Six words

I have been tagged by my friends Sandra and Tammie to "Describe your life in only 6 words..." I love the 6 words they have each selected to describe their lives. I thought it would be a pretty easy task, but turned out it took some thinkin' on my part!

Time Alone Required for Healthy Relationships

I've always known that I need my "me" time. I've often thought it was a selfish thing on my part and felt guilty when I wanted time alone. I'd tell myself that I choose to be a mom and thought there was something wrong with me when I secretly enjoyed the times Perry took the kids out to do someting and I was left at home by myself.

There are many days where I feel like I give everything to my husband, my kids, my family, my co-workers, my employer and there's nothing left for me. My energy is sapped and I can't seem to get my mojo going. I feel disorganized (maybe because I'm focused on everyone else's needs) and like I'm going in too many different directions. Projects drag out forever and I don't feel on top of my game.

Perry took the kids to Chicago last week and I ended up with 3 days alone in my house. I debated taking some vacation time (again, feeling guilty that I should be using my vacation time for time with my family). I did take some time off work and that time alone was so good for me. I worked at my pace around the house without feeling pulled in different directions (mom, I need this....mom, where is that....mom, can I do this....) I felt energized again and ready to face the world.

In addition to "me" time, I crave time alone with each child. That one on one time is so critical to my relationship with them. They open up about things in those one on one settings that they aren't willing to otherwise. Even something as simple as taking the dogs for a walk and bringing one child along.

Perry and I also need that time alone but we struggle with finding that time. We do have a date coming up for our anniversary and I'm looking forward to it.

So...some folks are energized by social settings and by other people. I'm energized by the times I can sink into my thoughts and be alone. And, I'm learning that's OK and not something I should feel guilty about.

I'm supposed to tag some other friends. If you are reading this, I challenge YOU to describe YOUR life in 6 words....