Put your Oxygen Mask on First

I've been talking to a lot of moms lately who are overwhelmed and finding it difficult to get everything done PLUS take care of themselves.  How many times do you find yourself agreeing to something, let's say having a holiday gathering at your house, doing the cooking and plastering a big smile on your face because you know that it's important for the family to be together? Meanwhile you're just trying to keep your head above water and stealing 5-10 minutes to enjoy yourself. 

Do you ever find that the most enjoyment you get during the holiday season, or anytime for that matter, is AFTER the event, when things are cleaned up and you can put your feet up and relax for those precious 10 minutes before you drag yourself off to bed, so that you get enough sleep to get up early and start all over again?  Something is wrong with this picture.  I know, because I've been in this picture.  In my own quest to carry on traditions, get together with friends and family, sometimes I forget that the whole point is not to wear myself out with the preparation, but to enjoy the time together.

This year, before New Years, before resolutions start, I'm going to Put My Oxygen Mask on First.  Maybe not all the time, and I certainly won't be perfect, but I'm going to give it a try.  Want to join me?  What does this mean?  Ok, check back next week and I'll go through some ideas for all of us.