I've blogged in the past about self care, but I feel I can never encourage it enough. The parents that come into my office are worn down. Obviously they come to me because their child is struggling in some way. Add that to the already stressful lives they lead balancing work, finances, daily to do's, caring for a family, activities, homework...the list goes on. So this blog entry is for anyone that feels pulled, exhausted, too busy, defeated, just worn down.

It's so easy to get bogged down by our "to do" lists. We forget to take care of ourselves. It's like on a airplane when they tell you to put on your own oxygen mask before putting on your child's. If we don't fill our own buckets first, we can't be the moms, dads, spouses, friends we hope to be. We find ourselves becoming short tempered and cranky. KC Parent Magazine had a great little blurb months ago about a "ta-da" list, rather than a "to do" list. This is simply a way to look at what you have accomplished rather than what you NEED to accomplish. How often do we take the time to do that? Most of us would probably answer "never".

Today I'm focusing on my "ta da" list. This week I've worked to take care of myself professionally (got a few new clients), physically (just biked 12 miles), nutritionally (my first successful week of weight watchers), socially (remembering to fit time in with dear friends), and mentally (scheduling in quiet time that is crucial to keeping me feeling centered). Doing this has not been easy. Trust me, there are times my "to do" list has been screaming at me from the counter. But after taking time for me, I find that I have been more patient with my own children, a better companion for my husband and more ready and willing to finally answer that screaming to do list that seems to grow exponentially!

It's not easy to put ourselves first, but this week, take a step. Do one thing to take care of yourself. Just one. It's a start. Schedule it in if you have to! You are setting an example for your family. Your kids will thank you for it!

I can't wait to hear about your successes!