Before I had Mrs Tiggywinkles it was so easy to do the simplest of activities. I could take my time shopping for clothes without worrying about a little person getting bored. If we wanted to watch a movie at the cinema we could and I didn’t give a second thought to going to the gym.
Now I have somebody else to look after, it is a lot harder to be spontaneous but still possible to do the things you enjoy- it just takes planning.
Today I left Mrs T at the gym crèche for the first time. If there is one thing which changes when you become a mum it is your organisation. I get it now. It is pretty crucial. To ensure Mrs T got a place at the crèche during my Zumba class, I had to book more than a week in advance AND make her a ‘member’ of the gym.
Leaving your child with strangers is a bit weird. There is always that moment as you wave and turn your back on them that you think, ‘I hope she is going to be ok’, alongside a tinsy bit of guilt.
Fortunately, my Zumba class kept my mind from drifting back to her. Certainly, there was not much time to think about anything other than trying to get the dance moves right and not looking like a complete idiot (those mirrors in dance studios can be rather unforgiving).
I do love a bit of Zumba. Aside from weddings and hen dos, it is fast becoming the only opportunity I get to bust out some moves (my clubbing days seem like a distant memory). It is a great feel-good class, there’s no judgement, and there are people there of all abilities (today it was great to see a bloke there too). I just love listening (and singing) to some good tunes and having a boogie. I always come out with a smile on my face and feeling rejuvenated. When you are a Mum, it is important to have some time to yourself and do the things you enjoy.
As for Mrs T, well, she had a great time and was apparently as good as gold.
“She didn’t even cry,” the staff informed me, leaving me wondering whether most children do.
It is so reassuring to see her happy in the company of others who aren’t close family.
In a few months time she will be at nursery two days a week so I want to get her used to being away from us and me away from her. It helps that the creche seemed well run with friendly staff. Plus, so far there is no sign of the dreaded separation anxiety but I am sure that will rear its head at some point.
Even though it can be daunting leaving them for the first time, in a new place, nothing beats that HUGE smile when they see your face again. That is priceless.
Mrs T’s trip to the gym creche was such a success, I have booked her in for next week.
