Holiday Tip #8
From Peggy Nolan, this tip you need!! See my blog roll to the right for Peggy’s site, the Stepmom’s Toolbox. Full of great information, advice, and upbeat perspectives on stepmothering. Peggy Says…
Peggy Nolan says you should do this over the holidays. She's right.
“Carve out 30 minutes to YOURSELF each day. Meditate, go for a walk, read, soak in a hot bubble bath (with a glass of wine if you choose), practice a few rounds of Sun Salutation – do something for you that recharges your batteries, refills your cup, brings you inner calm, peace and poise of mind.”
To which I can only add: MAKE A LIST of things that make you happy. Seriously, write the things down. And then do them over the next days and weeks. Promise?
Please leave more holiday survival tips…thanks for your comments!
Tags: blended family, divorce, holiday stress, holiday tips, Peggy Nolan, remarriage, remarriage with children, stepfamily, Stepmom's Toolbox, stepmonster, stepmother, stepmothering, wednesday martin
December 23rd, 2009 at 4:39 pm
Great advice, but sometimes an hour or two is a necessity — not just 30 minutes.
December 24th, 2009 at 2:07 am
AJ, sometimes you have to drive away for OVERNIGHT
)) Seriously, the last time I was “away” by myself was in October and it’s overdue for me to go again. Even though it was for a conference, I was relieved of my responsibilities and I started to feel like my old self again.
Then, today, when I was out getting the making for the desserts I’m contributing to several events and I was buzzing between stores, I had a sudden desire to go to my favorite bakery for a quiche and a cappuccino. The place is so popular that the line is out the door. Instead of fretting about how long it was taking me, I just waited. I waited and breathed and did my people-watching and ran into some people I know. By the time I left, I felt “youthful” again . . . in the way that having a spontaneous and carefree moment can bring. It was precious . . . that moment “out” of it all. I went home and baked pies while I contemplated my mother who’s been gone for 25 years. A great day, really!
December 24th, 2009 at 8:43 am
I have to agree with AJ and Kim here– a couple of hours of a whole afternoon can make a big difference in one’s mindset. Kim, I’m glad you made that time. What an impact it has to just step out or step away from the family situation or the usual routine once in a while! Interesting how doing something spontaneous made you feel “youthful”–and helpful, too.
thanks for reading,
xx wednesday
December 28th, 2009 at 11:42 am
Thirty minutes EVERY day
And take 1/2 days, full days, weekends, long vacations as necessary!