Every day I commute about 20 miles one way to work. During those rides, I usually turn off my music, and just sit there in silence and observe the views around me (usually the sunrises). It gives me time to collect my thoughts and talk to God.

Well a lot of shows are available online. So instead of staying up late I just watch my favorite show online during my lunch. One it makes me feel like I've stolen away and two I took a good mental break so when I start working again I feel a bit more refreshed.

I am currently taking salsa lessons twice a week; it's so much fun! I used to practice Krav Maga (teaches Isreali military self-defense techniques - truly a great skill to learn for women!) with a friend of mine on my day off of work. However, now I'm taking salsa lessons to learn another new skill and gain some culture and rhythm back into my life. The main benefits are that I get to spend time with a good friend of mine just goofing off together while doing a high energy activity thereby knocking "exercise" off my to-do list for the week also. Afterwards, we occasionally go out to eat for some light appetizers (to split) and one or two drinks. Surprisingly relaxing and stimulating.

A couple ways. First I go to church on Sundays. There's nothing like that single, calming hour of time to just sit and listen. And second, I'm lucky enough to work about five minutes from my house, so I'm able to go home for lunch. I usually sit on the couch and watch the shows I've recorded from the day before. It's a great indulgence.

I get books on tape from the library. That way I can run and keep up with my reading, and get through books on my way to work!

I say "no" without feeling bad about it.

I was working full time at a job that was less than satifying, and very frustrating. At home, concerns with our children and parents were very upsetting. I finally got to the point where I just wanted to run away from everything. After thinking about what would or wouldn't happen if I disappeared for a day, I decided to do exactly that. I told my husband that, after work on Monday, I was escaping to a yet undecided location, and that I would reappear at home Tuesday evening. After giving it further thought, I decided that my husband needed to escape almost as much as I did, and I asked if he'd like to join me. (Our children were at college.) He agreed, and I asked him to chose someplace for us to go within an hour of where we lived. He picked me up after work and drove us to a nice hotel in the city. The first thing we did was take a lovely nap. The next day we just walked around, checking out shops as if we were tourists. Finally, the time came, and we drove home, feeling much more relaxed. All it took was one day off from work, and a little money we had put aside for a vacation. It was the best short vacation we ever had. I suggest at least a modified version of my escape for everyone.

Every Wednesday night, I play in my community orchestra. This regular block of time remains separate from my work and family lives and allows me to focus on something creative and fun for a few hours each week.