Friday, April 27, 2007

A stylish weekend for moms

by Liz Lange
Before having kids, a "stylish" weekend probably included sleeping late on Saturday, taking in the latest movie or new cultural exhibit, throwing (or going to) a fab party and winding down with a long, leisurely brunch on Sunday. While you may never get back that sleeping-in part, and the "fab" party may involve a trip to Build-a-Bear, family weekends can be as noteworthy as those from your pre-kid days ‑- with a little planning.
I find the key to a good weekend is knowing what we're going to do, and balancing the kids' schedules (those soccer games and birthday parties!) and my own need to relax. I find that if I plan one activity that is fun for all of us, we have something to look forward to and to discuss long afterward. Favorites in my home are trips to the Children's Museum here in New York City (which has an ever-revolving choice of exhibits) or taking a day trip to a new neighborhood or town. Conversely, don't try to book every minute of the weekend: Two overly scheduled days don't make you cool ‑- they make you exhausted. Just hanging out in your pajamas with the kids on a weekend morning is valuable relaxation and bonding time. Turn off the TV, have a leisurely breakfast and read the paper (you: the world news section; them: the comics).

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