As a homeschooling mom of four, I know what it means to reach burnout. I have to be very conscious of taking care of myself or I end up exhausted, frustrated and cranky.
We all need time to replenish what we’ve given out, but sometimes the problem is finding the time and money in the budget. When you can’t get away for a full vacation, try these ten low cost Momcation ideas.
Take a Walk — Enjoy a local park, trail or nature center by yourself. Taking the time to breathe fresh air and enjoy nature is a great stress reliever.
Make a Specialty Drink — Make a juice spritzer with 1/2 a glass of chilled seltzer water and 1/2 a glass of your favorite juice. Serve in a wine glass garnished with a slice of lime or lemon, and sip slowly in a quiet location.
Sit on the Porch — Take a few minutes after dinner to sit on your porch or patio and enjoy the sunset.
Read Something Frivolous — Take a look at the comics, or check out a library book about flower arranging.
Browse A Shop — Go to a shop with items outside of your budget. Instead of being discouraged, look at the items with a creative eye.
Enjoy a Treat — Find a food that you really like and enjoy it once a week. Savoring a piece of imported chocolate or a scoop of gourmet ice cream may be just the thing to lift your spirit.
Go Thrift Shopping — Visit a thrift shop or yard sales to look at items you wouldn’t normally buy. Those 70’s record albums and velvet Elvis wall hangings can really make you appreciate what you have now.
Have a Good Laugh — Watch funny videos on You Tube or a t.v. comedy rerun. Laughter is good medicine after all!
Watch a Girly Movie — Put the kids to bed or have dad take them out for a treat while you enjoy a good movie all by yourself. Movies can be checked out at your local library or rented from Redbox for around $1.00. Just make sure to return the dvd on time to avoid extra fees!
Phone a Friend — All of these suggestions are just made better with a friend. Girl talk is highly under-rated.
Momcationing doesn’t have to cost a lot, but the rewards are priceless.
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Love this post! Thanks so much for these ideas! I especially like the browsing idea! I might have to do that this weekend.
If I might add one? I have recently started reading “A Mother’s Heart” by Jean Fleming & it is so full of encouragement, I am recommending it to every mom! Some times when I am feeling discouraged or disenchanted with our decision for me to stay home and teach our children, I will pick up Fleming’s book & drink in her biblical encouragement. The whole concept is basically that home is a mission field & it’s a great opportunity to make an eternal impact on our childrens’ hearts. (In line with your frugal series going on right now – I got my copy from abebooks for less than 4$ shipping included!)
Loooove your blog, by the way!
Thanks so much for that recommendation Julie (and way to go for getting it used). 🙂
These are great ideas! I need a momcation as we speak…as I am expecting my sixth baby and am dealing with a lot of stress since my hubby was laid off. I need to try some of these thanks!
So sorry about your husband being laid off Mystiqua, but congratulations on your new baby. God is faithful. I pray that He will make a way for you!
Take a bubble bath with candles! My sweet husband will surprise me when I’m over stressed by filling the tub and lighting the candles. He always makes sure I have at least 30 minutes to just breathe. Also a great time to pray and leave your burdens with the Lord.
Oh I miss my garden tub! I really love taking a bubble bath and it is a great time to pray. 🙂
I’m a new follower from blog frog, love your blog and this post, everyone needs a way to “take a vacation” I read a book and give myself a mani/pedi.
Great idea-I didn’t think about the mani-pedi! Thanks Andrea.