On my first day back to class this semester I had a professor tell me, “something is different about you, you have a different glow than you had last semester.”

Crazy to think how fast and slow my break from mommying went by. Also crazy to think how effective the break was for me. I remember calling my cousins earlier this year for motivation to send Aiden to Michigan with his dad for the summer. And as you may recall, in my last entry as well as others, I stress just how important it is to take a break, and here I was finding ways to make myself feel guilty for needing one. Without doing anything spectacular, having a break allowed me to explore myself outside of mommy hood. Whatever your version of a break may be, do not be afraid or embarrassed to take it. Being a mommy is a JOB, you are an EMPLOYEE, and you have a boss who would love you the same whether you choose to stay with them 24/7 or exercise your motherly right in taking a break.

During my three month break, I was able to experience small things that you no longer have once you cross over into mommy life. Things such as, being able to get up and go, engaging in last minute plans, having my own sleep routine, not having to wake up an hour early to get ready for the day, freely scheduling appointments, leaving the house without making additional arrangements, quietness, stillness, and more. All may seem like very simple things, to those who are not mommies, but for those of you that are, you know it serves as a huge release to be able to move freely when given the chance. Or to even spend time alone in your thoughts without hearing the words, “mommy, mom, or ma.” Aside from the “small” things, the break also supported me in developing new business ideas, making exceptional progress on my first book, learning a new skill, I’ve read more books than I have in years, I’ve began meditating, and just so much more.

Truthfully speaking, this break has made me feel refreshed and renewed. I don’t say this to brag, boast, or make mommies who don’t have the option, feel bad. I say this to encourage mommies to let go of the guilt built around taking time off, if it is available to you. I have previously stated how important it is to re-learn and re-develop yourself as an individual once you cross over into this mommy life. If it means for good, no matter the age of your child(ren), take that break that is calling your name. You’d be amazed at what it does for you. I could write for days about how my entire mindset has changed over this summer break, (but I would rather show you how much work I have put in) & believe me it is coming soon!

From being recognized for having a “different glow,” being more in tune with myself, and having developed so much mentally and literally, I feel as if I am in the best shape to get back to the swing of my mommy duties. I am sure September’s post will be all about us re-learning each other’s space as he has also grown beyond what I imagined he would!