27April2025 Thursday
Dear Diary,
Emily dropped by for a quick tea during my lunch break, stirring her EarlGrey in a paper cup. Stop living for everyone else, Tom! she blurted, eyes flashing. You never think about yourself. All you do is bend over backwards for the kids and Laura. She was fortytwo, clever as a fox and still younger than me by a few years, yet she always had a word of wisdom up her sleeve.
She went on, Theyve got you wrapped around their little fingers, havent they? All you hear is Dad, can you or Mum, please Youve been giving them the shirt off your back. Its time you do something for you. Take a proper break, treat yourself, go for a walk, spoil yourself a bit. I nodded, halfconvinced, halfamused. Emilys been married for seven years and has no kids, so she knows what it feels like to have the luxury of metime.
Her advice stuck. Laura will be on holiday next week, and Ive got a week off work too. I decided to make the most of it and live for myself for once.
I let the alarm sleep in this morning, letting Laura and Ben shuffle off to work and school. They didnt even try to rouse me I think they sensed a change in the air. I handed each of them a bag of sandwiches, kissed them goodbye, and slipped out the back door.
First stop: the barbershop on High Street. I stared at my reflection, grumbling about the thinning crown. A quick trim and a tidy fade later, I felt ten years younger. The barber said I looked right dapper, and I could see Lauras eyebrows raise when I showed her the new look later.
Feeling spry, I headed to the town centre. I tried on a few jumpers in the boutique; none quite hit the mark. Then I spotted a bright orange sweatshirt with a cheeky print that Ben would love Im a proper lad. The size was spot on, and I could already picture him grinning, hugging me in thanks. I bought it for him, thinking only of his joy.
I wandered into the shoe and bag section, admiring a sleek leather tote and a pair of polished brogues. I was getting a bit weary when a flashing sign announced Big Savings on Designer Fragrances. There, in the display, sat my favourite Dior Homme a scent Ive coveted for ages. The discount was too tempting to pass up. I imagined the lingering aroma as Id walk past the office, a small reminder of my own indulgence. I also grabbed a fresh aftershave balm to match my new haircut.
Next, I descended to the supermarket on the mezzanine. Im a bit of a sweet tooth, so I headed straight for the confectionery aisle. Rows of buttery shortbread, chocolate digestives and almond biscuits beckoned. I tossed a packet of each into my trolley, thinking of the simple pleasure of a homemade tea treat later. I also picked up a whole duck, a bag of Basmati rice and a few crisp apples Id roast the duck with a drizzle of honey and serve it with a side of rice and apples, a little feast just for me.
On my way back, Baxter, our golden retriever, was waiting at the door, tail wagging like a flag. Take a proper stroll, Tom, Emilys words rang in my head. I leashed him and set off for the nearby park. I tossed the ball, chased a stick, and breathed in the fresh spring air. By the time I returned home, my cheeks were pink and my spirits lifted.
While the duck throbbed in the oven and the apple crumble baked, Laura and Ben slipped back in. Lauras eyes widened at my fresh haircut and the new coat hanging on the back of a chair. You look smashing, love! she exclaimed, planting a kiss on my cheek. There was a spark in her gaze, a warm glow that made my heart thud.
Ben ran up, eyes alight. Dad, you look like Uncle Mick! he laughed, pointing at my hair. That shirt is brilliant! He hugged me tight, clutching the new sweatshirt.
We sat down together, sharing the duck, the roast potatoes and the carameltopped crumble. Laura praised the meal, Delicious, Tom youve outdone yourself. Ben mumbled between bites, Mmm, best cake ever. The house was filled with contented sighs.
Later, as Ben drifted off to sleep and Laura dimmed the lights, I poured a glass of red wine, the kind we keep for special occasions. I raised the glass to the empty room and whispered, Heres to living for oneself, even if just for a week.
Emily called later that night, voice trembling. He left me, Tom. He ran off with some new lass from work. Im devastated. I listened, offering what comfort I could, reminding her that her worth isnt tied to a man and that shell soon find a proper partner not a cow as she joked, but a true companion. I told her to focus on herself, to enjoy the freedom she now has.
As the candle flickered and the night grew quiet, I settled onto Lauras lap, feeling her steady breath against my cheek. I realized how right Emily was: living for oneself isnt selfish; its essential. When you fill your own cup, youre better able to pour into the lives of those you love.
Lesson learned: a man who cares for himself can love more deeply, and a week of selfcare can reshape a whole year.
Tom.
