Moms Need Books and Music

I know EXACTLY what you are talking about. When you become a mom, you have to redefine yourself quite a bit. But it doesn't mean you have to leave all of yourself behind! A couple of years ago, I got an i-Pod for Christmas and learned how to set up my own "playlist" of songs. I realized that I had spent the past 8 years listening to Mozart and ABC's to build my babies' brains and had forgotten about the music I really liked to listen to. I had a blast finding my favorite songs and making my playlists. It is amazing what listening to my own music does to my mood and "reconnecting" with myself.

Several years ago, my friend and I created a bookclub -- probably out of the same longings that you are concerned about. On the third Thursday of every month, we meet at Border's (so that no one has to worry about getting their house clean), pull chairs in a circle and talk about a book. It was the first time in a long time I had gotten together with people to talk about thoughts and ideas instead of raising children. I love to talk about raising my children, but it was a powerful feeling to let my mind go in another direction for awhile.

I hope these ideas can help you! You're smart to recognize that you don't want to lose yourself.

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