She Takes Care of Herself

At the beginning of this new year we would like to remind our readers that while we are taking care of our families we should not neglect to take care of ourselves. 

Sometimes it seems an impossible task (those among you with small children will most likely especially feel this way) but a few minutes here and there treating yourself or paying attention to your legitimate needs will go a long way.  Do not be tempted to take on a martyr role in your family!  No one is served by this.  Occasionally mention to your husband or older children ways in which they can care for you and don't hesitate to ask for help or a break when you need it!

Take a minute to read this short and to-the-point post entitled "Motherhood and Identity: Martyr is not spelled M-O-M."

I am certain that I have been guilty at times of taking on the martyr role and doing what this author describes as sacrificing my needs for the sake of my children's wants.   Might you be doing this too?

Occasionally mention to your husband or older children ways in which they can care for you and don't hesitate to ask for help or a break when you need it!

And  in the meanwhile -- here's "Take Care of Yourself Tip #1":

No chocolate chips and still yummy.

Regularly include chocolate in your life.  

This fun recipe was shared with me by a mother of seven (including twins), so if she has time to make this for herself every now and then I expect you do too!

Chocolate Mug Cake

You'll need:

• 1 microwaveable mug
• 1/4 c flour
• 1/4 c sugar
• 2 T cocoa powder
• 1 egg
• 3 T milk
• 3 T oil
• 3 T chocolate chips (optional)
• small splash of vanilla extract

Add the flour, sugar, and cocoa powder to the mug.  [Note:  To simplify things you can use the 1/4 measuring cup for all measurements since 1/4 cup = 4 T.  Just eyeball it and fill the 1/4 cup measure half or 3/4 of the way depending on whether you want 2 T or 3 T].  Crack the egg into the mug and mix thoroughly.  Add the milk and oil and mix really well.  Add the chips if you are using them -- they create a soft of frosting in the bottom of the mug.  Add the vanilla and mix again.  Microwave for 2 minutes 30 seconds on 70% power.  Allow to cool a bit and enjoy!!  If you want to get really decadent you can put a bit of whipped cream on top.

Linked Up:

Raising Homemakers

This Chick Cooks