If you're a stay-at-home mom, having your child start school for the first time may be a bit rough . . . at first. But once everyone gets into the swing of things, a new realization sets in. You. Are. Free! That's right mama, you've got a few glorious hours to do whatever you want. So while the options really are endless, we've rounded up a few lovely ways to fill that kid-free time — and you'd be amazed at what you can pack into a few hours when you're flying solo.
Source: Shutterstock [1]
Get Excited
Your days of weeping over your baby growing up are over — you've got a few glorious hours to yourself, girl! Enjoy.
Source: Instagram user sarahannthough [2]
Do Absolutely Nothing
Sometimes the best way to fill in free time is by doing absolutely nothing.
Source: Instagram user jbolla86 [3]
Take a Nap
No, seriously, I won't even be offended if you stop reading this and go take a nap. We're on the same team here.
Source: Instagram user ashbbenn [4]
Take a Bath
Or shower, whatever. The fact is that you'll be doing it alone. Yipee!
Source: Instagram user jetaimemouse [5]
Get Pampered at a Salon
Opt for the longer treatment, because you don't have a bored child at your side.
Source: Instagram user cultnails [6]
Or Pamper Yourself at Home
You won't even have to hear the question, "Mommy, what is wrong with your face?"
Source: Instagram user olgasuka [7]
Meet Up With Mom Friends
And realize that when you're without your kiddos, you have so much more time to gab.
Source: Instagram user erinlindblad [8]
Go to Starbucks
. . . skip the drive-through. Actually sit in the coffee house. People watch. And read a book.
Source: Instagram user 4hatsandfrugal [9]
Get Your Hair Done
Many a mama waited all Summer to get their hair done, and back to school means back to your regular visits to the hair salon.
Source: Instagram user rlucero [10]
Fall in Love Again With Your Old Hobby
Be it knitting or something else, pick up your old hobby and learn to love it again.
Source: Instagram user octopussoup33 [11]
Take a Hike
Hiking with kids is good for the family, but hiking alone is good for the soul.
Source: Instagram user mamamaya [12]
Clean
OK, this may not be your top choice, but cleaning your house with kids running around is like brushing your teeth while eating Oreos — totally counterproductive. So take advantage of the empty house.
Source: Instagram user mamaloves2eatprayrun [13]
Make a Solo Target Run
Grab a red shopping cart (a regular one, not the kind with the giant car attached to it) and just browse the aisles.
Source: Instagram user beckyabernathy [14]
Grab Lunch With Your Spouse
Sure, you have date nights, but those require a sitter — so make a lunch date with your spouse.
Source: Instagram user kworksfitness [15]
Go to the Gym
If you're on your A-game, you might even get in a shower too and still be on time for pick-up.
Source: Instagram user candis_k [16]
Indulge in Forbidden Fruit
Grab a carton of ice cream and eat straight from it — all without having a child at your side begging for a bite.
Source: Instagram user brandibriandurbin [17]
Meet Up With Friends For Lunch
And what's more? You can even do lunch with your friends who don't have kids.
Source: Instagram user drjennberman [18]
Or Go Out For Lunch by Yourself
Eating lunch out all by yourself may have freaked out your prekids self, but now it sounds downright delightful.
Source: Instagram user kathrynvail [19]
Take a Bike Ride
Bike rides are typically reserved as something we do with our kiddos, but riding your bike alone (and without having to yell at your child to stop at the crosswalk or to keep up with you) is a great time.
Source: Instagram user aprilfarrish [20]
Listen to Whatever You Want in the Car
Yup, the Frozen soundtrack that has been on repeat for six months can finally be ejected.
Source: Instagram user janie_williams [21]
Organize
If organization brings you to your happy place, then get at it, girl. You'll be amazed at how much more organized you can actually get when you are solo.
Source: Instagram user juliemma2275 [22]
Catch Up on Your Phone Calls
Nothing is harder than having a meaningful conversation on the phone when your child is around. Catch up with all those folks you've been meaning to call and enjoy interruption-free phone time.
Source: Instagram user ratonmagnet [23]
Read a Good Book
And finish it. In silence.
Source: Instagram user shalo1992 [24]
Watch "Mommy" Shows
In their entirety and without worrying if your child is picking up on what is happening on the screen.
Source: Instagram user sammielindsay [25]