exhausting morning of massages and shopping.

Just a typical day in my life.

This day comes to me, courtesy of my mother-in-law, who offered me a whole day all to myself as my birthday gift.  My birthday happens to fall on Mother’s Day this year, so I thought it would be nice to celebrate a little early.  I have been beyond excited about this day.  I don’t know if I have ever taken a day like this to myself since I brought two children into the world. Seriously, stop and think about it–when is the last time YOU did something like this? A frivolous day just for yourself?

Thought so.

I’ve had a hard time accepting the whole “me” time thing.  I feel so much pressure ( that I put on myself as well)  to “enjoy them while they’re little” and I’ve seen an amazing mother lose her daughter, so I think what’s the point? Why waste any time away from my precious babes?

But the fact is, this day has been a-mazing.  It feels great to just have one day to not worry about being back at a certain time, or shopping while distracting small children, or taking potty breaks at the most inopportune moment possible.  I did some shopping, which let’s face it, was badly needed. I had the unfortunate luck of getting pregnant in college, had trouble losing weight after my first daughter, then got pregnant again, and (shocker) am still having trouble losing weight. So basically, my wardrobe is a bit outdated. I keep promising myself I will shop once I lose the baby belly, but we all know that’s not happening.

I am grateful to my mother-in-law for making this day possible and I know it has helped recharge my batteries. I know that tonight, when I see my girls again, I will be in awe of how incredible they are–it’s nice to have some time away as an opportunity to remind us how great motherhood really is.

Oh–and did I mention that frappachinos are half off at Starbucks today?

Life is good.