Moms Night Out (even Supermom needs a night off sometimes)

We get up early to feed our children (sometimes much earlier than we'd like if we have a sleepless, hungry, wet, teething or simply bored child), get ready and get out the door.  Whether we're headed to jobs outside the home or to take care of our ever-growing to do lists, or both, the day starts early and ends late.  We find little time to ourselves and our significant others.  I'm not complaining, really.  Since having AML jr I have become quite the laundress, housekeeper, errand runner, bather or as we call it for AML jr, spa time (I know, I know, I'm training her way too early to enjoy the joys of the spa.  Don't worry, no manis, pedis, facials or massages yet, just bubble baths).  Oh and lest I forget my role as the family clown (yes, I make just about any silly noise or face to get my girl laughing, a far cry from my businesswoman side...though I do think we could all use a daily dose of clown mom in our workplaces...hmmmm new company idea?).  We work hard for our money...and our families.

As much as I enjoy the mommy role, I am a huge proponent of Moms (and Dads) Nights Out.  I feel the same way about date nights (another post to come).  Maybe you heard about National Mom's Night Out on May 9 (Mom's Night Out 2011) and were able to take advantage of it?  Maybe not?  Trust me, I get it.  Who has the time and energy to plan or even attend a night out given how busy we are everyday, and exhausted?  Plus, I have three nights of three different Real Housewives shows to watch, Glee and The Voice so those nights are out people! On the other hand, I do have DVR...

If you're a mom-to-be, don't be afraid.  Just plan to make time for yourself every once in a while, after all that baby won't be happy if you're not happy! I feel it's important to be able to step out of your mom role, just temporarily, to enjoy the company of your girlfriends (or guy friends).  Remember, before you were a mother (who at times felt consumed by household chores and smelly diapers) you were a worldly woman who enjoyed talking about...okay, okay celebrity gossip, the latest fashion trends, movies, etc.  That's the thing, you don't have to get out and necessarily have intellectual discussions or even force yourself to not talk about your kids.  In fact, other moms can be a great source of advice and laughter.  You don't even have to talk at all.  Last night I saw Bridesmaids with Mrs. S, son of two boys under four (G-d bless her heart, she also works full-time!), and we had the best time.  The movie was hysterical, the popcorn and Milk Duds tasted as good as I remembered, and catching up before and after the movie was fun too.  We've decided to make this a regular outing. When I lived in NY, I went out with my friend Mrs. K-K to be and we went to a wine bar.  I have become such a cheap date, after one glass I had a buzz that lasted well into the night.  WARNING: You might regret the wine when you're awoken in the middle of the night by baby.  However, I didn't regret getting out, spending qt with Mrs. K-K and remembering what it's like to wear a cute outfit without a diaper bag!

Ugly bridesmaids dress bachelorette party for my sister-in-law

So, put down the remote, drop the diaper bag, toss the kid to your husband or a sitter (I kid, don't toss please), throw on a pair of skinny jeans you now fit into because who has time to eat these days anyway, grab a clutch that fits your non-baby essentials (gloss, cell phone, wallet, etc) and get your booty to a Moms Night Out (or bring Mom's Night Out in!).  And don't feel guilty!