Menu
- Parenting
A Juggling Act of Monumental Proportions
July 12, 2016
There I was, cradling my 4-year-old, who was in the throes of a full-blown meltdown because she had picked a scab on her knee. In her mind, a minuscule drop of blood had emerged, and being the little drama queen she is about blood, she was convinced she was seriously injured. A Band-Aid would have worked wonders, but we were out—thanks to our scab-picking little one. When I finally glanced at the so-called injury, of course, there was no blood in sight.
It was 7 AM, and while I was trying to soothe my theatrical child with her imaginary ailment, I was also attempting to whip up breakfast for four, unload the dishwasher, start a load of laundry, check work emails, compile a grocery list, and gear up for a day of summer fun with the kids.
Sleep had eluded me the night before, and I found myself wishing I had used those quiet hours to complete the two hours of work that I desperately needed to finish before the chaos began. Once the kids are awake, it’s like a switch flips—no more productivity, just pandemonium. My brain was racing with thoughts: I need to write that article by noon, fill out the kids’ camp registration, call about the septic tank, send that email, and oh, I didn’t even get my workout in because I was busy tossing and turning. And yes, I had promised the kids a swimming trip today. What was I thinking?!
Just then, my husband sauntered in, freshly energized from a workout and shower, and muttered, “Ugh. I don’t feel like going to work today.”
A surge of envy washed over me that caught me off guard. I kept my mouth shut to avoid adding “Have a monumental argument with my husband” to my already overflowing to-do list. I simply replied, “Mmhmm,” while clutching our little actress a bit tighter.
He left for work, none the wiser, while I continued to juggle the demands of our family life. The fleeting moment of resentment faded, but throughout the day, I couldn’t shake the picture of myself speeding away each morning, hair flowing in the wind, music blaring on the radio—no one yelling, “Drive slower! I’m gonna puke!” The thought of having a day entirely to myself, focused solely on work without interruptions, filled me with a longing I hadn’t realized I possessed.
Don’t misunderstand me; I genuinely love being a work-at-home mom. It’s a choice I’ve made, and it usually works well for me. But it’s a balancing act of monumental proportions.
Having worked full-time outside the home since becoming a mom, I know that the fantasy I conjured is not always accurate. I refuse to wish this time away, knowing it’s just a fleeting phase. One day, my children won’t need me as much. Yet, in those moments when I’m covered in sticky unknown substances, mediating stick wars between the kids, and trying to keep my writing career afloat, I find it hard to imagine the luxury of my husband’s life. Just as he likely can’t fathom my day spent in pajamas, playing with the kids, napping in hammocks, and squeezing in some writing whenever I can.
If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, check out this informative piece on in vitro fertilisation, or explore this resource for more insights. And for those looking for quality products related to home insemination, visit Cryobaby’s offerings for a great selection.
In summary, parenting is a juggling act that constantly challenges our capacity to balance work and family life. While it can be overwhelming, it’s also rewarding—just a bit sticky at times.