Search Results for: blog never underestimate the power of baths and naps

Make Sure You Play as Hard as You Work

I know I may be preaching to the choir, but we single parents tend to be a hard-working lot. When we do allow ourselves a little fun and play, “little” may be the operative word. A laugh with friends here, a dinner or movie out there. All in all, we don’t really let our hair down. Perhaps it is for fear of losing control or being irresponsible; or perhaps it is that some of us are combating that myth of the “partying” single parent. Regardless, if we want our lives to feel healthy and balanced, we need to learn how … Continue reading →

Self-Care Can be in the Details

I would love a long, pampering, luxurious vacation as much as the next guy or gal, but on for this frugal, single parent it is not really in my future as far as I can see. What I have learned over the years (although I often forget and have to remind myself) is that self-care and personal health can really be in the most ordinary daily details. A little bit of looking after oneself can go a long way. I am not just talking about hot baths and nice lotions here, but also learning how to say “no” and protect … Continue reading →

What Do I Do in My Spare Time?

The other day I was chatting with someone whom I had just met. This person asked me what would be considered a pretty common get-to-know-you sort of question: “What do you do in your spare time?” I couldn’t help chuckling; anyone who knows I am a single parent with three kids would probably not have asked me about my “spare time”… If truth be told, there was a time when I lamented my nonexistent free time. Years ago, when I was much younger (and my kids were too), I missed my free time something fierce! There were weeks when I … Continue reading →

Can You Live Without Alone Time (At Least for a While)?

I find that when I talk to new parents—whether they are partnered or single parents—one of the first and main topics that come up is how to find time to be alone. Not alone “as a couple” but genuine, all-by-ourselves, no one hanging on us or asking for anything alone time. Well, sometimes it just isn’t possible… One thing that has helped me over the years is realizing that “alone time” is somewhat culturally constructed. Different societies, tribes, and cultures have different ideas about being alone. There are those societies where the children are either strapped to, or attached to … Continue reading →

Never Underestimate the Power of Baths and Naps

As single parents, we are often in need of a little rest and respite. Sure a week or two laying on a warm beach or curled up in a secluded cabin with someone waiting on our every need might be nice–but not very practical or likely for most of us. After nearly two decades of parenting, working, and “the drill”–I have learned that a warm, sudsy bath or a little nap can do wonders to keep this single parent functioning. It might sound obvious and simple–but slipping into a warm bath and soaking for ten minutes after work or before … Continue reading →