This was a difficult article to write because to be honest, when I had small children all I wanted to do was be MOM. And as a home school mom I had to work part time at minimum to have the extra money to fund field trips, classes, and sports. That’s why I ran a day care and worked at night; A. to earn a little extra cash and B. to get out of the house for a bit. However, I didn’t think about my future during this time, only the children’s. So after hearing from my customers these past couple of years it hit me like a ton of bricks! And this article is how the Lord spoke to me about my future and yours.   The premise: You’re allowed to enjoy life and be your own person. I think we forget who we are when we're raising a family. At least that's what some ladies have been saying to me. And for me I am most comfortable when all I have to do is be mom so I didn’t think of my future when my children were young. I hope you take this article as it is meant, from my heart to yours.   "You are woman! Hear you roar!" Do you remember before kids who you were; who you wanted to be? When kids come along many women replace their roar with nurturing and love for their child. They also give up many things they love. It's wonderful to love your children. However, there will come a time when the children grow up and move out and you'll have to love yourself.   Things are somewhat simple when the children are little. You know what you're job is. "You are MOM! Hear you giggle." It's easy to get caught up in the act of being a mom. You get involved with other parents of children the ages of your own. Most of this phase of your life revolves around the children. And that’s the way it’s supposed to be. After a while your kids get older and you may lose sight of who you are because you're so busy helping them become who they are. You're moving in and out of so many phases that you end up with blurred lines of where the kids end and you begin. Also, your children need to see you doing fun things without them so they learn to respect that while you’re their mom, you’re also a woman.   I want to make sure to convey that Motherhood is a precious gift and awesome responsibility that you should be proud of. However, you need to be reminded to take time out to be the woman that you were, are, and want to be. When your only focus is your children, others get left out. Sometimes that includes you and/or your spouse. So here's where I tell you to get "hot on relationships!"   Women need other women. It’s just a fact. It's important to find other likeminded women to share with and listen to. It’s important to take time with your spouse. And it’s also important to take time for yourself; for things that make you feel good and keep that part of you alive for when the kids grow up and move out.   Here are just a few examples of things you can do to get “hot on relationships”: 1. Spend at least 1 hour a week on a hobby you enjoy. 2. Invite a friend out at least once a month to catch up. 3. Go on a date with your spouse. 4. Take in a movie alone. (I’ve done it and it was so nice, really!) 5. Call one of your parents or siblings. If possible make plans to get together. 6. Go on separate dates with each child so they get to know you away from the house. Growing relationships that last after the kids are gone is an important aspect of life that often is not thought of until it’s too late. So think about the life you want when the kids are not around that much any more. And start building upon that aspect today.   ©2006 Susie Glennan   Susie Glennan has been happily married since 1982, is mom to 3, and is a Home Maker, Teacher, Author, Professional Speaker, Toastmaster, President of The Busy Woman, Inc., DBA - The Busy Woman's Daily Planner®. She teaches time management seminars, offers FREE consultations with your order, and will help you set up a schedule that's right for you. 800-848-7715 www.thebusywoman.com

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