Finding ME Time.

I didn’t appreciate all the ‘free’ time I had in the days that I worked outside the home, until I no longer had that time. I used to use my commute to make mental lists, relax after a stressful day, and catch up on phone calls. Now, I spend my travel time singing silly songs, or playing the Tatiman’s ‘call & response’ game. (Him: Da. Me: DaDy. Him: DaDo. Me: MOM. Him: Dada…giggle giggle giggle). I used to be able to run out in between client meetings to drop off dry cleaning, or pickup a few groceries. Now, anywhere I go, the Tatiman (and his diaper bag, sippy cup, puff bowl and assorted toys) goes too.

Don’t get me wrong, I am in love with my current job. I get to wake up to the Tatiman’s babbling, cook and feed him nutritious foods, play games, take hikes, and spend time with other mommy friends. I really have zero complaints. But I have started to feel like I just need a minute to think, without babbling in the background. Or five minutes to make a list of things I want to accomplish, before it is the end of the day and I’m too exhausted to think. Or, most importantly, time to workout (and shower afterwards!) to start getting rid of those pounds I gained eating lunch out every day!!

I discussed my need with DH, and we came up with 2 options: (1) Taking the Tatiman back to daycare (or hiring a sitter) a few days a week, and (2) Getting up at the crack of dawn to get some time to myself.

We’ve settled on a hybrid approach. I hate the idea of sending the Tatiman to daycare. I think it is ridiculous for him to spend a day with somebody else when my job is to take care of him. On the other hand, one of his little buddies goes to the person who cared for the Tati while I was working—so the two of them can have a great time toddling together. The Tatiman is going to go have a “mommy free play day” (as I like to think of it) about once a week. The other days, I’m going to get up at 5:30. I got up that early all through law school to get in my workout and have some quiet time before my high stress days, and I actually think I function better when I get up and get going.

Hmmmm…so now I’ve done everything I planned to accomplish this morning, including writing this post. And, the Tatiman is still sleeping…I’m not sure what to do with myself! Any ideas?