As soon as I found out I was expecting my second son, I jotted down a title for a blog post: “Mama Needs a Break.” Now, my baby is six months old, and I still haven’t managed to write the actual post. Instead, I think I dozed off beside my computer, utterly exhausted.
Scrolling through my drafts, I realized how many moms would resonate with this sentiment. How often do we catch ourselves sighing after our three-year-old throws a monumental fit over a cup color? You know the moment—”OMG, I really need a break before I lose my mind!”
Yet, as parents, genuine breaks seem elusive. I don’t count putting the kids to bed early to catch a few minutes of my favorite show before crashing as a break. Dropping them at Grandma’s for a dinner date with my husband? Not really a break either. Always lurking in the back of my mind is the nagging reminder of responsibilities—like not having too much to drink on date night because I’ll be up at 4:30 a.m. to tend to the baby or the endless list of chores that need attention.
When I think of a break, I envision a true escape—some time away from responsibilities, free from laundry, cooking, or dealing with midnight accidents. I don’t want to worry about letting the dog out for the umpteenth time that day.
Disclaimer: I adore my children more than anything. I would move mountains for them.
Disclaimer #2: Unfortunately, I feel the need to clarify this because, let’s face it, judgment is all too common.
I vividly recall the first time my husband and I managed to get away—three months after our first child was born. We arrived at our hotel and simply laid on the bed, enveloped in silence. It was pure bliss.
However, it’s been far too long since we had that kind of getaway. While our family vacations are wonderful, they demand early wake-ups and non-stop attention to the kids. I cherish those moments, but I can’t remember the last time I lounged by the pool with a book in peace—baby monitor by my side. I feel like I’m constantly on edge, worrying about whether the kids are okay or if the babysitter can handle the chaos.
Is this feeling normal? Please tell me I’m not alone here.
For just one week, I want to:
- Sleep through the night without worrying about crying kids.
- Take long, uninterrupted showers.
- Enjoy some quiet time.
- Watch TV sprawled out on a bed without a kid trying to commandeer the remote.
- Savor meals without little fingers stealing bites from my plate.
- Avoid laundry altogether.
- Rejuvenate and focus on myself.
- Change zero diapers.
- Sidestep any clean-up duties for a week.
- Engage in uninterrupted conversations with my husband without little ones interrupting.
Am I being selfish? I don’t think so. Everyone deserves a little downtime to recharge. To be the best parents we can be, we need to take breaks.
I’ve resolved to prioritize some time off in 2023. My husband and I will escape somewhere to unwind. I’ll read, take long showers, and enjoy dinners without high chairs in sight. Sure, I’ll miss those sticky fingers and adorable giggles after a day, but it’ll be worth it. After all, I dedicate my life to raising these little humans, and sometimes a breather is necessary. Plus, they say absence makes the heart grow fonder, right?
If you’re in a similar boat, consider checking out resources like Women’s Health for insightful information. And if you’re exploring home insemination options, CryoBaby’s Home Insemination Kit could be a helpful tool. You can also explore the CryoBaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit for a more personalized approach.
In summary, taking a break is essential for our well-being as parents. It’s about finding that balance between nurturing our children and caring for ourselves.
Keyphrase: Need a Break as a Parent
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