The career of stay at home mom is one that I am not qualified for. Although I love my kids dearly, after a few days home with them my patience is pretty much non-existent. While some people think SAHM’s have the life, I know that it is one of the hardest jobs in the world. The amount of times I hear “Mommy!” from 5 pm-9pm is unreal, and I could not imagine hearing it all day long, 7 days a week. Even if I wanted to (which I don’t), being a SAHM is not an option for me so I am one of the many moms who work outside of the home.
Ahhh, work. I do love it. My cubicle is mine. No one touches my stuff. I decorate it as I please and no one steals my snacks. My electronic devices are safe. For 8+ hours, people refer to me by my first name. Adult conversation and listening to Howard Stern help to get me through the day, along with the adrenaline rush from getting a sale. Don’t get it twisted though. Just because I am at work does not mean that I don’t have to make their doc appointments, worry about them, miss them, and feel major guilt because my in-laws (who I am grateful for) get to spend more time with them than I do. Sometimes Scarlett calls me Nonna because she is so used to being with my MIL.
It’s been over 5 years trying to juggle work and motherhood. I am not sure if I will ever find a perfect balance, but I try. Some nights when hubs is coaching, it’s chicken nuggets and a can of green beans for dinner. I love you, microwave. Preparing meals is impossible. Our house is a hot mess but I have to accept it or I will go crazy. Choosing between doing the dishes and coloring with the kids many times results in a ton of dirty dishes. Hubs and I rarely have time to talk- and if we do we are interrupted. This is reality and I am OK with it.
Disclaimer: if we were super rich and the kids could go to school/camp/etc. and I had the option NOT to work you better believe that I would quit my j-o-b. Coffee with friends, going to the gym, shopping, cleaning the house during the day…now that sounds like a routine I could learn to love. In the meantime I will keep on doing my thing and hope that one day I will learn to manage this crazy stage in my life.
You are not alone! I was at home with the kids for 6 months when I lost my job. Initially I was so looking forward to it, but then it happened and I was a mess. I applaud SAHM but also the working ones. Everyone needs to find what works for them to be the best parent they can for their kids. I am a better Mom when I have my “me” time. Thanks for a great post!
I’m so loving reading your blog! Yes, I’m 52 but can so relate to all of this! Looking forward to your next post!