I will make it my mission to fill our days with laughter, connection, play, new adventures, learning, healthy meals, and well-timed rest for everyone involved.
I’ll plan playdates with other moms and their little ones—because we all need that camaraderie to keep our sanity intact. However, if a day unfolds with tears, sibling squabbles, boredom, junk food, and naps that go awry, I’ll embrace it and work towards a brighter tomorrow.
I won’t dive headfirst into a bag of M&Ms or chips to drown my sorrows, as that will only lead to a bigger waistline. Instead, I’ll reach out to friends via text for support and get the kids outside as soon as possible. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, I won’t feel like the universe is against me. I’ll craft another plan, even if it just means a trip to Target.
I’ll aim to be budget-conscious, resisting the allure of an overpriced box of organic cookies at Whole Foods. I’ll turn to the internet, magazines, and community recommendations for free or low-cost activities. Groupon will be my ally in ensuring I never pay full price for family outings.
Instead of dwelling in negativity, I’ll focus on positive requests. I’ll strive to empathize instead of chastising, to explain rather than yell, to supervise instead of patronize, and to breathe instead of seethe. Thanks for that wisdom, Jessie.
I’ll carve out time for exercise to keep my mood in check and to avoid needing a new wardrobe due to an expanding belly. I’ll recognize the importance of personal time and, if I feel overwhelmed, I’ll make a plan to get some childcare, change into workout clothes or something nice, and step out for a bit.
During meltdowns, I will remain calm and composed. I won’t get swept away by my child’s emotional storm. Instead, I’ll give them space to cool off or hold them close, depending on what they need. I’ll protect them from harm by discreetly placing a blanket nearby as they thrash about.
On Sundays, I’ll organize a meal plan for the week so I’m not frazzled at 5 PM every day. I will prioritize sleep. When the kids go down for their naps, I’ll rest, not clean, write, or scroll through social media. I’ll set an alarm if necessary to ensure I can recharge before my unpredictable napper wakes up and steals my precious rest.
I’ll remind myself that potty training is a journey and that my children won’t be voting in their first presidential election in diapers. I’ll utilize the occasional screen time—after all, PBS is educational and helpful.
I’ll make an effort to nurture my relationship with my partner, ensuring we enjoy our roles as husband and wife, not just as parents. Staying informed about the latest parenting ideas and philosophies will be a priority for me. I’ll aim to channel more of June Cleaver than Roseanne, but I won’t beat myself up over what I didn’t accomplish.
When I stumble, when I yell, or when my kids binge-watch too much Caillou, I’ll remind myself I’m a good mother, and they are just as fortunate to have me as I am to have them.
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