I used to read a book a day before I started working online. I had said when I went on Mat leave that that was what I was going to do. But it has fallen to the side. I always tape my favorite shows to watch for later. I'm about a half a week off. That is the only way I get to watch them though. I love Lost...but I haven't watched last nights so don't tell me anything. I love getting "lost" in someone else's story....Then I don't have to think of my own....

> I know I´m not the only one out there who is struggling to find some time for myself. My husband works back in the UK on a project basis, leaving me here in Spain with the 2 kids. Although we love our life here, and with a family we both need to work, I find it very difficult to get everything done. I need about 36 hours in a day! > I work when the kids are at school, look after them in the afternoons, and then it is the usual round of kids activities, park etc. > Most evenings I´m either working or playing catch up with the chores. > By the time I finish, it is a toss up between "me time " and sleep, and sleep usually wins! > There must be something I can do to get a better balance, but I can´t think what to let go of! > Still even if there is no solution, I feel better for having gotten that off my chest. To all the busy mums out there, I take my sombrero off to you! >

That sounds like a great topic for an article! I struggle with the same issues. I work fulltime, and I have three kids, and I have this site.. and a couple others. It's really hard.

The things that have helped me in the past couple months is setting limits. I accept that certain things will NOT get done, and don't put so much pressure on myself. I was finding that I was torn between work and spending time with the kids, so I made a vow to only work on the computer after they go to bed on weeknights, and only for short periods on weekends when they are napping or playing quietly.

I also have certain indulgent things I always do, even if there are other things on my to-do list left. (There always will be if you're a busy mom anyway!! ). I always watch a couple favorite shows, like Lost, Grey's Anatomy and Desperate Housewives. I would love to work in time to read, but it hasn't happened yet.

I know that it is sometimes hard to balance everything. (IT must be amazing in Spain...I've never been there.) I know I have a hard time too. My husband works at night which leaves me with getting the supper time and bed time things done by myself. And right now my son is battling a flu and I am so tired. I always want to sleep. (Thank you for listening by the way.) I just think that it's a rut I'm stuck in and I'm not sure how to get out of it.