Support When You are Solo Parenting

I'm headed out of town to celebrate my best friend this weekend! I am so excited to eat dinner without someone eating off of my plate, drying and straightening my hair, having a full 3 minute conversation where I don't say "wait one minute", and maybe sleeping in past 7:03.

It's also Bobby's first weekend with the kids by himself. The teacher in me starting writing what looked to be parenting sub plans. But then, I deleted. Bobby is more than capable and knows what the routines and procedures at our house are. Plus, I think it's fun for the kids to have a little of extras that they don't usually get with both us. (Lunch today is Tony's Burrito Mex. If you live in RV, you know how much Bo loves Tony's)

I've solo parented my fair share and I just wanted to share a couple of tips with all of you in case you are solo parenting or your spouse is going to solo parent.

1. Pretend like you are on vacation too. You have to be your best self during this time. If that means a coffee or a dinner out do it. One time, the kids and I went out to dinner just because I needed someone else to serve me.

2. Let somethings go. You are the only person there so you don't have the option of switching when things get rough. (They get rough). You have to be calm and collective. Let me be clear- I'm not saying parenting is babysitting. But sometimes you have to pretend that you are babysitting and these are not your kids. In this situation, this is not parenting, this is surviving.

3. Have a plan. Make sure the plan includes getting out of the house. I left a list of fun things for Bobby to do plus, some tips about doing all of them. Getting out of the house could include going to Costco or looking at the toy aisle at Target. Be sure to get outside too. Go for a walk, ride a bike, containment is key though. (Stroller and snacks = sanity)

4. Premake breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you know that you want to have  Mac and Cheese for lunch. Make it at about 10 when everyone is happy and playing. If you wait until 12:15, chaos reigns.

5. Find friends. Your friends want to help you out. Ask if you can bring a 6 pack over and play at their house. A change in pace will help everyone still love each other at the end of the weekend.

But beyond all, enjoy your time with your kids by yourself. It is such a treat to make these meaningful memories that your kids will talk about years from now. Also, be sure to give your spouse a huge hug when they come back.

You Got This. 

(Drink a glass of wine in bed at 8pm.  That will convince you that you are rockstar parent)