Weekends are mine: how a mum over 40 reclaims her time

My weekends are precious. As a mum over 40, they are the only time I feel I can truly catch my breath and live on my own terms. During the week, I’m pulled in two directions at once – work and family, deadlines and school runs – and sometimes I wonder if the grass is any greener on the other side. But my decision to work is based on my family’s needs, so I keep going.

That makes weekends my turn. Saturday and Sunday are for recharging, for giving my mind and body the space the week rarely allows. Don’t get me wrong, I love my work. But I am a firm believer in balance. Without it, the weekdays feel heavier than they need to.

Morning rituals

I am not one for lie-ins; my body clock no longer permits them. Saturday starts early with a good breakfast, saffron tea, and a spot of blog planning. Breakfast is usually a tomato omelette with garlic and turmeric or green eggs fried with dill. Cyrus loves both dishes, which is always a relief.

Exercise: non-negotiable me-time

I am a devoted fan of Les Mills’ Body Attack and Body Combat at David Lloyd Newcastle. For me, the gym is as much a community as a place to exercise. The classes release tension, give me energy, and leave me feeling accomplished, even if it’s exhausting.

For my husband, H, this routine dominates most of Saturday and Sunday mornings, but he understands that this time is non-negotiable for me. Saturday evenings are quiet and reflective, a chance to pause after the week. I rarely watch terrestrial television; quiz shows and tired celebrity specials hold little appeal. Instead, we opt for a takeaway and Fargo on Netflix, followed by an early night. Weekends are not the time for tossing and turning in bed.

Sundays and sport

Sundays bring sport and fresh air. Brisk walks in Jesmond Dene or Paddy Freeman’s Park are a family affair, setting the tone for the day and giving Cyrus the space to run free. Sometimes we need a change of scenery, too. A recent weekend in Edinburgh, staying near the zoo, gave us a chance to eat, relax, and recharge without the stress of a long journey.

Never fully off

Even at the weekend, I can never completely switch off as a PR Manager. Emails ping, requests arrive, and I respond where I can. But weekends give me perspective. They remind me what I’m working for and why the little wins matter.

I am immensely proud of my family and what we have built together. Weekends keep me motivated and ready for Monday. I seldom feel that Sunday-night dread because, by then, I am already living my weekend memories.