This Mother’s Day, as your family gives you their appreciation, be sure to give a bit of time to yourself. The nation will celebrate its mothers this week and now is a great time to read some helpful books on the subject.
"The Happiest Mom: 10 Secrets to Enjoying Motherhood," by Meagan Francis, is a great book to pick up if you want to be, well, happier. On her blog, the author writes quite a bit about pressures parents face and how they can lead to unhappiness and expectations. Meagan often reminds her readers that “only you can make yourself happy,” and gives specific stories and examples to illustrate.
Citing how moms often end up sacrificing themselves for their families and end up miserable, she tells the story of how she went to a restaurant and watched her family enjoy hot food while she accidentally poured water on hers. She was fuming, until she realized that her anger and misery was a choice. She ordered breakfast to go, calmed down, and everyone was happy. “Imagine how much happier we’d all be if we let moments of anger be just that: moments. And then went on to embrace the humor in the unexpected, the love of our families, and the freshly-baked cherry turnover,” she writes.
So if you’re looking for some encouragement this Mother’s Day, pour yourself a favorite beverage, prop up your feet, and be sure to check out "The Happiest Mom: 10 Secrets to Enjoying Motherhood."
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Need a budget-friendly babysitter? Try swapping with another local mom. If you want an evening out one week, ask if she would watch your kids if you would trade the next week. Be sure to set realistic expectations and discuss specifics, but you may find a long term solution that can benefit both families.