Tag: time out

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News

May is MY Month

May is a HUGE month, well for my family it is.

It is the one month in the year where it has many birthdays (including mine), including Mother’s Day.

Since this month is hugely popular and is the time of the year we celebrate Mums I thought why not make the whole month of May dedicated to women.

The whole idea is that the month of May is your month. It is for you to do something each day just for you.

I know that many of you are super busy working at being a mum or working at a job or possibly both.  I’ve created a list of 31 things that you can do. Just simply pick one that you wish to do or you might wish to do a couple on the same day, it is up to you. Remember it is up to you and May is your month to do things for you, just make sure to not overwhelm yourself with things on a list that you might not get to.

There are 31 days in May so plenty of time to do a little of something each day.

Simply getting a cup of coffee at a local cafe after dropping kids off at school or care can be a boost for the soul. Or even taking yourself to a movie to finally watch a show that you have been desperate to see.

Some items on the list might not be super fun but after you’ve done them you will be happier. De-cluttering is a bit of work but the outcome of having a tidier and more organised space means less stress and more time for you and the family.

Also getting all the health checks is a bit boring but a must do. I like to make sure I stay on top of things like skin checks, pap smears, and a regular check-up at the doctors once a year to ensure that I am in good health. Having it done at a certain time each year means I don’t have to think about it, I just organise the times and go to the appointments.

You will see some fun things on the list as well.

For those that don’t want to download the graphic here is the whole list of the 31 items for May:

1. Get coffee at a cafe by yourself or with friends (kid free)

2. Go for a walk

3. Go swimming/exercise at the gym

4. Explore a new area

5. Start a course

6. Meet with friends for a night out/lunch out

7. Read a book/finish the book you’re reading

8. Take a trip away by yourself or with family

9. Save for something special or add extra to your retirement savings

10. Watch your shows on TV

11. Get food delivered so that you get time out

12. Take time away from computers/phones/tablets

13. Invest in adventures (experiences) rather than things

14. Watch less TV and work on things that interest you

15. Take up a hobby, sewing, craft  or write that book

16. Get a massage

17. Get all your health checks done

18. Go to the hairdressers and get a fab new do

19. Invest in some quality makeup

20. Purchase some good moisturiser for your face and body

21. Visit family more

22. See more movies at the cinema

23. Get some new clothes

24. Meditate more

25. Relax

26. Spend time with the kids and just be

27. If you paint, draw, or do photography enter a competition or show your work

28. Learn a language/get pedicure & a manicure

29. If a foodie take lessons on how to cook certain styles of food

30. De-clutter to enjoy more free time not having to do housework

31. Prioritise you to be a happier person

Join in my month-long campaign to do more things for me (you)
and share your stories on Instagram and Facebook.

Make sure to share with the hashtag #mayismymonth

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Categories
Family

Do You Holiday Alone?

The other weekend hubby and I went away for the weekend.

It was a lovely escape to the city for just the two of us.

No kids were coming!

Yes, you read that right, we finally got alone time.

Before I went away for this magical alone time (well not completely alone, I would be with hubby) I was telling another mum at the school about getting some time away for just us. She was very happy that we were finally getting away. She was as excited as I was.

This other mum then told me that in May that she is off all by herself to a retreat in Bali. Yes, she is going to a different country for a full week all by herself. This mum also has three kids and is desperate for a break also.

My dream holiday alone.
My dream holiday alone.

I was happy about our trip away for the weekend, but found myself rather envious of this mum’s trip. I wanted to do the same!   Maybe one day???? (I was excited for my friend too, and thrilled she was getting some rest and relaxation)

In the news was an article about another mum that books herself into a hotel twice a year. She does this alone! Yes another person going away all by herself!  I read this article before I heard about my mate’s trip to Bali.

The article from Essential Kids said that having a break by yourself makes this mum a better parent.  I am sure time alone would help any busy parent.

I have caught myself drooling over holidays, trips away, having fantasies about sitting on the beach sipping my cocktail while the kids are entertained in a kids club.

I would just be content in having a holiday at home as long as the following happened; I could sleep in, I would be able to do my own projects and the house was quiet. I think to get my wish list travelling somewhere else might be necessary.

The weekend away with hubby was nice and relaxing. We had a lovely dinner out on Friday night, and finally eating at a new trendy restaurant. It was a nice change to not have to factor in if the food will be okay for kids before we book for dinner.

Not being on call for others was nice, no yelling, nobody saying mumma all the time, or yelling mummy at the top of their lungs. No fights to break up and no issues to deal with. Rather peaceful actually.

Once we got home the tension in my neck and jaw started to set in. The kids started arguing, I found out they hadn’t been very good on the day we came home and then they started harassing me again about everything and nothing.

It did feel like I hadn’t been away at all.

Maybe I need to go away for more than two nights?

I think I need to look into a Bali retreat like my other friend has done. Would a week somewhere relaxing make me feel better?

Would coming home to energetic kids bring all the tension back instantly?  I seriously need to look at a week long retreat somewhere…..send in ideas people!

I know the kids were excited to see me and hubby, and this is a nice thing. Cuddles, kisses and more were greatly appreciated. The only thing that I can live without is the chaos.

