Updated: April 19, 2023
Originally Published: April 19, 2023
We all know that parenting can be exhausting. However, have you ever realized how your parenting style shifts as the day goes on? Mornings often start with a burst of energy—filled with grand plans and enthusiasm—while by the afternoon, it feels like I’m just trying to make it through. Despite my best intentions to be the ideal parent, my standards seem to waver after lunch. It’s like something magical happens at 2 p.m. that transforms me into a different version of myself.
Morning Mom:
She’s a planner, mapping out enriching activities for her child. A sensory station? A visit to the Arboretum for an exploratory nature tour? Volunteering at a local food bank? Maybe even baby yoga? Oh, how about a culinary adventure with fun facts about various countries? Sounds so enriching!
Afternoon Mom:
Does cereal count as enrichment?
Morning Mom:
She’s the epitome of understanding and patience during diaper changes, interpreting her child’s cries as deep expressions of vulnerability. “I get it, sweetie,” she reassures. “You’re feeling frustrated, but you’re safe with me, and all is well. Mommy loves you.”
Afternoon Mom:
Glancing at the diaper, she thinks, “It’s all good; you’re fine. Keep munching on that lamp cord. Let’s see if I can sneak in a drink soon.”
Morning Mom:
Sticks to a well-structured schedule. With the baby napping, she tidies up toys, sterilizes bottles, and even manages to shower and prepare home-cooked baby food. If there’s time, she might even squeeze in a quick workout!
Afternoon Mom:
Sits on the edge of her bed, staring at the monitor as feathers from the nursery decor are scattered everywhere. “Go to sleep already!” she mutters in frustration.
Morning Mom:
Follows the mantra, “When you look good, you feel good.” She puts her hair in a stylish top bun, applies a hint of makeup, and pairs her athleisure wear with a trendy bracelet. “You got this!” she tells herself, even as her leggings hug just a bit too tightly. Who needs a thigh gap anyway?
Afternoon Mom:
By now, her bun has transformed into a scraggly mess at the base of her neck. With a sticky baby hand on her cheek and another trying to explore her top, she strolls into the nursery, crushed Cheerios sticking to her feet. She manages to swipe some of the baby’s organic lotion on her dry lips just as her phone rings. It’s Grandma wanting to video chat. “What’s going on?” Grandma asks. “Oh, I put foundation on this morning,” she replies, half-laughing, half-crying.
Morning Mom:
Worries about developmental milestones, checking her Wonder Weeks app to plan activities that align. She juggles sending an email to her partner, expressing concerns about their child’s lack of waving and pointing. “We should consult the pediatrician,” she suggests, while engaging her baby in a silent game of charades.
Afternoon Mom:
Just wants to escape the house for a walk. She bumps into an old schoolmate who seems surprised to see her. Her child, however, doesn’t return the overly enthusiastic wave. “Nice job, kiddo,” she thinks. “Mommy never liked her anyway.”
We love our little ones and want the best for them. Mornings brim with potential, but amidst diaper changes, feedings, and baby food prep, it’s hard to fit in everything. By the afternoon, I morph into Afternoon Mom—the less cheerful, less polished, and less motivated version of my morning self. Maybe we need to consider a new approach: Afternoon Moms—rested versions of ourselves by 2 p.m. I might just try that out!
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Summary:
This article humorously explores the contrast between “Morning Mom,” who is energetic and organized, and “Afternoon Mom,” who struggles to maintain that same level of enthusiasm as the day wears on. Both versions highlight the reality of parenting and the challenges faced throughout the day.