I’m not typically a betting girl, but if I were, I bet you are tired! I know I am. This past month has taken more out of me emotionally, spiritually, and physically than I care to recount.

Too tired to cry, or even reach out for help, I found myself in that space where all I could do was whisper, “Help me, Lord”. Even then, I didn’t have the luxury of waiting for a response. I had to trust my prayer was heard and that help was on the way as I continued to put one foot in front of the other and march on.

It’s tough, isn’t it, when all of our responsibilities don’t halt even though we’ve got nothing left in the tank? All too often, we are running on empty even before we get out of bed—at the beginning of the day, at the end of the day, and so many moments in-between.

If this is the stage you find yourself in, you are in good company with this group. I believe we can all relate. So, with that in mind, let’s have some fun this week with creative ideas on how to find pockets of refreshment.

While its pretty much a fact that single moms don’t have the benefit of extra money to spend on refreshment, let’s not get hung up on feeling sorry for ourselves, but instead embrace the stage we are in and make the best of it—deal?

One of my own refreshment favorite: taking a hot bath with a candle and some bubbles. I love my kids but sometimes you need a break…some peace and quiet…space to close your eyes and breathe. Fortunately, you can pick up a packet of bath salts or bubble bath and a small candle for under a few dollars at the dollar store or drug store. This small indulgence can go a long way.

How about inviting a friend over for some fun in the kitchen? An impromptu pot luck? Take whatever you have in your fridge and cabinets and create something new for you and the kids. Ask your friend to bring something from her house as well and then get creative in meshing it together for a fun and funny meal for all.

Some more ideas include: taking a walk and letting the natural endorphins invigorate you, having a friend over for some sweet tea and a belly laugh, waking up ten minutes early to snuggle with the kids before school and work, starting an online bible study, journalling your hopes and dreams for the future, or hosting a movie night with blankets and popcorn.

The list is endless. And although I try and pick healthy ways of coping and soothing my tired soul, every once in while I just needs a few minutes to enjoy a hot cup of coffee and a handful of cookies!

The challenge is to find something that truly refreshes you; not puts more pressure on you, or takes you down a path of destructive habits like over-indulging in eating, drinking, gossiping, etc.

So take some time to think about what you “need” and what you “enjoy”. Then think about your schedule and try to find a pocket of time that you can secure for yourself. It might only be once this week, and that’s okay. You deserve to be good to yourself, and God wants to refresh you and restore you.

Reflect and Respond:

Ask God to give you a pocket of time this week and then pick something special to do for yourself that will refresh your body, mind and soul.

I would love to hear about the fun and creative ideas you all have, so take a second and post your thoughts. It might inspire someone else. Have fun with this and enjoy being refreshed.

Remember, you are not alone. Be blessed this week and be good to yourself. Big Hug.