Do you have time out on your own?  If so has it helped you to have more energy and feel better?

Being a full time mum and carer to three kids is exhausting. Any other job you get a holiday, however being a parent there is no sick leave, holidays or breaks.

Down time is needed, but for some a night out or weekend away might the only break they get.

I have managed to be away for a few nights for a blogging conference, basically just a weekend away and then back to mummy duties.

Are you able to manage time away just for you?

How long have you been away for? How did the kids cope without you, were they happy when you were home?

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Categories
Family

Hello 2018

Today is the first day of the new year. It is finally the first of January 2018.

In six days my little boy will be two…yep we will have a two year old.  How those two years have flown by already. He is saying more words, being more independent and of course a very cheeky, funny little boy.

It feels like the day of my little boys birthday sneaks up on me and I am not ready. No invite done, no party organised. I will have to get moving….also make a plan to be better at this January party in 2019.

The girls turn ten this year, yes finally they will be in double digits and more grown up. I don’t know how ready I am for more grown up kids, I suppose it is good that it happens gradually so that you get used to it.

The blog also has a HUGE year in 2018, it turns the big 10 years old… how exciting I hear you say.

To celebrate this fabulous milestone there will be great prizes for my wonderful devoted readers that have been with me over the years. Stay tuned every month to not miss out.

What did I do in 2017

  • Change the look of the blog on the 1st of January 2017. The blog got a whole new look and feel.
  • Work with some great brands and offer amazing giveaways to my readers.
  • Meet some wonderful people through the Problogger conference. I met Pat Flynn and Jadah Sellner…. I was very excited about doing this.
  • Accepted more opportunity.
  • Think, plan and try and do more.
  • Spent time with the kids, played and had fun.
  • Alexander had his first full year in childcare and loved it after a rocky first few months. He now really wants to go even when we just drive by the place. He yells, “play” and points to the building.
  • Try to de-clutter. I managed to rid the house and us of a few things but more still needs to happen.
  • Did things at the twins school.
  • Housework and all the other mundane things that keep the family running.

 

2017 was not good as I lost another friend due to cancer. He did not want to share his illness so to not burden friends and therefore hubby and I found out very late. We are saddend by this news. I hope that everyone is healthy and if you are worried about something please get it looked at. Early intervention might save your life.  I have no idea if this would have helped my friend and upset for his other friends and family.

 

2017 was also a good year, my sister had her second child on the 23rd of December. I’m an aunty again! My sister had another little girl. She came early and therefore has spent some extra time in the hospital.

 

What would I like to do in 2018

  • More blogging.
  • Work on the strategy and plans for my blog and more.
  • Travel.
  • Meet more people.
  • Get our house built or part of it.
  • Finish writing my book and course…yes something exciting is on its way. I hope you will all love it.
  • Exercise more.
  • Remove excess clutter that I don’t need to empower more relaxation.
  • More meditation.
  • More relaxation.
  • Fun time with the kids and family
  • Hopefully a family holiday at some point.
  • That the family is healthy and well. (this includes everyone)
  • Be more organised for Alexander’s next birthday.

 

 

So take care everyone.

Spend time with the ones you love.

Make time for things you want to do.

Have fun and may 2018 be great for everyone!

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Categories
Family

She Shed Needed

She Said inspiration from Home Depot. Picture from http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/
She Said inspiration from Home Depot. Picture from http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/

I like watching the Lifestyle Channel and seeing all the DIY and Home repair shows. I love seeing what they do with run down houses and how they fix them up.  It is great inspiration for our new house and fixing up our current one. The home shows also have another effect, the kids find them boring so they leave me alone to watch them. It ends up being more me time, although sometimes minding the baby at the same time.

One show called, “House Hunters” shows couples in the process of buying a new house. The show gives each couple about four houses to choose from and then they pick the one that is best for them. During the house hunt the man regardless of whether they are old or young or even the husband or the boyfriend really needs and demands a man cave.

Why is a “man cave” so important on the house hunt? I have not heard women ask for their “She-Shed” as well. Yes, it is a thing too! A “She-Shed” can also be called a woman cave.

She-Shed inspiration from Home Depot. Picture from http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/
She-Shed inspiration from Home Depot. Picture from http://www.quickanddirtytips.com/

Maybe it should be a requirement for all houses; A man shed and a she-shed must be in all houses. Would council mandate it to ensure this happens? It would be nice wouldn’t it.

Why is it that the man needs a space to get away from everyone? I would like that too? Why can’t the mother or woman in the house have her own cave to do what she wants to do, have things not touched by kids or maybe sip her wine and watch her favourite shows or she could read a book without being interrupted.

With all the shows that I have watched it is rare that the woman in the relationship questions the man cave or demand to have a room for them, and only them. It could be a craft room, office, or if you have the space a basement area.

I just think that it is rather sexist to think that the man is the only one that needs some time out.

The main argument that I have found for why men need and want a “man cave” is that the woman in their life decorates the house. This in turn creates the need for the man to have his own area for his own decorations, furniture and allow him to have some time for him.

