quick clicks

preschoolers today articles

preschoolers today q&a

children today articles

children today q&a

community & groups

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

Back to School Blues?

Can Mama Get Her Groove Back?

By Linda Sharp

C. Nothing. I surprised my husband at work and whisked him away to a No-tel Motel for some afternoon delight.

8. When school is in session do you find it easier to balance being a mom, housekeeper, wife, classroom volunteer, friend and lover?
A. Balance? Ha! On the balance beam of life, I just pray the floor is padded every time I fall off!
B. Yes, my sanity is slightly restored. I am also calmer at the end of the day. (However, that could be the Prozac talking.)
C. I juggle all my roles so easily, I should get a job with the Cirque du Soleil!

Your Score:

Girlfriend, you need to look in the mirror and tell the person staring back, "I Deserve a life too!" Yes, your kids and family are your priority, but your sanity is at stake here. You are not their property! It is time to take a stand and put some FUN into your strictly functional life.

While you are aware of your own worth, you still play the guilt game and give up a little too much of your free time. Your children and spouse will be better off if you invest a little more in yourself and a little less in being everyone's facilitator.

Stella ain't got nothing on you, girlfriend! Your stretchmarks say you have earned the right to enjoy your free time, guilt free! You still buy the toilet paper at Wal-Mart, but you look damned good doing it! Groove on!

Want to see more?

• Even Super Mom Needs a Break: Finding Time for You
• Jump Starting the School Year
• Back to School Tips From the American Academy of Pediatrics
• Talk about it!