As the character Kelly Bundy once lamented, “There’s never enough time!” And if you think high school was tough, try navigating motherhood. You quickly learn that every moment—both awake and in those rare instances when you might catch a nap—is consumed by your adorable but demanding little ones who seem to think you exist solely to cater to their every whim.
I often think back to the days when I could indulge in whatever I fancied, whenever I fancied it. The days when I didn’t have to make a hundred mac and cheese dinners or help with potty training or keep my kids from doing something dangerous. Those days may be behind me for now, but here’s a list of things I’d dive into if I could carve out some time for myself:
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Dive Into a Real Book
I long for the chance to read a substantial book—one with no illustrations or animal characters, just pages filled with rich narratives and sophisticated themes. I dream of losing myself in a story so completely that I forget about everything else, including meals and movement. -
Tidy Up My Eyebrows
Let’s just say the area above my eyes could use some serious attention. In the right light, I can spot what looks like two caterpillars aiming for a reunion. A little upkeep would do wonders! -
Binge-Watch a New Series
I could indulge in a Netflix marathon, but the aftermath of staying up late only to wake up to a toddler ready to start the day as soon as the credits roll isn’t something I’m eager to face. -
Enjoy a Leisurely Brunch with Friends
I miss those carefree brunches with friends that could last for hours. The joy of sipping mimosas and sharing stories without a ticking clock is a distant memory. Now, I have to rush back home to tidy up and tend to my kids. -
Take a Solo Stroll
Remember the freedom of wandering aimlessly for hours? Those peaceful walks are now replaced with scheduled activities. Sometimes, I just want to clear my mind without a plan. -
Explore a New Hobby
Learning something new is said to be beneficial for longevity. I’d love to pick up painting or music, but that precious time is often consumed by less glamorous tasks like cleaning. -
Get Lost in the Internet’s Abyss
The internet is a treasure trove of distractions. One moment you’re researching cleaning tips, and the next you find yourself deep in celebrity gossip. However, I can’t afford to lose hours when I have more pressing matters at hand, like finding creative ways to feed my kids. -
Cook an Elaborate Meal
Imagine spending an entire day crafting a beautiful three-course meal for my partner. But with just 30 minutes to spare for dinner, that dream feels far-fetched unless he considers toast a gourmet starter. -
Reconnect with Distant Friends
I miss my friends from the past. While social media keeps us updated, it’s not the same as a heartfelt chat. Yet, every time I try to make a call, my kids have other ideas, like getting themselves stuck in furniture. -
Contemplate My Life’s Direction
What’s my purpose beyond the daily grind of work and parenting? I often ponder these questions, but when the oven timer dings, all deep thoughts fade away.
One day, when my kids are grown and independent, I’ll revisit these dreams. Until then, I’ll keep this list as a reminder of what I aspire to do. You can read more about this topic and other insights on our blog, where we discuss various aspects of family life and home insemination kits, such as the one featured at Make a Mom and WebMD.
Summary: In the whirlwind of motherhood, it’s easy to forget about personal time and self-care. This article captures the longing for leisure activities like reading, brunching with friends, and exploring new hobbies, emphasizing the importance of finding balance amid the chaos of parenting.