Like all holidays, Family Day Weekend can be a challenge for separated parents who don’t have their children. Reading all the social media posts of ‘happy families’ doing activities together can make parents resentful of lost time with their children or just plain sad.
As a single parent, I can empathize. The first time spending a weekend without your child or children can be very painful and you might not know what do with that all that time! It does get easier. And remember that it’s okay to spend a little time and energy on yourself.
Here are a few tips and ideas for not only surviving those long weekends alone but maybe even enjoying them.
1. Plan ahead – don’t wait until the weekend to figure out a plan. Schedule some quality time with friends or family. Cook for someone else, plan brunch or a meal out with friends.
2. Spend some time outdoors – Being outside in the fresh air is usually energizing and, if nothing else, might allow you some guilt-free time to being watch your favourite shows.
3. Catch up on projects – Finishing an old project, like cleaning out that closet and delivering clothes your children have outgrown to charitable organization will (hopefully) leave you feeling a sense of accomplishment. In the summer, it might be weeding the garden, or mowing the lawn that has gotten out of hand!
4. Buy that book in your favourite series you’ve been dying to read and indulge with your favourite snacks.
5. Pamper yourself – Book a haircut, manicure/pedicure, massage or your favourite treatment. (Guys, this goes for you as well.)
6. Exercise – run, swim, bike, hike, ski – whatever you fancy. You’ll feel that little rush of endorphins and it will feel good – maybe even great!
7. Cook up a storm – A long weekend is a great time to fill your freezer with make-ahead meals or baking.
However you choose to spend your long weekend, try to enjoy it. It might be awhile before you get some to focus on your own needs!