10 Back-to-School To-Do’s
If your kids are heading back to school soon, here are ten things to consider doing with your time:
1. Volunteer.
It is a great way to meet new people, learn about resources, and make connections, all while helping someone else. I love to volunteer. Too bad you can’t be a “professional” volunteer and still pay the bills! If you live on or near an installation, the best place to start is at your local Army Community Service, where there are plenty of opportunities to contribute. You can also visit the volunteering page through Army OneSouce. If you aren’t near an installation, check out VolunteerMatch.org, as they even have virtual opportunities!
2. Take a class.
What is it you have wanted to do and not had the time? Would you like to work on that degree you started and haven’t been able to finish? With most things nowadays, you can even do this online. Maybe it’s just a hobby you are interested in pursuing. I know locally there is a Community Education Commission that offers affordable courses to citizens who want personal development and life-long learning opportunities.
3. Exercise
Ugh, I hear you. Really. Taking care of yourself physically will make everything else so much better. Promise. Yeah, I’m still struggling with it myself.
4. Organize and clean.
With the kids back in school that means one thing—yes, the holidays are right around the corner! Who doesn’t like an organized, clean house when that time of year is upon us? And how much easier is it to clean out the kids’ closets, clothes, and toys without them saying, “But, mom, you’re getting rid of that?”
5. Get a part-time job.
If full-time work just isn’t an option, continue finding something part time! Sometimes we need that time away from the house. What is something you enjoy doing? Maybe it would be nice to have a little extra cash so if you want to splurge on a little something, then you won’t feel guilty taking it from the family budget.
6. Meal plan.
Take a day and cook for the entire week or maybe even two! How much easier would your evenings be if you already knew you had things in the freezer that would be easy to have ready without all the hassle? Maybe you just want someone to give you ideas and plan your meals for the week.
7. Catch up with friends.
Meet somewhere for a cup of coffee or tea. Being able to Skype or make a phone call without the kids around asking for something or needing you to do something is wonderful! Or, if being on the phone isn’t your thing, make someone smile with a handwritten note or card sent to them.
8. Join a women’s group, spouse club, or Bible study.
There is nothing like camaraderie! And you know what? It doesn’t have to be just with other military spouses! Honestly, it is good to have variety in your friends and acquaintances. I enjoy learning from those “more mature” than me who’ve “been there, done that” and have the T-shirt!
9. Spice up your service member’s day.
Yep, you heard me. When the kids are in school and you actually have a few minutes to breathe before the next thing needs to be done, take a minute for your spouse. I cannot tell you what a tremendous boost this is to your relationship. My husband and I have a fantastic, fun, and very loving relationship. I send him pictures and texts occasionally and even leave notes in his truck to find when he leaves for work or notes in his bags when he is training, on TDY, or deployed. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a little sexy with your spouse!
10. Pamper yourself.
Take time for you. Enjoy a nice hot bath, read that book you have been trying to all summer, enjoy a little nap time, or get a mani/pedi. If you can take care of you, then you’ll be happier, less stressed, and ready to help others when that front door slams open.
