My Balance (Please, Don't Let Me Fall Over!)
Bad blogger, right here! Two months since my last post is not acceptable and it's time to get back on track! It's a bit scary that we are already in March. Spring is right around the corner (thank goodness!!!) and before we know it summer will be here!
The past two months have been typical for a family with two kids. For those of you who have more than two...more power to you!!! Due to my husband's work schedule, I'm the one who has primary responsibility for all things "KIDS" right now. Drop-off, pick-up, school projects, homework, doctor appointments, sick days, CCD, birthday parties, sports practices, hockey games, cooking dinner, school closings, yadda, yadda, yadda. Oh, and in-between all that I have that pesky little full time job :) It's a lot and at times completely nuts. But I think I'm getting there. I'm figuring out a routine that's working for all of us. Yes, there are times I flip my lid or think it's totally acceptable for the kids to eat cheese-doodles and M&Ms for dinner (on those nights the kids LOVE ME and have no problem doing what I ask/say). I'm finding my "work/life balance" amongst all this chaos and feeling pretty good about it.
Before I go any further, I want to state that this post has nothing to do with the life of a working mom versus the life of a stay at home mom. This is totally my ramble on MY situation and outlook. Everyone has a lifestyle that works for them. Some people choose that life style, and some don't choose it but adapt and make it work. Whatever your views on this topic may be, I accept your opinion. However, it's not my intent to spark that discussion here. Ok, let's continue.
My mom was a single, full-time working mom. She was fortunate to have a support system, AKA - my amazing grandmother, to help along the way. I know a lot of single-parents who are playing the roles of mom and dad. To your efforts, I bow down to you! There are nights where my husband comes home late, but is there in time to put the kids to bed so I can sit and relax for a bit. Many of you don't have that luxury. Your day starts very early in the morning and ends late at night with no breaks in-between. On the weekends you are "off from work" but you are still running around like a mad man/woman doing everything else you couldn't cram in during the week...and then some. There's nobody there to give you that "rest" that you definitely deserve and most likely, really need.
Now when things seem to be out of control, I really try to take a step back and remind myself that things aren’t as bad as they seem. I am blessed to have my hubby support system. I’m fortunate I work for a company who values work/life balance. I’m grateful to have two beautiful health kids who sometimes drive me up a wall and through the roof because they are the ones to remind me to not sweat the small stuff and to stop and have fun.
Regardless if you are in a dual parent relationship or are going at things alone, if you find your balance and make it work, then you are a ROCK STAR! All of you, keep up the good work!