5 tips to make it easier to have that girls night out

When was the last time you had a night out with your girls? And by girls, I don’t mean your daughters. Your girlfriends. The ones that may have slipped through the cracks along the challenging road called motherhood?

If you haven’t gone out in the last month, then it is time you do. Moms need that girl time. Studies show that having friends help women live better, healthier lives. Having a social life reduces the risk of disease by lowering blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol and depression.

Here’s how to make a break for it:

1. Give the kids a quick kiss and head out the door. Don’t prolong the goodbyes – it’ll be more stressful for them.

2. If family isn’t around to sit, ask your friends if they can recommend someone. Sometimes a friend’s nanny might be available for babysitting in the evenings. You can try your local high school for teenagers who babysit – the going rate is $7–$8 an hour.

3. Some grandparents LOVE to babysit. If you’re not comfortable dropping the kids off, ask them to come to your house to hang out with the kids while you go out with your girlfriends.

4. If your kids are anxious when you leave, remind them that you’ll be back before they know it and they’ll have fun one-on-one time with daddy or grandma or grandpa.

5. Keep your cell phone on vibrate, but don’t be tempted to call home every half hour!