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- These Are The Days (And Some of Them Are Tough)
by Sarah Thompson
May 24, 2023
They say these are the days we’ll cherish when we’re older—the cuddles, the laughter, the sweet smell of baby shampoo wafting through our memories. But let’s be real: the days when we shower our little ones with kisses will quickly turn into nights filled with slammed doors and secret outings. We might find ourselves longing for the days when time-outs and forced apologies were all we had to deal with.
In the midst of toddlerhood, it’s tough to see the bigger picture. I adore my little ones more than anything. I’d walk through fire for their happiness. However, the chaotic bedtime routines, the inevitable messes, and their unpredictable moods can be exhausting.
When you’re knee-deep in the challenges of parenting, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Sure, there are countless heartfelt articles that tug at our emotions and make us feel guilty for not crafting one more glitter masterpiece with our kids. But what about the days when all you want is a break from the glue, playdough, and endless squabbles over toys? Those days when your energy is spent before lunch, and the thought of a bath feels like climbing a mountain? Does that make us bad parents? Unappreciative?
The internet often makes us feel like we’re falling short. Perfectly curated images of moms with endless energy, who seem to handle everything with grace, flood our feeds. We see snapshots of smiling children making messes, and we’re led to believe that if we don’t cater to our kids’ every whim, we’re somehow failing. But let’s face it: those portrayals are just highlights. They don’t show you the chaos behind the scenes—like the ten minutes of tantrums leading up to that cute photo or the mom cursing softly as she cleans the bathroom floor for the umpteenth time. They miss the reality of wearing the same stained shirt for three days straight.
I don’t want to come off as ungrateful for the time spent with my boys. I recognize this role is a gift, and I’ll pour my heart into raising kind, respectful young men. Still, I know that, in hindsight, these days will seem more magical.
Sure, there will be days filled with adventures—visiting dinosaur exhibits, conquering schoolwork, or enjoying playdates filled with laughter. We’ll collect fireflies and create art together. Some days will be truly amazing. Yet, there will also be days we never get out of our pajamas, indulge in TV marathons, or deal with toddler negotiations over vegetables. Some days, I’ll sneak snacks while playing hide-and-seek, and yes, some days will be downright tough.
Years from now, I’ll look back at my grown boys and feel grateful for every moment that shaped us. I’ll remember not just the wonderful memories but also the messy days filled with cleaning and chaos. I’ll forgive myself for feeling overwhelmed and let go of the guilt from those perfect online portrayals.
Right now, as I navigate this challenging phase of parenting, I find solace in knowing that my kids are fed, clothed (even in hand-me-downs), and loved. Some days will create lasting memories, while others will be a struggle to forget.
While I appreciate hearing from those who have made it to the other side that these are indeed the days, I don’t need the reminder right now. As I wrestle with my toddler at the park, fail to sneak in a shower, or eat my meal quickly while my husband watches, I’m fully aware of these moments. If I’m honest, I can’t wait for some of these days to become memories.
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Summary:
This piece reflects on the challenging yet rewarding journey of motherhood, acknowledging both the joyful and difficult moments we experience with our children. While it emphasizes the importance of cherishing memories, it also recognizes that some days are just tough. The author encourages fellow parents to accept the chaos and appreciate the journey, even when it feels overwhelming.