This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Weave Made Media®, PEOPLE® and PEOPLE StyleWatch®, but all my opinions are my own. #weavemade #MeTimeMags http://my-disclosur.es/RgFrEH
I’m a busy mama, wife, woman, person and I know I’m not alone. I was just talking with a friend today about how we don’t take time out for ourselves. I don’t want to be away from my family, but I do want to take a few precious minutes to enjoy some “me time”, relax and recharge. About a year ago I finally figured out how to sneak an hour or two of “me time” in each week. Shhh, don’t tell my family, but I’ll share my secret with you. It all starts when you make a “me time” To Go Bag.
If you’re anything like me, you spend hours each week waiting for kids at doctor appointments, dentist appointments, orthodontist appointments, before and after school, at activities, and so much more. I used to take work to do when I was waiting or spent it on my phone. A year or so ago, I realized that I will always find time to get work done, but often won’t find the time to just relax and do something uninterrupted that I want to do. You know, that wondrous thing called “me time.” That’s when I decided to organize a “me time” bag that is always ready to go. As I’m running out the door to yet another appointment or activity, I simply grab my “me time” bag and I’m ready to steal enjoy some “me time” while I’m waiting. I don’t even feel guilty about enjoying my “me time” (and I shouldn’t feel guilty… but I do) because I have to wait for my children anyway.
I keep my bag packed and ready to go, except for my favorite sparkling water that’s waiting in the fridge. I love this cute little bag and it makes me happy every time I grab it to run out the door. I keep healthier treats, like peppermints, in my bag. I want to treat myself, but still keep it healthy. I always have a needlework project that I’m working on and I keep it in my bag. I also keep a journal and a favorite pen in my bag. I have rarely made time since my teens to do my nails, so now I keep a file and fun polish in my bag. If I’m sitting in the car at soccer practice, I can paint all 20 nails while I’m waiting. Ahh, the joy! But my favorite treat for my “me time” is stashing a couple of magazine to read. There is something so enjoyable about turning the pages of a magazine while sipping sparkling water and eating a treat. My favorite magazine these days is PEOPLE StyleWatch (could it be because I have 2 teen daughters interested in fashion?). I just love pouring over the fashion tips and photos. Of course, PEOPLE magazine has always been a fun treat to read. I used to only read it in the hair salon, but now I treat myself to my own copy now and then.
Lucky for me and you, there’s a coupon for $1 off one PEOPLE, PEOPLE StyleWatch, Sunset and InStyle magazine available through the Just4U online portal from October 23, 2014 through November 20, 2014 (while supplies last).
I grabbed my coupon (you have to register for Just4U to access the digital coupon, but it’s easy to do) and popped over Safeway to grab a few things.
I packed my “Me Time” To Go Bag with my new magazines and it sits ready to go in my coat closet for soccer practice tonight…and the doctor appointment tomorrow…and my daughter’s 3 hour drama review next week and …
I bet you have a few appointments and activities that you could use to enjoy some “me time.” Put together your own “me time” to go bag and take that time for yourself, you deserve it!
Holly @ Coconutheadsurvivalguide says
Hi Susan – I love this idea, and you are so right about us not taking enough time for ourselves. I wonder how many hours a week the average mom spends waiting for their kids that they could be using this time to relax and take a little time for themselves. Hugs, Holly
susan says
Us moms have got to stick together, Holly. We all deserve a bit of me time.
Cynthia says
I love this idea! I actually made a “Me Time” bag yesterday. I had to sit in the doctor’s office and that is no fun. I love the magazine idea – I need to remember that!
Andrea says
I love love this idea! I definitely have my share of practices and appointments, but I also commute to work, so I don’t frequently have lunch plans. I think I’ll make a bag to bring to work with me for lunch breaks!
susan says
You’ll enjoy your lunch time so much more, Andrea. Wish we could meet for lunch!