This weekend I did something momentous. Something I feared was no longer a part of my life. I went out with my girlfriends! I know this sounds crazy but I haven’t been out since my first child was born. I don’t mean out for dinner or a movie I mean OUT. We got dressed up, put some make-up on, had a cocktail and went out. I was nervous at first leaving my kids overnight with my mom but once they were gone, the excitement kicked in.
It’s funny, I hadn’t realized how much I missed "me" until that night. The last 3+ years I have focussed so much on being a mom that I lost sight of myself a bit. I hear moms, especially those with older kids, talk about how we are still the women we used to be just with kids but I wasn’t so sure. Looking at my life now it barely resembles the life I had before. Strangely though, I am still the same person. So much has changed but at the core, it’s still me. My night out with the girls brought me back.
There were 5 of us, only 2 of us have kids and my firend’s kids are almost teenagers. I was sure I would feel like a fish out of water but amazingly, it all came back. I danced, I laughed, I even flirted (sort of…does a smile count?). It felt great! I watched as my single friends "played" the room as I used to and felt so happy to be there but thrilled to be going home to my life once this night was done (no offence, guys).
I think that is really the point. I learned a valuable lesson. There are things I miss about my previous self and it is fun to go back and visit or reminisce but I wouldn’t trade my life now for anything. My night out was a blast! Thanks girls. Now, a renewed me can go back to being mom.
Emily is an urban mom to a 10 month old daughter and 3 year old son. She’ll continue to Keep It Cool throughout the summer so check back soon and please share your comments below!
WAS home not at the cottage. Yes…for one dreamy night. OK, not so dreamy really. Is this crazy? I am SO tired right now because of a late night and a baby who refuses to sleep that I actually wish I had spent my night out, IN. Why didn’t I go to bed at 9pm and take advantage of it?? Will feel differently I’m sure once I get more than a wink or two.
LOL…okay well I’m guessing you’re home from the cottage for this night out cause there is not much of a night life up there in cottage country! What’s that old saying…make your own fun?
Funny thing is I managed to get north this wekend and had a girl’s night out too! My cottage neighbor…who lives there full time…invited me out to see a stage performance. “A Date too Far” was playing at the Lime Light Theatre in Parry Sound. http://www.limelighttheatre.com It was a hoot! Go see it for a laugh.
We had a few drinks at “The Hotel”. To pass the time before the show…some how I imagine your bar was much more exciting than mine!
Looking forward to the cottage again this weekend!
Emily,
That sounded like fun. I am afraid that I have lost touch with the outside world. My other and I don’t even have a “drink” anymore and we’re only 34 & 36. I don’t think we even have any friends anymore. Is there any hope for us?
Hey Emily! Isn’t it great to get out…really OUT! I went downtown with some pals a few weeks ago and danced until all hours. It was so fun! I payed for it the next day but loved every minute. Being a mom is rewarding but it is important not to lose yourself in the process. Glad you had fun!