Having a space to recharge your batteries would be lovely. I would be able to have quiet time, not be pestered, not hear, “Mummy, mummy, mama!” all the time, do something for me, finally be able to concentrate on something I want to do without be constantly in the middle of five different things. (dinner, craft, reading a book, getting snacks, and more!)

Everyone needs to have their own space, and downtime.

If you are like me you go crazy with the kids all the time and no time for you.  Allowing everyone to have some me time is ultra-important for everyone’s happiness.

Women have created “She-Sheds” as their version of the “Man Shed”. Some women have decided to take their sheds to the garden and some are just stunning.  The “She-Sheds” can be whatever you wish them to be, reading room, office, craft or maybe a yoga studio. It is up to you, it is your space.

 

Do you have a cave to retreat to? Do you have one for hubby and you as well? Let us know.

Categories
Wednesday Wisdom

Lately Everything is A Mad Rush

Do you feel that you are racing around just to get everything done? Does it always seem like a mad rush?

Well if you can say YES to this I hear you.

I have felt like this for a while now that I am running around trying to get everything done and not really get much done at all.

Taking time for you and to enjoy your own company is great. I love the silence and peace that this gives me. When I get to do it. Image found on Pinterest.
Taking time for you and to enjoy your own company is great. I love the silence and peace that this gives me. When I get to do it. Image found on Pinterest.

Things that have been done:

  • Kids cared for
  • Kids taken and picked up from school
  • After school activities organised, paid for and driven kids to and from them
  • Cared for baby
  • Shopped for food and essentials at supermarket
  • Got birthday present for my mother in law
  • Washed clothes and now trying to fold and put them away
  • Cleaned kids room about million times. No point with this one as in seconds it is back to the destruction it was in before it was tidied up
  • Cook dinners for everyone
  • Pack lunches for kids
  • Check the mailbox for important mail (mainly checking for birthday presents to arrive, oh and a wedding anniversary gift)
  • Make sure that all excursions have been paid for and notes signed

I know there is more to add to this list but some things are a blur so I might have forgotten something important.

Just relax and breathe in good vibes..... and breathe out bad vibes! Image found on Pinterest
Just relax and breathe in good vibes….. and breathe out bad vibes! Image found on Pinterest

Racing around in the window of time that I have to myself never seems to get everything done. I did try and tidy up the bathroom in-between hanging clothes on the line. However I had to have the baby in the garden with me so was keeping an eye on him while doing some jobs.

When I get some time for me to just sit in silence and not race around I feel a little on edge. I think this is due to being on the go all the time and the constant activity and noise of now three kids. Sometimes it takes a while to just chill out, relax and just be.

I currently have a very sore neck and shoulders; It is rather painful. I tend to hold all my annoyance and stress in my shoulders, jaw and neck.  I have tried massage, hot showers and the chiropractor. Maybe I need all three? Or a nice Queensland holiday that allows me to be on the beach, sleep in and rest might be just what is needed.

How do you try and relax?

I try and watch some of my favourtie television shows or go for a walk on my own. Yes walking all by myself without kids is great (I need to wait till a weekend to do this as hubby needs to mind the kids). I also like to take myself off to a cafe for brunch or maybe to the movies to watch a film that I have wanted to see.

The Child Development Institute has a great list to help parents manage their stress. Why not check out some ideas that might help you next time or now if you are needing some relaxation time.

Taking the time to relax is very important. It is good for your health and of course relationships. 

Do you find it takes more time to relax than it used to? I truly believe due to being constantly on the go it takes the body more time to rest and de-stress. What about you?

I know it is hard but I do think we need to cut back on things and activities. I would just love to come home after school pick up and just be. I have also tried to make things a bit easier for me by doing some organising the night before. This means less stress in the morning and an easier start to the day. How do you make things easier for you when you are extremely busy?

Yep although I have my worries and annoyances, I have so many blessings that I am very grateful for. Image found on Pinterest.
Yep although I have my worries and annoyances, I have so many blessings that I am very grateful for. Image found on Pinterest.
Categories
Family

Finally Some Alone Time

Yesterday was a good day. I had an appointment at the hairdressers to tidy up my hair and to also to give it a big lift….yes I had a nice colour put through it.

Waiting to get my hair done.... how nice to have some me time. Also I think my hair thanked me for the love and attention it got.
Waiting to get my hair done…. how nice to have some me time. Also I think my hair thanked me for the love and attention it got.

The pampering, silence and no kids was much needed. Some alone time was lovely. I sat with a peppermint tea in hand and reading a trashy mag while I waited for my stylist to arrive. I left the house thinking I might be running late for my appointment but to my surprise I was 15 mins early.

How amazing to be early somewhere. Having three kids and getting everyone ready to leave the house is a chore unto itself.

So I relaxed with the knowledge that I can just be and wait without the constant chorus of “mummy, mummy, mamma!!!!!!”

The stylist arrived and apologised as I was waiting and he did not know I was there. I said that is no big deal and I was in fact early so there was plenty of time. He was lovely and listened to what I wanted and worked his magic to make my hair look and feel wonderful. We swapped stories of babies and life and just had a great time while my hair got some much needed TLC. It was a lovely start to my afternoon.

