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12 Ideas for Moms to Make Time for Themselves

Need a little more time for yourself? How about these 12 ideas you can do today!

Sometimes I forget how great it can be to step outside our normal routines and make time for something out of the ordinary for ourselves. A couple weekends ago, gift certificate in hand from Christmas (that I finally used), I attended a Saturday morning cooking class focused on Parisian food in spring.

I thought about going with a friend, but they were all busy or not interested in spending a decent amount of money (because the classes can be a bit expensive) on a cooking class. I wanted to use my gift certificate before we move, and I really didn’t mind attending alone. I actually looked forward to it a bit knowing it would really be a class all about doing whatever the heck I wanted to do. As a parent and employee, friend, sister and daughter, that doesn’t happen that often. I’m sure you all can relate.

Instructor teaching at The Chopping Block in Chicago

The instructor paired me up with another guy who also attended alone. We chatted for much of the class from everything about the amazing camera he brought with him to his childhood growing up in the Philadelphia suburbs not far from where we will soon live.

Leek, fennel and goat cheese flatbread

In the class, we made Sautéed Leek and Fennel Puff Pastry Tart with Goat Cheese and Strawberry Almond Cake, among other things.

straberry french dessertsDinner at the Chopping Block

A cooking class might not be your jam, but take some time over the next few weeks or month to do something for yourself.

Here are just a few suggestions:

1. Photography walk ~ Head outside by yourself and take just your camera. Check out your world through a whole new lens.

Navy Pier Ferris Wheel over Lake Michigan

2. Cooking class ~ It’s an investment in yourself and your cooking as well as a little break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

3. Exercise class ~ Long term health benefits aside, it just makes us feel good. And who doesn’t want to shake their booty, just a bit, when it’s socially acceptable?!

4. Bake yourself a batch of cookies (or your favorite dessert) ~ Although it may not be for everyone, the act of baking is a bit therapeutic for me. When I have a chance to get creative in a quiet kitchen, I really enjoy it. Here are a few of my favorite desserts.

5. Run a 5k ~ There’s something about participating in the actual race that’s so much more exciting than even the prettiest of typical runs.

Sears Tower through the trees on Lake Michigan

6. Go for a hike in your local area ~ Any type of area works, as long as it’s one your interested in exploring.

Boats in the Marina on Lake Michigan

7. Visit a garden or arboretum ~ These are often so pretty, pristine and serene. Last year, I spent half a day at the Chicago Botanic Gardens, just because.

8. Massage or pedicure ~ Does this one even need explaining? Ha.

9. Enjoy a cup of coffee at your favorite coffee shop ~ People watch. Soak it all in. And if you’re a coffee drinker, indulge in your favorite drink.

10. Take a long bath ~ Maybe add epsom salt, essential oils, or just some basic bubbles.

11. Leave the house early one morning to catch the sunrise ~ I definitely need to do this one day, although I’m not much of a morning person… gonna have to think about this one.

12. Take an art class (pottery, wine and paint, etc…) ~ You may even do this one with friends, if you’re feeling ambitious.

Know a friend who might like these ideas? Share this post with them!

Need a little more time for yourself? How about these 12 ideas you can do today!

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3 Comments

    1. That’s great! And I agree. 🙂 Baking is my favorite, but even cooking is a nice time to get creative on our own. Thanks for the note!

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