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Some times, every kid needs a simple “Time Out.” Mom, how about you? Do you need a “Time Out” too? I’m Elisa Morgan and this is MOMSense.
“Being inexperienced, I equated my first baby’s cries with bad mothering,” says Cindy Sumner in her book, Mommy’s Locked In the Bathroom. “I spent every waking moment trying to make sure he didn’t cry. My son seemed particularly agitated if my attention wandered to personal matters, like going to the bathroom. So many days, I’d cross my legs and wait for my husband to get home so I could take a potty break! Looking back, it’s embarrassing to have denied myself time to satisfy the most basic physical need.
Perhaps I have difficulty setting appropriate boundaries, but I am not alone. We all need a break sometimes. So how does a mother get away from it all? Any way she can! All you need is your own “time out.” Having time for myself, even when life is chaotic (which is most of the time), allows me to recharge. A shower get-away (or bath, if you prefer) is the perfect example. It fits into the daily schedule, no special equipment or supplies required. And it can be as long as you need, depending on the size of your children and your hot water heater.
Here are some other time out ideas: |
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- Rub lotion onto your hands and feet and give them a massage.
- Read a daily devotional or meditate on inspirational quotes.
- Make a cup of tea or coffee and watch the activity outside your largest window.
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Take Cindy’s advice and be intentional about taking time out. Discerning churches also understand this and that’s why they offer mothers of preschoolers or MOPS groups to reach out to young moms. For information on this nurturing opportunity visit http://www.MOPS.org.
And join me again, for MOMSense.
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