I explained to the hairdresser that ever since my third child was born I have been losing handfuls of hair in the shower and also in the hairbrush. I have read that this is normal and happens due to hormones and the fact that you don’t lose hair during pregnancy but afterwards it seems like I am losing heaps. It has made me get very worried but since googling “hair loss and having a baby” I have found the following:

After I left the hairdressers I walked around very slowly, I took in all the coming and goings that I usually miss out on as I am racing around with kids normally. I loved the fact that I could go into shops and not have to be stressed out about kids touching things or the possibility of them breaking something very expensive. I was able to go into areas that are generally off limits to prams and to spend as much or as little time as I liked in each place. It was rather luxurious to do this (It does not sound like much but it was heaven).

My fab new do. Not much different from my old do but it is feeling nicer, the colour makes it look more healthy and the stylist worked with my natural curls.
My fab new do. Not much different from my old do but it is feeling nicer, the colour makes it look more healthy and the stylist worked with my natural curls.

Ever since I had Alexander my body has been out of sorts… I think I need to be realigned and have daily or weekly massages. My pelvis, hip and shoulder feels very sore. I do think that maybe my rib and also pelvis might be out of place as it is very painful to lie down and I never seem to feel good, every part of me feels like it is in constant pain. Not good I know. Has this happened to you after you had your baby? What did you do to feel better?

I have been seeing my chiropractor and he has helped a bit but the pain and issue is still there. I was thinking maybe a deep tissue massage might help me out.

So after my lovely relaxing time at the hairdressers and the shops I took myself off for a Deep Tissue Thai Massage.

Yes…… it was amazing and different. I have never had a true Thai Massage before, the lovely lady used her body to help get my kinks and to stretch my body out.

It was a brilliant experience and I will definitely be going back. I was twisted and manipulated and it has made parts of my back and body move more easily, however it also made me think that everywhere this masseuse touched me was so sore. It made me think how out my body really was.

The masseuse suggested that I come back soon as my back needs to more help to feel better. I will have to book a massage for the next weekend so that I can start to feel better. Next weekend I need to book my time again so that I can help my poor back and body.

I did have a lovely fantasy while I had my massage. I was a princess getting her daily or weekly massage. Yep I don’t muck around with my daydreams. In my fantasy I was in a fab room that was all decked out with detailed fabric, furniture and no expense was spared. I hope I’m not the only one that has weird thoughts while having a massage. Let me know if you do this too.

Have you found that a Deep Tissue Thai Massage helped you feel better? Also have you managed to sneak in some me time after kids? Let us know.

 

Categories
Family

Mini Holiday for All

Today I’m driving to my mum’s and step dad’s place. They are currently house sitting in Newcastle and we are off to visit. The kids are excited as they are having a five day sleep over… Yes that means that mummy and daddy get a break (Mainly mummy gets a break in reality)

The kids feel very grown up having a sleep over with their grandparents and cannot wait for new adventures. When the kids come back we are going to be in the city and starting our weekend adventure in the city for the long weekend.

I’m staying over tonight but the kids are staying for the week and that will allow me to do some things that I have been really wanting to get done. Some of the things that I have been waiting to do are:

  • Tidying up in preparation for the new baby
  • Blog work for the new look and also posts for the current blog
  • Time out for me
  • Sleep
  • Sewing maybe????

We need to pack, tidy up some places so it is not that messy when we come home, have a shower and get ready to go.

I’m looking forward to our road trip with just the kids and I. I have made sure that I am not leaving in peak hour so that our trip will hopefully not be stuck in bumper to bumper traffic.

Have the kids in the holidays stayed with family? Has this given you a break? If you managed to have a break what did you get up to?

 

Categories
Family

Meditation and Deep Breaths

Kids are now back at school and having a fab time. YES! Thank goodness you hear me say! I think I need another two weeks to be at the same energy and speed I was at before school holidays. Do you find you need some weeks to yourself as your little holiday? I know I do!

Just between you and me, there have been more than a few times that I did deep breathing and relaxation exercises to chill myself out.  Holidays are always full on in my house. Kids want to go at a million miles an hour and never seem to get tired. They wake earlier and carry on till late and then repeat it all again the next day. Exhausting really! Why is it that they can sleep in on school days but not holidays or weekends? If you know let me know!

I did love lazing about at home with no particular thing to do or be at. No school lunches to make and I did not have to race off to pick kids up from anything. This was great, but there was one thing that I missed and dread on school holidays.

It is some quiet time for me!  I do love some time out with no noise, yelling, fighting and carrying on that allows me to just do my thing. I can think, I can just sit with my own thoughts for a while. Being on the go constantly takes its toll. Just having a little time alone is a help. 

Meditating with Body Beyond Birth
Meditating with Body Beyond Birth

So what did I do that helped a bit?

As you know I have participating in the Body Beyond Birth 12 week program. I have struggled with a sore eye and of course then school holidays, but I did manage to do some wonderful meditation videos. These left me feeling much calmer than before I did the mediation and armed to face the rest of my day.

