Nothing makes me feel more like a human being again after a long hard day than a favorite food. (except perhaps a shower). After a morning spent in and out of the cold and wind, a bowl of pretty much anything warm is welcome. Today’s choice was butternut squash with butter.
I think one of the harder aspects of being a parent is that I don’t have the luxury of enjoying my food. I do eat, at least usually, because it is necessary for me to function as a mom and a person. But not always savoring my food; enjoying the taste and textures of my favorites.
Eating for the experience rather than just the nutrients is, I believe, a uniquely human trait. Yet another example of ways that parenting sometimes makes me feel less than human. Click To TweetSometimes I’m reduced to my most basic instincts for self-preservation. I feel selfish setting aside time for self-care. My self-care priorities include hot food, quiet and preferably a hot shower. I know I’m not entitled to these things, I often have to do without them. But I know that when I can make them a priority, I am a better mom, a better wife and a better friend. When I take care of myself, it makes me more able to care for others.
So yes, I do eat and sometimes, I even enjoy it.
Visiting from FMF (and also doing Write 31 Days). It’s so hard as a parent, or any kind of caregiver, to take time out for yourself. I’ve just come on holiday while my elderly dad (who has dementia) is still in hospital and I have to remind myself that it’s ok to take a break. But we do need time to take care of ourselves or we won’t be fit enough to care for those we love. It’s an ongoing lesson to find the balance.