My New Mom Mantra: S*** Happens – Here’s Why

As a mom, I often think of my anxieties like a wardrobe full of shoes: each day, I pick which worries to wear. Some days, I’m concerned about baby-led weaning; other days, I’m preoccupied with whether my baby is dressed appropriately for the weather. Right now, my biggest source of stress is Covid.

Every fever, cough, or runny nose sends me into a panic. Given that little ones seem to catch bugs frequently, I find myself in a constant state of alertness, just like many other parents of toddlers. Having been pregnant during the height of the pandemic and now raising a child while constantly reminded to mask up and sanitize has made it difficult for me to relax.

On one hand, I know that children need exposure to germs to strengthen their immune systems, and there are reports suggesting that too much isolation might make them more vulnerable to illnesses later on. I wrestle with the tension between wanting to shield my child from harmful germs while also allowing her to be adventurous and confident.

Finding a Balance

What’s my solution? I’ve been embracing outdoor activities. Regardless of the weather, I make it a point to take my little one outside to interact with other kids in a safer environment. It feels like something out of “The Babysitter’s Club.”

Last week, I confidently packed for a trip to the park, ensuring I had everything: a diaper bag, multiple wipes, and spare clothes for any potential mess. When we arrived, I let her explore the playground while I sipped tea, attempting to embody the relaxed mom vibe.

But instead of heading for the slides, she made a beeline for a large stick. At this point, she’s in a “stick phase,” believing every stick is a treasure. As she turned to show me her discovery, I realized it was covered in dog poop. I lunged forward, but it was too late – her tiny hands were already smeared with filth.

In a frantic attempt to retrieve the stick while preventing further mess, I crouched down, feeling overwhelmed about potential germs. Of course, the diaper bag was far away in the stroller, leaving me to improvise a makeshift cleanup station. So much for the benefits of fresh air and germs.

Later that evening, after a bubble bath and a glass of wine, I realized that the dog poop incident was a perfect metaphor for parenting today. We’re terrified of the known challenges and even more anxious about the unknown ones.

The Pressure of Modern Parenting

Unlike previous generations, who seemed less anxious about germs, today’s parents, especially millennial moms, juggle numerous expectations. We strive to be our kids’ teachers, entertainers, and nurturers while often balancing careers. The pressure feels intense, especially with the added stress of a global pandemic and the perfect, curated lives we see online.

I don’t want my daughter to pick up on my anxieties, but I also want to protect her from Covid as best as I can. This is a relatable struggle for many parents with young children who continue to navigate this uncertain landscape.

So, as we wait for a sense of normalcy to return, let’s remember that even when we do our utmost, sometimes life throws us a curveball. But at the end of a tough day, we can always wash off the mess and enjoy a relaxing moment with a glass of wine.

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Summary

In her candid reflection, Jenna Parker shares the challenges of modern motherhood, especially during a pandemic. Struggling with anxiety over her child’s health while wanting her to enjoy life, she recounts a humorous yet relatable incident involving dog poop at the park. The pressures of parenting today feel overwhelming, but amidst the chaos, she finds solace in the importance of resilience and embracing the messiness of life.

Keyphrase: parenting during a pandemic

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