Some Me Time

We've all heard the 'experts'. When it comes to motherhood, we, as moms, must take time for ourselves. It's imperative to do so. Take care of yourself and you'll be in better shape to take care of your family.

I know it's true. But while it's sound advice, most busy moms barely have enough time in the day left over themselves. And as my family grows, time for me gets put on the back burner. Family comes first in this house. First my kids, then my hubby, then me. Sound familiar?

Well, today I got a 'break'. It's been a LONG time since I've been anywhere 'fun' without my kids, and I'm not talking about going to the store or the farmer's market either. My 'me' time was WAY overdue. I did feel like I was missing a piece of me though. It felt odd. I was a whole cake, with a slice missing... so I didn't feel 'whole'. But I enjoyed myself nonetheless.

It was a short outing... a mere 4 hours or so. But I promise myself I will make it a regular thing to take some time for me from now on. I am not JUST a mother. I am Carina. I used to be this carefree, fun loving, social butterfly. I know the old me is trapped inside the 'mom' me just dying to break free. And I'm ready to let her loose, just a little at a time though... don't wanna go crazy! : )

So what do I do with my free time. I shop, of course. I hadn't really planned on going shopping. It kinda just happened (oops! that's what I get for window shopping while I have money in my purse).

You would think I would try and do something that I can't do when I'm with my kids though, like go to a movie or something. And I HAD planned on going to a little cafe, just sitting at one of the tables, reading a magazine and slowly sipping on something sweet and chocolate-y... drinking in the peace and quiet. But I was with a friend and she wanted to head downtown. Since I hadn't been downtown in a LONG while, I was more than happy to oblige.

Shopping in downtown San Jose is a real treat for me. I love all the people, the atmosphere, the stores and especially the bargains. I tell you, there are so many great stores there, you can't just stop at one... although to save some time, you have to be selective. Like which stores will give you the most bang for your meager buck. You want a better deal than $7 for a pair of baby sandals... just walk a few blocks to another store. Finding deals are easy, and for a bargain hunter like me (what stay at home mother on a budget isn't), it's all about the best deals at the best prices.

I had fun. But true to my nature, I only bought stuff for my kids. It's hard shopping for myself sometimes. Next trip, I promise. We had lunch at Vishnu Restaurant, a vegetarian spot. I had the (huge) vegetarian burger with fries (so delicious... and I forgot to take pics) and an iced tea (te frio). I was satisfied and ready to head home. After all that shopping and being 'free' we both missed our kids. It was a Sunday well spent.