Getting the kids ready for school. Trying to sneak in time for a quick shower. Giving your husband a tired smile before he leaves for work. Making sure you have time to go on a run later. Heck, making sure you have time to simply run to the grocery store later.
As a mom, we have our work cut out for us. We look around the mess, take in the chaos, and draw in a deep breath. We’re all allotted the same 24 hours in a day, but why do those hours seem so dang short for some of us? There’s never enough time to get everything done.
Listen, momma. You’ve got enough on your plate right now, between the pandemic, trying to worry about your family, and working hard to take care of yourself. Here’s a little secret that you probably really need to hear right now: you’re not perfect, but that’s okay.
Surprise — nobody else is, either! We’re just faking it better. But this isn’t a “who can fake it better” contest, and nobody is judging you for your so-called shortcomings. If you’re not doing these things perfectly, then welcome to the club. Goodness knows, we’ve been waiting for you.
Tonight’s Dinner Came Out of the Freezer
Every morning starts with good intentions, and one of those intentions may have been to spend time in the kitchen, whipping up an organic and healthy dinner for you and the kiddos. But come dinner time, and you don’t have anything set out or thawed…
And yep, dinner’s coming out of the freezer again. If you’re lucky, you’ll find some not-so-freezer burned leftovers in there. And if you’re like us, it’s mostly dino nuggets, a microwaved serving of broccoli, and some mac and cheese.
This Is the Third Day You’ve Worn Those Pants
Remember when you were able to stay on top of ol’ Jabba the Laundry Pile? You gathered up your dirty clothes a couple of times a week, threw them in the wash, and voila — you were good to go.
These days, you’re lucky if your toddler’s food-stained clothes or your baby’s spit-up covered shirt makes it into the laundry this week. The casualty of this increased workload is, of course, your own clothes. Hey, nobody can tell your yoga pants are dirty, so you’re fine. Put that mom guilt away, okay?
Fitness? More like “Fittin’ This Bagel in My Mouth”
We all dream of being that wife and mom. You know the one. She’s got her stuff together, she makes it to yoga or pilates three times a week, and she’s always got that sort of healthy glow to her. Zits or dry skin? She doesn’t know ‘em. And we kinda sorta lowkey hate her. (But not really.)
You don’t have time to work out. Your version of exercise is chasing the little ones around the living room, and if the dog is giving you that mournful look, you’ll take him for a quick stroll around the block. Shoving food in your while standing over the sink is a workout, right?
You Forgot to Fill Up the Tank Again
Ugh, okay, who is to blame for this one? You swear you told the hubby to do it before heading home from work yesterday, and he insists that you promised you’d do it when you went to the grocery store this afternoon. Regardless of who’s to blame, the tank is empty and you’re both upset.
If you’re lucky enough to have an electric vehicle (EV), then keeping it charged is a breeze with a Level 2 charger. Otherwise, we’re afraid that both of you probably forgot to fill up the tank this week, but we both know he’ll be the one to do it for you when you ask him sweetly. (Thanks, honey!)
Not Tonight, Honey…and Maybe Not Tomorrow, Too
Oof, let’s be real here. When was the last time you felt sexy? Or like, even… y’know, cute? These days, dad bods are all the rage, so your husband has been given a free pass on gaining a few after saying your vows. But what about you?
Look, if you’re feeling frumpy, tired, and flat-out not in the mood, then your feelings are absolutely valid. Even if your husband is batting his eyes at you and doing the dishes as a form of foreplay, even though you’re dead on your feet, you’re going to have to give him a pass on the intimacy tonight. And maybe tomorrow, as well.
Being Kind to Yourself
If any of these things sound like you, then guess what? You’re normal, girlfriend. Every. Single. Woman. Has gone through this, and it’s okay to feel like you’re somehow failing. Chin up. We promise, you’re not a failure, and nobody in their right minds will think so.
However, there is one thing you could probably do better, and that’s being compassionate with yourself. The mess will still be there tomorrow. So will your four-days-dirty-now yoga pants. But the one thing that will remain consistent is the fact that even if you’re not SuperMom, you’re still a hero to us.