If you have not looked at Body Beyond Birth, why not take a look at their brilliant website and all the great resources there. The program is fun and you can take it with you if you travel.

What allowed you to get through the school holidays calmer? Did you manage to find time for you? Exercise or see a mate that you love to chat to? Let us know.

Let us know your thoughts. Why not continue the discussion on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

 

Categories
Wednesday Wisdom

Creating My Own Sunshine

I have had about 3 or more weeks fighting a bad cold, to then get very bad hay fever. I am over the feeling unwell and sneezing and I do feel zapped of energy and motivation. However in my messy house currently I am hoping to do some things for me. Due to being unwell, I have felt rather down and depressed. Silly but not unreasonable given the circumstances.

I am hoping to create some of my own sunshine to allow me to shine and feel good and happy. A bit of me time for my projects will allow this. Now to go and clean the dining room table to get stuck into my project. Image found on Pinterest.
I am hoping to create some of my own sunshine to allow me to shine and feel good and happy. A bit of me time for my projects will allow this. Now to go and clean the dining room table to get stuck into my project. Image found on Pinterest.

I am hoping to get some sewing done to cheer me up. I am planning on doing some skirts for the girls, a skirt for me and pajama pants for myself as well.  (yes something for myself). However this project for me and of course the kids has not happened due to trying to get some housework done. By the time I whiz about and do the odd jobs I never get time for my things. Do you find this happens? I especially need a pick me up now due to being a bit out of sorts.

Don’t worry I am on the mend and hope all is getting better, however I am still sniffling due to hay fever I think and hope the cold is well and truly gone!

It is not grey hair, it is sparkles in your hair.
It is not grey hair, it is sparkles in your hair.

The other day Julia was looking at my hair. She must have spied a grey hair. I don’t have many and only about two, but loved what Julia called them. She said that they were sparkles in my hair. I would rather have sparkles than grey hair and thought that this is a nicer way of describing grey hair. So all of you that have grey hair, you have sparkles in your hair.

This made me smile and of course is another lovely thought to add to the sunshine in my day. It has also reminded me it is time to dye my hair again due to more sparkles appearing. Yes I would like to avoid sparkles for a bit longer if I can.

Stop worrying about your stresses and focus on your blessings.
Stop worrying about your stresses and focus on your blessings.

Lately I have been thinking about the troubles and stresses in my life and not looking at all that is good. I am very blessed and lucky for what I have. I need to stop worrying and just be. Do you do this as well? I know I DO!

What do you do to let more sunshine into your day? Do you meditate, relax, have a chat with mates, have some quiet time, sit in the garden, have flowers to look at, or do a bit of your favourite hobby? Maybe reading a good book is just what the doctor ordered?

Let us know what you do and maybe others will be inspired as well. Send in your comments.

Categories
Things to do

Time Out Idea: Kids Sleep Over With Family

After the twins birthday party, I was asked by their Great Aunt if we would be happy for the kids to have a sleep over at their place. I said that sounded fine, checked with hubby and he thought that would be a nice idea. She mentioned that this will allow us to have a break and for her to catch up with the kids.

Little did I know was that it was not just one night that she was thinking about, in fact it would be two nights and we would have the ENTIRE weekend to ourselves. To make it even better, the kids are being dropped off some time on the Monday…Yes, they are coming home Monday so we get to do whatever we want on the whole weekend!

The kids bags are packed. Ready to go to their sleep over tomorrow.
The kids bags are packed. Ready to go to their sleep over tomorrow.

I did think she had mistaken this coming weekend for the October Long Weekend and had to check. She told us the dates, 27th and the 28th of Sept, so we booked a hotel in the city for us for the Saturday thinking it was just one night. It gets hard with hubby’s work being away on a Sunday so Saturday is still good enough for us.

This sudden weekend by ourselves took us by surprise and got me thinking… Do your kids have a sleep over at relatives? I do understand that if they are too young this might not be possible, but if they are older it might be a great idea.

Holidays are tough when you have to keep the kids entertained and seem like you are always on the go with no rest. Kids visiting with relatives is great as they can learn from them, catch up, have adventures and just have fun with other people. I have found that on the odd time that the twins have slept over their Great Aunt’s they have had a wonderful time.

Lillian especially has been so excited she has packed multiple bags with so many things ready for tomorrow. All their bags are packed with my help today. I am not sure exactly what they have packed, but I think there are many toys, a music box, their perfume, and other important items that must go with them. It was so cute that she raced off to get it all done and her sister then helped get all the extra bags. I wonder what their Great Aunt will find when they unpack?

So I put it to you…

Are you able to have the kids/child sleep over at a relatives? It does not have to be for the entire weekend, one night is ample at times. The kids are so looking forward to their “two night sleep over” as they are calling it. They are looking forward to having adventures and being on their own with family, without mummy and daddy. They are saying how big they are now they are six.

This was unexpected and not planned, but it is going to be lovely…. Me Time, Us Time, sleeping in…. No one asking me to make them breakfast, well at least not till Tuesday.

