Hello Everyone

Now that you are all have had your fill of turkey, or, whatever else that you may have indulged in, it’s time to start a brand new year!  It is now time to give you “Me Time “.

I find people, and this includes myself, do not give themselves any time to do what you want to do. We are such a busy generation. If we are parents it’s all about the kids and/or grandchildren. If we are single, it’s usually about our families, friends or work. Volunteers tend to burn out because they are always doing for others.

I received some good advice from a friend and decided that I need to take back some time for myself. It’s good for the soul. I make sure that I take at least three hours a week for myself. I either go have a long bubble bath or get my nails done. The point is to relax and enjoy something that is just for you. I have found that in the last month since I have started to do this I have become a much happier person. I enjoy more things - I don’t worry as much. Family members can still manage without you for that short period of time. It will make them more independent.

If you are a single parent, see if you can get a babysitter for a couple of hours so that you could just go for a walk or perhaps take a book and get yourself a coffee and sit and read. There are a lot of possibilities available.

Just think how much happier you will be and how much that will impact on the others around you. They may decide that they are much better off now that you are taking care of you.

Kids need this as well. They are so busy with school and sports, etc. Let them have an hour every third day whether it’s just reading or playing in the park or perhaps just having you to themselves for that hour without anybody else.

This could relieve some of the stress in your life.

Dawn Banner

President