Finding Time for Ourselves
Our first contribution is from Mari Suusan Bell.
Her words are quite profound and hard to add to!
In each parenting grands life there is so much to do that we can
often lose sight of our own needs too. But if we fail to care for ourselves
and wind up burning out, then we will be of no good to anyone! This site
is intended to be a place where everyone can contribute their own suggestions
on how we can actually accomplish this nearly impossible task!
Find some respite care for you by obtaining day care, pre school
or something to give you a break three times a week.
Learn to cook by using the OAMC method (Once a Month Cooking).
Close the bathroom door and take a long bath every night...no interruptions
allowed.
Learn to say "no"...
Begin taking long walks of at least 20 minutes...brisk walks...with
a friend, or alone...I used to ride my tiny grandson on my bike behind
me and ride for two hours...on level ground.. and stop at the parks along
the way, etc. Ultra relaxing... and the exercise would elevate my mood
and make life more clear in a stressful time.
Take one hour at a time...only do what you can do...and give yourself
a break. there is always tomorrow...write a list of basics and "have
to do's" and stick to that for a week...and after that week, look and see
if the world ended, when you not super mom/gramma...and try it for another
week.
Assign household chores to each member of the family and expect them
to be done.
Only worry about the things that will make a difference in 10 years..otherwise
try to turn the worry button in your mind to a permanent "off" position.
Don't worry about money unless you have recently gone hungry.
Shop at thrift stores for children's clothing...one wash and who
can tell the difference?
Ask your extended family for help now and then.. or plan large family
picnics where you can relax and visit around.
Reward the kids with a day at the beach, swimming pool, picnic area
for finishing their household chores.
Don't go into their rooms for a week.. avoid all stressfulsituations.
ave hubby watch the children several evenings a week and you go to
the library or visit a friend or go to the mall and ust people watch and
have a coffee.
When grown kids ask you for help...tell them you love them, that
you are sorry they are hurting, but you need them to be strong for you
right now and mean it!
Pray before you sleep and during every waking hour if you have faith
in a Supreme Being...hand it all over to Him...ask Him not for resolutions
but serenity.
Each morning have your first cup of coffee in front of your computer
and talk to your grand friends right here and
remember we understand and we are here for you!