It might be something to think about organising for next holidays or just the weekend? Start small and I am sure you will love the extra YOU time. It is also a cheap idea of the kids going somewhere without breaking the bank (Assuming you are in the same state and not too far away. If you are not that close it might not be possible)

Let us know if your kids have regular sleep overs with family members? What are their favourite parts of the trip or getaway? Send in your comments.

Categories
Exercise

Mums is Your Neck & Shoulders Aching?

New mummy cuddles. Both mummy and baby are tired. Image courtesy of papaija2008 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
New mummy cuddles. Both mummy and baby are tired. Image courtesy of papaija2008 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

When I had the twins I was so exhausted. Yes I am sure you can imagine. I had over 30 hours of labour that the doctors and nurses thought was not happening and of course it went on forever and ever! I just wanted to go to sleep. This could not happen. I had the first baby and blanked and forgot for a while that I had to do another. Silly really, but this is what happens when you are sleep deprived and physically exhausted and have mentally left the building as well. I am sure I am not the only one that has done this. (Let me know if you did this too, well if you had multiples)

After I had the babies, they of course went straight to intensive care so I tried to catch up on much needed rest in-between doctors/nurses visits and the NICU ringing for breast milk that I had not made yet! OH GOSH THE PRESSURE!

Once our stay in hospital was over and I was finally home with my two precious bundles of joy and I was of course super tired and zapped of energy. Thank god I cooked and froze dinners for three months to help. More on the blog later about that. I will share some of my favourite meals I froze and what made it easy in the first three months home with new born twins.

One thing that was clearly apparent soon after having the twins was that I was constantly bending over and this in turn was making my neck, shoulders and back ache. This was very annoying. I loved being with the babies but since I had to feed them and at times ended up in awkward positions it of course was not good for me.  Has this happened to you?

Not only did I ache, I had to keep on doing the same activity that made me sore! OH how annoying. What can be done you ask?

I went to the gym and found that they did not focus enough on exercises that stretch your body the other way. For example if you are constantly bending and leaning over, why can’t we stretch backwards? Have more movement with stretches that allow you to move the other way rather than constantly putting pressure on the part that hurts or is causing an issue.

Here are some great exercises to help the back, neck and shoulders (Note, this is just what works for me and I am not a fitness expert):

    • This is one of my favourite exercises. It makes my shoulders feel so much better. Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
      This is one of my favourite exercises. It makes my shoulders feel so much better. Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

      Backstroke. Swimming backstroke stretches and flexes the muscles that you are not using that much and it feels great as your body is having the other side exercised. This I find helps me feel more balanced and helps my neck and shoulders.

    • Yoga. Stretching and relaxing with yoga no matter your skill level I find very beneficial. You can either go to a class or have a DVD at home so that you can do it at a time that is easy for you to add to your routine. If your kids are older maybe get them to join in. If your child is still a baby sneak in a relaxation session while they are sleeping if you can.
      The cat pose, the tree and the spinal twist ones are my favourite. Not sure if I have listed them correctly but hopefully you know what I mean. I also like the mediation relaxation on the floor at the end. It helps centre you and makes me more relaxed.
    • Stretch your arms. I like to put my arm on a door or wall. Then I lean the other way so this gives you the stretch on the other side of your body. I do this to both sides and then it makes all joints and arms feel much more relaxed.
    • Meditation. I find a small window to meditate with nothing going on. I know this is hard if you have a house full of kids and activity. I do find that the times the kids are at school I take a part of my day to just sit still and do nothing. I like listening to the stillness, the quiet and just love it. No one yelling, “Mummy!, can you come here!” Sometimes it just takes those moments to make my shoulders and neck relax and it makes the difference to a calmer and more peaceful day.
    • Walking. I know it is not exactly exercising the back, neck and shoulders, but it is low impact and it gives the body movement and takes you to a different environment where you can breathe in the fresh air and relax. Don’t under estimate a good walk around the block or say around the park.
    • Aqua Aerobics. I love this form of exercise. Not only is it good for your joints being low impact, you are doing more as you have to use the water as an added weight that helps you tone up and get fit. You can push yourself as hard as you like or take it easy depending on your fitness level.

I like most mums don’t take enough time for themselves and I should. It is hard to fit it all in and I hope that some of these tips might help you. It will soon be daylight savings and I cannot wait. More daylight, in warmer weather to be outdoors.

NOTE: I am not an expert in exercise. Check with your doctor if these are right for you.

Here are some links that might help you:

Do you find that exercise programs don’t have stretches to help with the fact that we are bending and leaning over more? I do! I feel that we need to focus more on posture, relaxation and stretching. If we did more of this we might not be having such ailments like headaches due to neck pain and so on. I suffer most from headaches due to tension in my neck.

Let us know what you do to relax and make the aches go away. I must say a massage and a weekend away does wonders also, however does not happen often.

Categories
Wednesday Wisdom

Make Time For Your Passion

What are you passionate about? Is it photography, your blog, craft, cooking or something else? I am passionate about my blog, my kids, family, and some other projects that I am working on. Maybe I should have put the kids and family first, they do come first but you know what I mean, it is a list.  So don’t read anything into it.

