As parents, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs. I don't know about you, but I've found all that "need" eventually makes me burn out if I don't make the effort to take care of myself too.
It's certainly a lot harder to fill your little one's emotional needs if your own emotional bank account is on empty.
So it's time to focus more on us! Here are eight ideas on how moms like us can find that important time for themselves, right here in the Adirondack's!
1. Enjoy lunch with a friend
Whether you stay at home or work outside the home, lunch is a great time to meet a friend. It helps break up the day and gives you renewed energy to face the rest of your day. One of my favorites, that includes a GREAT salad bar is The Log Jam across from the outlets in Lake George. They describe themselves as "“Casual Adirondack Dining.” and are the perfect spot if you need
(or want) to do a little shopping at the Outlets!
2. Find your "people"
Join a local parenting group on Facebook, get together with other parents from your child's school, or find a local club or organization that matches your interests. In my opinion, the best place to find your people would be the Macaroni Kid Adirondacks NY Facebook page! We like to get in conversations, ask and answer each other questions, share local info, and more! :)
3. Schedule a spa day
Relax, lie back, and feel your everyday concerns wash away with a spa day at The Adirondack Salt Cave! They offer services such as Swedish and Deep Tissue Massages, Cupping, Halotherapy, and more! Your newly energized self will thank you.
4. 'Treat' Yourself
a sweet treat is sure to increase your dopamine, effectively putting you in a fantastic mood! One of the best
places for Ice Cream is Martha's Dandee Cream across from The Great Escape in Queensbury. Featured on "The Today Show" For their delicious treats, their wide variety menu and extra generous sizes make them a step above the rest.
5. Try doing a fun hobby or activity!
It's easy to get bogged down with all of life's "busyness." Take a little time away and explore an activity or hobby you've always wanted to try. From individual hobbies like photography or crochet, to group activities like paint nights, or yoga classes, there's something for everyone. Try this local Wine Tasting this weekend at the Adirondack Winery!
6. Plan a romantic date night
Enlist the help of grandparents or exchange date night babysitting with a friend. Have dinner at your favorite restaurant, enjoy a movie or theater performance, or take a walk outdoors at sunset. A great BBQ spot right in Lake George is The Barnsider. Where you go doesn't matter, but having your partner along will make the night special.
7. Savor the solitude
Spending time alone is good for the soul. Read a book after the kids are in bed or at school, take a walk in your neighborhood alone, or relax in a nice warm bubble bath. Don't feel like you always have to be doing something "productive."
8. Check the Adirondacks NY Macaroni Kid calendar!
There are so many fun family-friendly events near the Lake George, Queensbury, Glens Falls and surrounding towns and areas, many of which are also perfect to attend alone, with a friend, or with your partner. Take a few minutes out of your busy life and charge your emotional battery by doing something you enjoy — even if you don't take the kids!
Taking care of yourself is so important, and not something to be overlooked. I've found that taking care of myself helps make me happier and healthier -- which, in turn, makes me a better mom at the end of the day!
