Baby Fingers Blog by Lora: December 2011

“Who stole the cookie from the cookie jar?” Go ahead, treat yourself! Once in a while (if not every day!) each of us deserves a treat. Maybe it’s a cookie or your favorite candy bar, maybe it’s five extra minutes in the shower or reading a book, maybe it’s a skype call with a friend or family member… whatever it may be, you deserve it!

“If I am not for myself, who will be for me?” This is part of a quote by Hillel, a famous rabbi and scholar. While I feel connected to my faith, I don’t consider myself a religious person- but there are some helpful reminders out there!

Think about your children—they become irritable when they are hungry or tired, right? And they are not quite themselves when they are sick, correct? How about you? Yes, YOU! If you are always hungry, overtired, feeling under the weather, overbooked and overworked, you will be a constant irritant to yourself and others. Believe me, I’ve been there. It’s not fair to those around us, but more importantly – honestly – it’s not fair to you!

I know I’m a better mom when I feel good about myself. I know I’m a better wife when I’ve taken care of myself. I know I’m a better person overall when I’ve gotten some sleep, when I’ve eaten right (or at least eaten!), when I’ve remembered and allowed myself to take a moment just for me.

Easier said than done, right? How are we supposed to find that moment to treat ourselves to rest or to food? Figure it out- it’s different for each of us and may be more difficult for some, but it’s possible. Hand off baby to dad or grandma for a few minutes or tell your kids you need them to work on their homework for 10 minutes alone or schedule them a play date somewhere else. Plan a date night with your partner or spouse. Sign up for a yoga class or join a book club. Make a phone call and order in some lunch. Go on line – or better yet, get some fresh air and stop into Victoria Secret – to find yourself something that looks and feels good. Write a letter to a friend. Pick up a bouquet of flowers for the living room. Do something or eat something that you really love—whether it’s for five minutes a day or for an hour a week.

Trust me. Your family will appreciate you more and you’ll certainly enjoy your time with them a whole lot more if you’re in the right state of mind. Give it a try. And remind me to do it too!

The holidays are approaching—enjoy the time and treat yourself. Celebrate YOU.