Keeping the Me in Mommy

Don’t be distracted by this smiling, happy child… or else you could get burned.

No, really.

Last weekend my husband and I packed up our two sons to go to a friend’s pool party at noon. The morning of the pool party consisted of us adults running around getting the boys dressed, packing extra swim diapers and snacks and milk in a cooler, finding the pool toys, floaties and sunblock and trying to solve the omnipresent ‘nap’ issue  we face when our day involves a mid-day event.

Bags and coolers packed, we piled the boys into our car and headed to the pool party. About halfway there I realized I forgot to pack my contacts and sunglasses, so I could avoid wearing my glasses in the pool. “All well,” I said to my husband. “No biggie.”

We got to the party and had a blast. The kids had fun, we had a great time and we even managed to sneak in a nap thanks to a friend’s pack and play! About three hours into the party, I noticed my forehead felt like it was on fire. Oh no! Sunblock!

That’s right – I had lathered up every inch of my sons in 50 SPF, but when it came time for mommy, I simply forgot. What is it about children that can make a mom the most organized person in the world when it comes to the children and the most neglectful person in the world when it comes to taking care of herself?? My boys were so prepared for that party they actually had back-up toys for when they got bored with the first round of pool toys I packed. But me? There I was red as a lobster, half blind thanks to the dried water drops on my glasses, and holding up my hand to shade my eyes for hours on end because I had no sunglasses. This was a new low, even for me.

So, this week I have vowed to let my bright red forehead serve as a reminder for myself. Each time I look in the mirror, I am reminded of how important it is for me to remember … me. I mean, seriously, if I can remember three varieties of snacks, two favorite toys and a sippy for every errand I run, surely I can remember me!

But by all means, if anyone has any tips for how NOT to neglect yourself, I’m all ears! And, this week, all forehead.

Aleshia Howe is a Senior Communications Specialist for Texas Health Resources and Mom to two boys.