Don't know where to post this.

[MichelleLT]

Make sure you keep communication about the kids open. Make sure you arrange time to spend with them. But you are right, being a little mysterious and having other plans is great GALing. She doesn't need to know unless it's about coordinating childcare, and you can just say that you have plans with friends.

You need to keep consciously working on these things. Once you have created some new habits it will get easier. It takes repetition to make a new habit.