What It’s Like to Parent Five Kids While Dad’s Away

Hey friends! If you’ve been paying attention, you’ve probably guessed that I’m flying solo while my husband is away, managing our lively crew of five kids. When he’s around, he’s an absolute lifesaver—helping with baths, putting the little ones to bed, and, let’s not forget, he’s a dishwashing wizard. But when he’s gone? It’s just me—exhausted, laundry-covered, and often in desperate need of a shower.

The Sleep Struggles

Here’s the deal: when their dad is home, our little ones drift off to sleep like cherubic angels. The moment he leaves, though? It’s like a sleep party gone wrong! My 2-year-old suddenly wants to have deep conversations about car engines and the moon at 2 a.m., which feels a bit like a scene from The Shining (minus the creepy twins).

The Dog Dilemma

In a twist of fate—let’s be honest, more of my doing—we have three dogs. And you know what that means: a barking extravaganza every time Dad is out! They seem to think it’s their duty to invite every dog in the neighborhood to join in. And let me tell you, that’s a lot of barking.

Plumbing Problems

Oh, and don’t even get me started on the plumbing. Our toilet always seems to clog when I’m on my own, sometimes leading to bathroom floods. Just what I need, right?

Illness and Chaos

As if that’s not enough, someone usually gets sick. I’m not talking about a sniffle; I mean full-on, feverish, “I need antibiotics” sick. And, of course, there are no sick days for me. “Power through” is the motto of a stay-at-home mom.

Endless Activities

All the kids’ activities and recitals happen while I’m solo, which means I’m driving around non-stop, often wishing I could just live in the car. My husband works in Silicon Valley, which is basically a nonstop party—think happy hours, team-building trips, and yes, beer in the office. Meanwhile, my fun days at home are spent mopping up messes and juggling tantrums.

To be fair, I do have beer in the fridge at home, but who has time to enjoy it, right?

Summary

Parenting five kids on your own while your partner is away can be a chaotic adventure filled with sleepless nights, plumbing disasters, and unexpected illnesses. It’s a whirlwind of activities and responsibilities, all while trying to find a moment for yourself (and maybe a sip of that beer in the fridge).