I have a number of posts bubbling in my head that I'm very keen to write, but this isn't one of them. I have thrown myself into turmoil, all in my own head. I seem to be in a state of over-whelmed, deer in the head lights angst.
In my wisdom, I decided to send my youngest to a different school to her sibling when she started school this week. This requires me to be in two places at once, twice a day. Logistically it is possible, if extremely organised, but because I don't know anything about the new school, this morning, while we were on time, we were actually 'late' because I couldn't find where they meant her class would line up for the morning lines. My stress over this was disproportionate to the actual issue. My youngest wasn't even very concerned, but I had blown it up into a big deal internally.
The pick ups are harder, and require nothing to upset the apple cart. Yesterday, on the first day of kindy, they came out SIX minutes late. I have timed the drive between schools and SIX minutes is NOT good for the logistics. At 3pm, I am now a massive clock watcher! Every second ticks by and my agitation builds.
It is early days, and we will get a smooth routine, but currently I am acting more childish than the children involved.
So today, I took the day off. Well, actually I took the morning off. I went for a swim and sat in the spa, reading my book. Then I got lunch at Mr Chows in the Rocks, to satisfy a hankering for Chinese food that I've had for a few days. (Where do people get Chinese food from these days?) I even did some exercise.
We did the pick up in record time - not speeding. In fact child number two required to be dragged away from his friends.
So, new kindy mums that are finding things a little overwhelming, here's my advice:
Treat Yo Self!
Pick a day, next week, and take the day off. If you have little ones, let them watch tv while you read in the bath. If you have really, really little ones, just don't tidy up when they sleep or do anything practical. Do something for you. If you like a certain food, allow yourself that indulgence while you watch a movie - whatever takes your fancy. You will feel so much better for it, and for some reason, those difficult things will seem easier.
If your budget allows, follow the advice of the originators of Treat Yo Self!
You have my permission. If anyone complains, explain it's an official celebration and no one should be persecuted for their beliefs.
Next time, I'll include Mimosas on my list...
Linking up with this indulgence with some Grace for FYBF. Normal transmission will resume next week. Hopefully.
God, how I would love a day off. Good on you for treating yourself. I can understand how stressful the two drop offs must be and how easily things can feel like they're getting out of control. It will all fall into place in a few months and you'll wonder why you were so stressed. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteGreat advice, Lydia. So can I send my kids over to yours if they hassle me whilst having a candlelit bath? ;) Kx
ReplyDeleteI can't stand it when my routine gets affected haha. Some good advice there though, now I feel like Chinese!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great thing to do. Its amazing how we get ourselves all "het" up around these things but timings is such a crucial part of our day - I feel like my days are ruled by the clock. Nice to see someone taking time out and getting back to it with a fresh head!
ReplyDeleteOh, what lovely advice! I have to say, putting on the TV and having a bath sounds pretty good right now!!
ReplyDeleteDont mind if I do. I sent off two TAFE assignments this morning and promptly took myself out for lunch at a hipster cafe.
ReplyDeleteWe are on our last year of crazy drop off and pick up at two different places, cannot wait for next year when they are both at the same school! I really like the idea of doing something for yourself, and not something "practical" - how often we forget to treat ourselves and then wonder why we fall into a heap of anxiety and exhaustion! xx
ReplyDeleteOn your advice I WILL treat myself this week! I deserve it!
ReplyDeleteI need my indulgence during the day once in awhile. Whether it's to see an afternoon movie matinee or go for a mani/pedi…I just need to do it to survive the whirlwind of pickup/dinner/bath/bed...
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