” I was taken by the power that savoring a simple cup of coffee can have to connect people and create community.” H. Shultz
Time Out! It’s Worth a Shot.
I don’t know about you, but there are days that I question my ability as a mom. Days where I wonder how I’m ever going to make it through the high octane energy levels, the temper tantrums, the potty training, and the meltdowns. And one of the questions I get asked every few months from the social worker who handles our foster daughter’s case is “What are you doing to keep yourself well? Are you finding time for your own well-being?”
My typical answer is “For sure! I work out- when I can. Go hiking-when I can.” But truth be told, sometimes life is so busy and I’m too tired to work out or go hiking. On the other hand, getting coffee with a friend or even by myself is way more fun! Sometimes I think it’s the best thing I can do for myself. It’s a time out away from the demands of daily life. A time out to reconnect with my own thoughts. A time out to share what’s going on in my life with a listening friend, niece, sister, or mom.
Expresso Self
Maybe it’s just me. Maybe it’s because I’m an older mom. Maybe it’s because I’m a bit of an introvert. I’m not sure, but finding time to connect with others in our busy lives is difficult.
There are class parties, field trips, school wide dinners, programs, soccer games, mileage clubs, musicals, and staff barbecues. My two-year-old even has a busy schedule at day care that we follow. (Sometimes. I mean, come on!)
When both parents are working, double the events! At what point do we stop and say, “Enough!”?
At what point do we stop and agree that our mental health is much more important than the amount of activities we put on our calendars? I cannot express how important it is for us to take a step back and evaluate what we need in our lives and what we don’t.
I’ll say it right here, we definitely need way more quiet times, chatting over a cup of coffee with a friend, than we need more activities added to our calendar. And I refuse to feel guilty about it.
A Brewing Movement
The culture of coffee is evolving into a beautiful meeting ground where, regardless of your position in life, you can connect, collaborate, and share some happiness. There is this steady movement brewing in our communities that gives me hope. It’s not a new concept but in the last several years I’ve seen more independent coffee shops popping up in our neighborhoods and bringing a new sense of community.
Stop by anyone of these coffee houses and you’ll see friends conversing over their favorite lattes. You’ll see individuals working on their computers, engaging their creativity, writing their next best seller. There are even opportunities to meet new people and develop new friendships.
It may seem like a latte work at first. But give it a try. Call up a friend, a niece, a sister and schedule a much needed time out and have yourself a brew-tiful day! 😉
