Reclaiming little parts: Trading spit-up for stage lights

My first postpartum night out sans kids / hubby is almost here! I have this theory that I'm a much better mom/wife when I spend time doing things that fill my cup. Watching live music has always been something that makes my soul feel warm. When my first two were young, I poured everything into them and put most of my own interests on hold. I suppose I believed the lie that this was a sacrifice ‘good’ moms made and held out hope that I’d get back to doing self-focused activities eventually. Then once COVID hit, nothing was going on for a long-ass time. As restrictions lifted and performances resumed, I was focused largely on the juggle of being a student and a mom. So I've dedicated the past couple of years to reclaiming this side of me that I’ve somehow lost.

Even though I’m a tad bit anxious at the thought of being separated from my baby girl for a few hours, I'm also really excited for this upcoming acoustic set. It’ll be mellow and not too overstimulating. Christian Lee Hutson is an incredible singer-songwriter. I love the way so many of his songs are written like pieces of flash fiction filled with characters whose struggles we get to peek at through poignant vignettes, similar to Mick Flannery’s style of songwriting. Hutson’s albums were co-produced by my girl Phoebe Bridgers (the ultimate sad girl Queen), and since she isn't coming to Van anytime soon, this guy is the next best thing.

Suffice it to say, I’m looking forward to this wee break from caring for kiddos all day long. Here’s hoping my hubby can get our little lady to take a bottle while I'm out enjoying myself. Even if I feel a bit guilty for leaving her, I know I’ll show up more intentionally as a mom after having done something meaningful for myself.