by Sarah Welch and Alicia Rockmore

Independence Day for Mom! What does this mean to you? A day to do what you want to do, or a day when everyone does what they are supposed to do? Tips to have a successful Independence Day for Mom:

• First and foremost, pick a day and let the family know so they can plan on covering for you. You may need to list out all the errands and tasks that need to be done that day by someone – not by you. Make it clear that these items will not be done by you when your day is over, it is their responsibility to complete the items if they are important to them.
• Do not tackle a job at home! Is that what your independence day means to you? That is not really what this day is for; it is for you to remember who you are and recharge your batteries. The person you were that your husband married, before life and child rearing responsibilities took your total focus.
• Do anything you like! Consider getting a group of friends to take an independence day on the same day and do something together.
• At the end of the day, before the kids and responsibilities come rushing back, spend time reflecting on what you did, and how it made you feel. Share this with your family. They may notice a new sparkle in your eyes and a smile on your face!

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We are the co-founders of Buttoned Up, inc., a company dedicated to helping stretched and stressed women get themselves organized and co-authors of “Everything (almost) In Its Place.” We welcome your thoughts! Please send ideas and questions to us at: yourlife@getbuttonedup.com or visit us at www.getbuttonedup.com