Mommy Minute is a short look at Mommy life that other Moms can truly understand.
Moms, why do we find it so hard to treat ourselves? We spend most days taking care of our kids, partners and parents, so we all know how to take care of people. When it comes to ourselves, why do we find it so difficult?
When my husband informed me we were going to attend a fundraiser where we would dine on a royal feast designed by Christian Garcia, Head Chef of his Serene Highness the Prince Albert II of Monaco. My response was “can’t you take your brother?”
My response wasn’t because I didn’t like the organization (One Drop is a very worthy cause that provides access to safe water around the globe). It was because of the work the night would require, like finding a sitter, getting kids homework done and getting downtown at a reasonable time or having to make small talk with strangers. The work required to get a mom who lives in jogging pants dressed up for a night, was too much for me. That’s when it hit me. When did I stop taking care of myself? Why was I no longer surprised when other moms complimented me on looking great when all I had done was brush my hair? When did I stop even looking at myself in the mirror before I left the house?
I decided to go outside my comfort zone and take this event on as a personal challenge to be seen in public. But where to start?
Phase 0
Since I’m a mom, I put off finding an outfit until a few days before. This meant I had to put my preferred method of amazon shopping aside and go to an actual store! This was probably the hardest part of the experience. I tried to remember the last time I had been in a store without my kids. I couldn’t.
Mommy Minute
After many fails and too many emails to my fashionista friend for input, the day ended with outfit, shoes and jewelry accomplished. This success got me thinking maybe I could do this!
Then came the day of the event.
Phase 1
I was in desperate need of a haircut, who am I kidding… I was in desperate need of the relaxing shampoo and massage before the haircut! It’s easy to see why women go weekly to get their hair styled.
Leaving the salon I felt confident. Asking myself why don’t I do this more often? And telling myself, I am for sure going to do this more often.
Phase 2
Around 2 years ago I took a make-up lesson but rarely wear make-up other than a bit of eye shadow to ensure I’m not mistaken for a cast member of the Walking Dead. So next stop was Sephora to get made prettier.
She was a true artist who made me feel like I have been using kids coloring paints on my face. The only sadness I had about the experience was knowing that I would never be able to replicate this at home.
Phase 3
This was it. The time had come to go to the party. Driving to the Ritz Carlton I realized that although getting ready took WAY longer than expected, and not something I could do every day, it was nice to pamper myself. No fighting kids, homework or coughs and colds that needed tending. It was just a few hours where others focused on me.
Moms out there we need to take care of ourselves and let others take care of us. Don’t let it be where you leave the house every day without even looking in a mirror. It may take a village to get us out the door every now and then, but WE ARE WORTH IT!
I once heard someone say they dress up to show respect for others they will see that day. Show others respect and respect yourself – you deserve it!