Have you been finding time for your passions? I have found it difficult of late but I am going to make more time for the things I love. Do you make time and stick to it? Is it an understanding in your house that if mummy/daddy does not get to do what ever you love to do you are a grumpy person? I do find that I am happier when I get to do the thing or project that I am working towards. Even a little bit is a help to make me feel good or better about my project.

Do what you are passionate about and stick with it.
Do what you are passionate about and stick with it. Image found on Pinterest.

It is hard to book things in when hubby and my schedule change so often. Today I am going to make sure to get some more done for me and in the days ahead to book time for myself. What about you? Let us know how you work it out with your partner or situation.

Loved this quote from bloggingontheside.com. It is so true. You have moments where you get discouraged or give up or want to. Success is not something that instantly happens you get there in the end and it takes time.
Loved this quote from bloggingontheside.com. It is so true. You have moments where you get discouraged or give up or want to. Success is not something that instantly happens you get there in the end and it takes time.

Keep plodding away and you will get there in the end. Make time for you, even if it is an hour a day at something that you love doing. Don’t worry if the place is a mess and there are a million and one things to do. If you don’t get some time for you and your passion you will be an angry and unhappy person. Trust me, I have been a bit grumpy of late for these reasons.

And remember you are a star!

You're a star and have a lovely day! Image found on Pinterest.
You’re a star and have a lovely day! Image found on Pinterest.
Categories
5 years and beyond

Me Time: Day Spa Here I Come

Last year hubby and the kids got a voucher for a day spa at one of the fancy hotels up here. The present was for Mother’s Day last year and today I am finally using my spa day treat. I cannot wait. A day of relaxation and me time.

AHHH Relaxation at the Spa today! Winning.
AHHH Relaxation at the Spa today! Winning.

What is your favourite time out activity? Is it pampering at a day spa? A massage? A facial or just coffee and a catch up with friends? I wouldn’t mind any of them actually.

Today is my day to pretend that I have millions in the bank and I swan about at day spa’s every day. Not really but it is a great fantasy.

Hubby is going to spend the day with the kids. The house is tidy enough for relatives that are visiting tomorrow so a little tidy up tomorrow before they arrive is all that is needed. Today is rest day and spa day to be precise!

After my spa treatment I hope to get some lunch and soak in the atmosphere of the luxurious hotel.

So what are you up to this Easter Saturday? Hope you have a nice relaxing day.

Send in your best things that you do for you. What helps recharge the batteries when you finally get some me time. Send in your comments.

Categories
Pre-School

Pre-School has started for 2013

My girls were upset last night when they realised that school went back today. They were asking if there friends would be there, these friends were the ones that are starting big school (Kindy) and of course I had to say no they will not be there. Although the girls will not see these friends at school we will catch up after school and on weekends.

I was worried that the girls might decide to stick their heels in and not want to go to school today to my annoyance, however this was not the case. I managed to get them dressed and ready for school earlier than expected. The girls were super excited and were wearing their new school bags and waiting for me to get all the things ready for the car.

It was good when we got to the school that one of the girls they are friends with was going again this year. They were very happy to see her and ignored me so I kissed both girls and said my goodbyes. Thank god they had a friend to distract them. 🙂

The twins new school bags
The twins new school bags
The The girls first day of school 2013
The girls first day of school 2013

This is the last year of pre-school for the girls. At the end of the year they will do transition to the big school and be getting ready for Kindy. As they are the bigger girls in the pre-school they will be tasked with showing the new kids around and of course meet and become friends with new kids.

My babies are growing up fast, and becoming such independent big girls. I am so proud and happy but at the same time it is a little sad my little girls are growing up so quickly.

Are you happy that school has gone back? What are you going to do while you have some free time? Do you race off to work or race around the house cleaning and sorting? Or is it your relaxation time to do your hobbies? Send in your comments.

Categories
4 years and beyond

Sunday Lunch

Bruschetta at Crinitis
Bruschetta at Crinitis

The blog lunch yesterday was a hit. I met some lovely ladies and had a nice relaxing lunch. Anything is nice and relaxing without kids.
I could be just sitting under a tree and if it is without any interuption it is a nice moment. Don’t get me wrong. I love kids and the girls but some quiet time and of course me time is needed every now and then.

The day was extremely hot and when I arrived to Parramatta it was 35.6 degrees so that is 96.08 fahrenheit (Very hot). I do like the heat but not when my car is out of air conditioning. I had to have all the windows down to have some air flow through the car.

I arrived and finally found a park at the local shopping centre and then walked to the resturarant. On arrival I was asked if I wanted a drink and as it was very hot of course I said yes. The down side of it being so hot was that I did not check the cost of the drinks as it was rather pricey to say the least.

One of the other bloggers ordered some bruschetta and it came on a pizza base. It was so yummy and moreish I could have just eaten more and more of that actually.

I ended up eating a salad as I am trying to watch what I eat and of course if you have been a reader of the blog noticed that I am trying to be slinky with the Project Slinky on and not going to fail until I drop as much as I can before May next year.  The salad was supposed to have heirloom tomatoes, basil, tuna, and chili but it was nearly all tomatoes and just a hint of tuna and not even worth listing it as an ingredient. However what I had in the bowl was tasty and enough for the time being.

