Do you find yourself pre-occupied by household chores, children’s homework and your husband’s stress? Has it been a while since you discovered “new territory” in your life?  God has created a world full of joy and new things. It is up to you to keep your desire to learn, to be a student of those areas that fascinate you. A wise mother does not neglect her own life. Make a date with your favorite babysitter and try a few of these mom-savers:

1.  Take a free trip. Not everyone can afford to hop on a plane and travel the world, but you can go to the library and check out those glossy travel books. Try taking them to a café, order a latte and immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery for a few hours.

2.  Read a good book. Check out the bestseller list or take a suggestion from a good friend and find yourself a good book. Throw the book in your purse and you can make time for yourself while you wait for kids during their music lesson, or while they are doing their homework. It is amazing how many books you can read in spare moments like these.

3. Get involved at school. Why not become a volunteer at the school where your kids attend? Be a “classroom mom,” assist with school activities or help the teachers with set-up. You will be surprised how many interesting and fresh ideas you can come up with. You can learn new things and improve the education system, too.

4.  Experiment in the kitchen. They say a great marriage begins in the kitchen. Don’t give up on trying out new recipes. Go to the library and find a good cookbook and try something your family hasn’t had before.

5.  Enjoy music. Whether it is listening to a live symphony or chorus, or a new CD or just your favorite radio station, listening to music adds a new dimension to the day. In the car or around the house, give yourself something to listen to. Consider taking a music appreciation class or even piano lessons.

6. Get moving. Everyone knows the importance of exercise, but we forget that it can also be a great way to spend time together. Get in shape with your husband or a friend, sign up for a fitness program, or join a league together. We hold the key to our own health.  If you make exercise a fun and enjoyable part of the day, you’re more likely to stick with it.

All too often, mothers stretch themselves too far trying to meet the needs of everyone in the family. In doing so, they become burned out, desperate and detached. While you may feel guilty making time for yourself, realize that it’s vital for your well being and for your family’s, too. Don’t forget to grow!