L.K.
Hi J.,
Good for you!
I worked full time, by my choice until my kids were in 5th grade and kindergarten. For me once my son got to school age and kept asking if I could go on the field trip or come into the classroom and help the teacher I needed to take a look at staying home.
One thing I did was volunteer in the school/classroom. BUT BE CAREFUL you can get sucked in to do much more than you had ever intended! And once you say yes, they never go any further. It took me a couple of years to realize that when you say NO they ALWAYS find someone to do whatever it is!
But also find something outside of school to get involved in. There are tons of organizations that always need volunteers for whatever.
Read. I couldn't believe how little I actually read when my kids were little. Now are there are days I may just read an hour or two without interuption.
Take a bath, without interuption! I also didn't realize how I had just gotten into the quick shower routine.
Beyond the cooking, experiement with recipes and meals. I know I fell into the quick, easy and cheap but once I quit work I started doing more cooking, trying new recipes and enjoyed it. And actually the family enjoyed it as well.
Exercise. Find a gym or just take a walk. I have an IPOD and will just walk for 30-45 minutes. That did and still does so much for my mind, health and stress level.
I hope this helps. If I had to say anything, first get involved in the kid's school. It's amazing how much you learn about the school, teachers, cirriculum and politics when you are up there doing things. But again, be careful.
Get involved in your community but most of all take care of yourself. There is nothing wrong and many things right with mommy taking care of herself so she can care for her family!
Love and enjoy it! It will be gone before you know it.
Lori K.