As August wraps up, I start my countdown. It’s time to stock up on essentials, folks! Here’s some fresh underwear, and don’t forget the socks! Grab your No. 2 pencils, kiddos!
Inside, I’m doing a happy dance—September is just around the corner. The chaos of summer is behind me, and I can practically see the endless possibilities ahead.
I envision organizing my cabinets, clearing the mountain of papers on my desk until I finally find my keyboard. I plan to create photo books that chronicle the last five years of memories, slim down a bit, declutter my minivan, and even craft a quilt from my kids’ old shirts. I’ll volunteer at their school, sign up to substitute teach, and help out at the local soup kitchen. I will be (insert jazz hands) phenomenal!
But let’s be real for a moment—I know this urge to be Super Mom is partially fueled by my past self, a 1993 feminist with dreams and a college degree, who never imagined life would turn out like this. So, I set my sights high for September, believing it will be a time of endless opportunity.
But somehow, reality sets in. Between cleaning the kitchen, jogging around the block, juggling laundry, and dashing to Target for project supplies, before I know it, I’m picking the kids up again. October rolls in, and I realize that my grand plans have fallen flat.
I’m left feeling a bit disheartened. I had high hopes for September, and it feels like I let myself down.
September feels like a new beginning, much like New Year’s Day for families, educators, and moms. Every year, I stick a hefty list of expectations on this fresh slate. Last year, when my youngest started kindergarten, I ambitiously resolved to run a marathon, pen a book, and declutter every closet in the house—what a reasonable plan, right?
Fast forward a year, and I’ve only managed to tackle three closets, which are already messy again. I’m still waiting for that marathon medal to hang on my wall, and there’s no book on my shelf with my name on it. In fact, there’s barely any evidence of my presence at all.
So, here’s my advice: Let it go.
You won’t run marathons or write that bestseller, and volunteering might have to wait—unless you’re fueled by copious amounts of coffee. The reality is, being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time gig of its own, complete with laundry, dishes, homework, and countless car rides.
Before you dive into September resolutions, here’s a more manageable list to consider:
- Take a deep breath. You deserve it.
- Celebrate every load of laundry, every meal you prepare, and each time you help your kids with homework. You’re doing great.
- Find a moment for yourself—your soul might be hiding next to the washer.
- Remember that 1993 version of you had no clue what was ahead.
- Be patient. This parenting journey won’t last forever, and soon enough, you’ll have time for all the other stuff.
- Accept that you are enough, just as you are.
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In summary, September is a time for realistic goals, self-acceptance, and appreciating the small victories. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the journey.