It was nice to hear about others blogs, and lives and what is working for them. Keen to have another opportunity to network soon.

While driving home on the radio there were advertisements for a shop called pillow people. From the advertisement it was a place where they match you to the ideal pillow so that it can relive snoring and other issues. I could not make this connection and just had visions of actual pillow people trying to serve me in a shop. I have these amazing fantasies about things and then I cannot help but think of them as animations or actual weird people that should be in a kids show. Does this happen to you? Or is it just me?

Also while on the way home I tried to get some cotton for a dress that I am dying to take up as it is too long, but every shop I went to was closed. Very annoying. Now my car is sick and needs fixing. Maybe it was the big drive yesterday that hurt it. I have been told that it cannot be driven and needs to be fixed. Not sure how long I will have to wait for this to happen, and how this will impact me getting kids to and fro for school. The girls go to school two suburbs away so will need to drive as that is the fastest way. Maybe I will need to catch the train, although this will make sure to suck my whole day to myself away while waitng for public transport. Not good at all.

Anyways, I enjoyed the lunch and the food and the company was great. The place was well staffed although rather pricey.

If you would like to go to Crinitis, here are their details: 291 Church Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 http://www.crinitis.com.au/

Categories
4 years and beyond

Blog Lunch

Tomorrow I am off to a blog lunch to meet some other wonderful women that also blog. It will be nice to be out to have a meal without kids and also to the hubby. Networking and meeting more people is something that I am rather looking forward to, however I must admit that I am a tad nervous. Not sure if all these people know each other already, maybe they do? Some might not so no need to worry, you cannot expect everyone to know each other. That is the whole reason to network and get out there to meet new and interesting people.

Another thing is that tomorrow is going to be rather hot so will make sure to be dressed in a nice dress to not over heat. The weather here in Katoomba was very hot well for us it was but being in Parramatta it will definitely be even hotter, so that is something to watch for.

Do you do things that you are looking forward to but in the same breath you are a little nervous. I do. I know there is nothing to worry about and at the end of the day, I will have a nice day out without kids by myself and the other most important point is that I will meet some great and interesting people. So nothing to worry about and just need to focus on having fun and getting there on time.

I am sure it will all go well and looking forward to my time out. Also while out and about might get some cotton that matches my new dress so that I can take it up (It is way too long and shorter is the way to go, trust me). With this warm weather the more dresses for summer I have the better. Have you been out by yourself to meet new people lately? How did it go? Were you nervous? Send in comments and why not continue the discussion on our twitter or facebook pages.

 

Categories
4 years and beyond

Time For Me

Why is it when you suddenly have time for you, the slot fills with something else to do and you never get to do what you wanted to do? I am aiming to get some sewing done but first need to think about what I would like to create first. The dilemma is that I have many things in my head currently, will it be pants, a dress, or a skirt? Not sure. I want to learn to do something different, but this takes some time to sit and analyse how to do something new.

I have set up the dining room table and will get creating today and tonight as I am keen to do something. As I have finished my exam and waiting for summer school to start I have more free time. I just hope that I can achieve what is in my head, only time will tell. You know what it is like, you have grand plans that are in your brain but sometimes they don’t come out the way you envisioned. We will see.

Are you finding that as soon as you have a free bit of time you suddenly get busy? Does this impact your things that you have been hanging to do? It happens like that for me. Send in your comments.

 

Categories
3 years and beyond

Bad Behaviour

Upset Child
Upset Child

One of my girls seems to scratch her sister when she wants a toy, does not get her way or is just angry. This is not just confined to one of them; it does happen with both girls, although it is one child that does it more often.

I have been putting the offending child into time out, as this behaviour is not acceptable and I want it to stop.  Although bad, the behaviour got me thinking of why it is happening in the first place.

Is she angry, sad, or just not able to express herself to her sister or to me? I do ask her what the issue is and mostly I get tears and sad looks. She knows she has done wrong, however it still happens again and again.

I tell her that she can tell me anything, and that I will listen to what she has to say. I do get stories of wonderful things and sometimes I get the fact that sister has taken a toy, or pushed her and other such things. Then mummy has to dish out punishments all round.  Pity the twins don’t have separate rooms; this would make time out or punishments so much easier. You go to your room, and you go to yours! Perils of living in a small house I guess.

Are you in the same boat regarding this bad behaviour? I know it is the stage of the pre-schooler, but it is just a terrible situation as one child seems to get hurt more often than the other. I don’t want one to be traumatised due to me not acting quickly and making sure to put a stop to this naughtiness.  I do act quickly and make sure that the naughty person is in time out while the one that got hurt is cuddled and feeling the love.

Some great links that might help if you are in the same situation:

I am sure that I am doing what is right; I just wish it was making a difference now; maybe it just takes more time? Are you dealing with this at your home? Do you find that when you turn your back that World War 3 erupts?

Do you to tell the kids to be in different areas of the room so that they don’t hurt each other? Most of the time the girls are just lovely, I think this stage is just getting me down a bit.  It does get worse when the kids are tired and have had a long day. I suppose when I am tired I am not nice either.  Send in your comments, tips/tricks and stories.