It was all his idea.
We had just moved to a new house in a new city. There’s a lot of stress that comes along with a move, especially with three kiddos.
He knew I needed some time. Some quiet.
He sent me off to Starbucks to write.
I didn’t even know how badly I needed it until I took that “mommy’s night out” and came back feeling like a new woman.
No matter how busy and chaotic your life is, some time just to yourself will do everyone in your family some good.
And there shouldn’t only be a “mommy’s night out.” Dads deserve some time to do their own thing as well, although it may look different from what Mom needs. Dad might not really need a break from the house as much as he just wants to be completely alone for a while. Every person has different needs to recharge!
I like to use these nights for writing because I can focus and just write. No laundry staring me in the face. No children getting out of bed needing a drink. It’s just me and my coffee and my laptop. I’m amazed at how clearly God speaks to me on these nights out – both things to write and things I’ve been too distracted to pay attention to on a daily basis.
You might want to do some shopping. Or take a trip to the gym without children in tow. Or have coffee with a friend. The point is finding something to do that you ENJOY and that REFRESHES you while you are away.
And I feel this must be said: You should never ever feel guilty about needing some away time. A regular “breather” from the daily grind will almost guarantee a renewed strength and motivation to give the best to your family.
Talk with your spouse about time away for each of you – I think you will find the break to be just what you need to bring your family closer together!
*****
Family Tie #18: Grab your spouse and your calendar and pencil in at least one morning/afternoon/night out for each of you. Make sure your away time is spent doing something relaxing and refreshing!
Do you already have a regular day or night out by yourself? What do you do? If not, what does your dream night out alone look like?
*****
To keep up with this 31 Days series, you can sign up to get each post sent right to your inbox for FREE! I will also link to them at the bottom of this post as they go live!
I am really enjoying your 31 days series. It’s the only one I read daily. 🙂 Every now and then I can sense when I need a mom’s night out. My hubby is always good about letting me get away to refresh (time at the gym, a pedicure, shopping, etc). I need to be better about making sure he takes time for himself. Thanks for the reminder!
I so need one of those. Asking my hubby to watch the kids so I can run eats up a huge chunk of time….a night to just sit and think would be great!:)
I need this family tie so bad! I do feel guilty asking, and my hubby, love him, usually doesn’t offer for me to go out. Not like he would say no, but the guilt of asking usually keeps me from acting. This is terrible too since being a counselor this is the advice I give others! My goal is to get more me and me and him time!