Have the opportunity to go away for a week…mum guilt setting in!

[Jinkers12]

I am a single mum to 2 young children. Me and their dad co parent roughly 70/30 split. The kids love going to their dads, no issues there. I have preciously went away for 2/3 day trips during my ‘free’ time but I now have the chance to go away on a trip ive dreamt of doing for years. I have the money this year. It also suits their dad to have them that week.
why all of a sudden do i feel guilty at leaving them? Their dad has taken himself off on week long holidays at least twice a year since we split 4 years ago im sure without these feelings.
the kids and I are doing a family holiday this year as well as a city break later in the year so its not that im picking this over them.
my family like to martyr themselves to motherhood so they are probably very disapproving of my choosing to use my annual leave for this so I darent even talk to them about it.
i know i should just do it…talk me into it!!

Oh and the kids are 7 and 8

Go and enjoy yourself!!!
You're a person too!

Whoever coined the phrase 'mum guilt' should F.O.D

Socialisation, false consciousness etc are making you feel bad if you actually want to go. You should absolutely go, you’ll have a fabulous time, as will your DC with their Dad. It’s a no brainer.

Don't let your (misplaced) guilt get in between you and some joy.

You pay your dues.

Fuck off dead?
I don’t know that phrase but now I’m giggling 😂

Absolutely do it! I feel like a much better parent when I get back from any solo trips 😂

Do it!!

Both DH and I have a 2 nighter annually where we go and do stuff on our own. It's made all the difference in the world to my sense of wellbeing. DH does a weekend away with a hobby I don't enjoy and I usually go on a city break and do all the museums (and no small amount of wine on my own in the hotel).

You have the ideal situation- the money, your ex is willing and capable and your children will be fine. Ignore any nay saying from your family who think you ought to be a martyr. Men don't always have this pressure on them and you will be refreshed.

@jinkers Fuck off and die (check out the Green Day song)

Oh honest to god, fuck the concept of mum guilt. It's made up bollocks. Go and enjoy yourself. In fact, do it annually.

I'm not a single mum but went away for a week without the kids (6, 4 and 2) last year. They were at home with my DH so completely fine. My mother in law (and a few other relatives) made lots of remarks about how she could never have done it etc etc but it was honestly the best thing ever and I don't regret it for a second. I didn't realise until I went away how totally burnt out I was. I came back happier, calmer and a better mother. It also gave me some space and perspective to change some of the things that were burning me out (my job). I love family holidays but with young kids they are not very relaxing so I desperately needed this break.

Ok ok!!