I’m a Mom, and I Need a Break

home insemination Kit

Today, I’m throwing in the towel on the way I’ve been handling motherhood. I just can’t keep going like this.

Last night, my toddler decided that 3 a.m. was prime time for a TV binge, and no amount of coaxing could change his mind for over an hour. At our Mommy and Me class, he almost dashed into a parking lot filled with buses. After class, he was on the floor in tears because the teacher forgot to sing “Wheels on the Bus.”

And oh, the after-school chaos with my 8-year-old, Liam. His teachers rave about how well-behaved he is, but as soon as he sees me, it’s like he unravels. He skipped out of school, slammed his backpack against me, and complained that I didn’t pack chocolate milk in his lunch. Then, he tossed his coat at me and dashed off to join his friends on the playground.

Both boys were having a blast outside, climbing trees and chasing each other. They were sweet to their friends, sharing snacks and helping anyone who stumbled. I love watching them play in the vibrant autumn sun; it warms my heart.

But then it was time to head home, and suddenly, all the frustrations bubbled up. Liam wanted to leave immediately, but my little one, Max, was not ready. Liam yanked on Max’s coat, and I had to step in, threatening to take away screen time to get them to cooperate. After some negotiation (bribery), I finally got them to leave, but the walk home was just as hectic. Liam corrected everything Max said, while Max sprinted ahead as if he were racing a car, and I feared he’d dart into the street.

Usually, I try to empathize with their antics. I get that they’re just kids, and I’m grateful for them. I know it’s normal for them to express their feelings with me, their trusted mom. I let them cry on my shoulder and test my limits.

But today was different. Today, I felt completely overwhelmed, like I was just a servant in this motherhood gig. I felt exposed and raw. I wanted my feelings to count too.

Once we were home, I resolved to change my approach. It was time to assert myself. The boys kicked their shoes off in the hallway, and I calmly asked them to please put them on the shoe rack. I wasn’t raising my voice; I was just stating what I needed.

Liam protested, but Max quickly followed my request; he knows when I mean business. Liam eventually complied, then leaned into me with that adorable smile of his, asking for a bagel and lemonade before running off to his screen time.

I halted him, saying, “Okay, grab the toaster, and get yourself a cup.” He looked at me like I had two heads and started to whimper, “I’m tired.” I understood—most days, I would just whip up a snack for him. But today, I said, “I’m tired too. I need your help.”

He grumbled but ultimately got the cup and the toaster down. The same thing happened when I asked him to take out his homework and lunchbox. A little pushback, then he did it.

Max wanted a bagel too and whined for one. I encouraged him to ask politely. “Pweeze?” he said, his big green eyes shining.

Before long, Liam was sharing stories about his day while adjusting the toaster settings and helping Max. Both boys were laughing and being kind to each other. Liam even asked about a story I published recently, while Max stroked my hair. It felt good to be listened to and respected.

Typically, I ask for cooperation and enforce rules, but sometimes, it’s just easier to let things slide or to lose my cool. But today, I stood my ground. I realized my needs are just as important as theirs. I’m a woman, a mom, who deserves to express herself and advocate for her own needs.

I laid it all out there and told them, “I need your help,” because I truly couldn’t do it all alone. And to my surprise, they listened. They responded with love and kindness, showing me that if I’m not fulfilled, they won’t be either.

Moving forward, I’m going to prioritize my own feelings and ask for help when I need it. I can still be their loving mom, the one who makes snacks and comforts them after a long day. But I’ll also make sure my voice is heard and that I matter too.

If you want to explore more about parenting and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination and read about how to use an artificial insemination kit for your journey. You can find more parenting insights at our website, including our thoughts on finding balance in motherhood and more.

Summary:

In this article, a mother shares her struggles and realizations about the challenges of parenting. After a particularly exhausting day, she decides to assert her needs and communicate with her children. By asking for their help and expressing her feelings, she fosters a more respectful and loving environment. The author emphasizes the importance of acknowledging her own needs as a mother while still fulfilling her role.