Menu: Parenting
By: Lisa Thompson
Date: July 12, 2016
As I stood there cradling my 4-year-old, who was in the throes of an all-out meltdown after picking at a scab on her knee, I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. She was convinced she had spotted a minuscule drop of blood, and, being particularly sensitive about such matters, her panic was palpable. A Band-Aid would have eased her distress, but we were fresh out—thanks to our little scab-picker. I hadn’t yet assessed the supposed injury, and when I finally did, there was, of course, no blood to be found.
It was 7 a.m., and in addition to comforting my distraught child over her imaginary ailment, I was attempting to prepare breakfast for four, unload the dishwasher, start a load of laundry, check work emails, compile a grocery list, and mentally gear up for a day spent with the kids during summer break.
Sleep had eluded me the previous night, and I had missed the chance to complete two hours of work before everyone else woke up. Once they’re up, it’s a different game altogether. The consequences of not sleeping weighed heavily on my mind: deadlines looming, paperwork for summer camp needing to be filled out, a call to the septic tank service pending, emails unanswered, and the guilt of skipping my workout nagging at me. Oh, and I had promised the kids a day at the pool. What was I thinking?!
Just then, my husband, freshly showered and invigorated from his morning workout, strolled in and expressed his reluctance to head to work. A wave of envy washed over me, catching me off guard. I didn’t voice my feelings—adding “argue with my husband” to my already overwhelming list of tasks was not an option. Instead, I simply replied, “Mmhmm,” while I continued to hold my little one just a tad too tightly, trying to soothe her.
With my husband heading off to work unscathed, I resumed my juggling act. The moment of jealousy passed, but throughout the day, I couldn’t shake the vision of driving off into the morning sun, wind in my hair, music playing, and no one screaming, “Drive slower! I’m going to be sick!” The thought stirred a longing I hadn’t acknowledged. How wonderful it would be to have an entire day dedicated solely to work, without interruptions to change diapers or to intervene during mud-related shenanigans.
I want to emphasize that I usually enjoy being a work-at-home mom (WAHM). It’s a choice I’ve made, and it works for me. However, it’s undoubtedly a balancing act of monumental dimensions.
Having worked full-time outside the home since becoming a mother, I understand that the image I conjured isn’t an accurate reflection of reality. I am not wishing this time away; I know it’s fleeting, and soon my children will need me less. Yet, in those moments when I am grappling with sticky hands and the chaos of sibling disputes, I can’t help but envy the simplicity of my husband’s routine. I’m sure he can’t fathom the joys of spending the day in pajamas, playing with the kids, sneaking in naps, and perhaps even finding time to write, as he likely imagines my life to be.
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In summary, the life of a parent is filled with challenges and unexpected emotions, often leading to moments of envy and introspection. Both working parents and stay-at-home parents face unique struggles, and understanding these dynamics can foster greater empathy and appreciation for each other’s experiences.
Keyphrase: Balancing Parenting and Work
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