After reading through the blog recently (and getting some very honest feedback from a good friend), I started noticing that my blogs were sounding a little defeated-- as if I only have complaints and worries as a SAHM-- and I SO don't want to sound like that! It is certainly NOT how I feel. I definitely do have days that are challenging, just like we all do, but I have so many more days and moments spent with my kids that are filled with such joy and wonder and fulfillment-- and I need to write about those days too. Today happened to be one of those days.
Today we had no plans (which can lead to either bliss or disaster for a SAHM), and I had been thinking of taking the girls to the Natural History Museum for a while. A friend was going to meet us, but she couldn't make it, so I almost bagged the idea, until Abby reminded me that she wanted to see the dinosaurs. So we all got dressed, packed a lunch, and drove downtown on a chilly, windy, rainy Thursday. I had no expectations for how the girls would do (Lily hates being in a stroller these days, but is still not trustworthy walking around in a crowd), but we plowed ahead anyway. Sure enough, Lily stayed in her stroller for less than 5 minutes before she screamed to get out, and out she went...and she did great!! The museum was not crowded at all, and she and Abby walked around together squealing with delight while showing me the stuffed alligator, the "tree boat", the "T-Rex with tiny arms", the "fishie" fossils, the planets and stars, and so on. There were no tantrums, no fighting-- just a wonderfully simple day spent together. After having lunch, and walking through again to see our favorite things one more time, we drove home tired and ready for naps. We had such a great time that I even bought an annual family pass (something I am known for doing at every establishment, much to my husband's dismay). I realize that the next time we go might not be quite as smooth as today, but that's ok. I will cherish today as a day I feel privileged and thankful to be a SAHM with two such amazing kids.
-Beth
This "mommy blog" is for all moms out there who are working in and out of the home, from the perspective of two best friends with completely different "mommy lives" (one with a successful career in business and one who stays home), but the same fundamental goal: to be the best moms we can be. Our purpose is to bridge the gap between the two different "mommy worlds" based on our two perspectives in experiencing the ups and downs of each, all while maintaining our 12-year-and-counting friendship.
I wanted to add to this post to say that I hope this blog is able to strike a balance between venting about tough days (which is needed, healthy, and cathartic for all of us), while also remembering the successes and triumphs we all have as mothers-- these happy days are what makes it all worth it, after all!! The goal of this blog is to support and celebrate each other, no matter how different our daily lives may be.
ReplyDeleteAnother idea that a friend suggested to me was to start sharing what sorts of things make our days easier-- for example, a certain quick recipe for a healthy dinner, the name of a mommy and me class that meets after work, some crafts and games that can make a long day at home more fun, a dry shampoo that allows you to skip a hair-washing (Anna-- it's called Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo, and I ordered it on Amazon... :)), etc. I think it's a great idea-- let's try it and see if we can help each other out!
-Beth
As a working mom, that's the kind of activity that I sometimes do wish I could go do with Jimmy. Thinking I should take a day off soon and go to that museum with him. Or maybe we can go together now that you know the ropes there and have that annual pass to make use of! :) - Michelle
ReplyDeleteThanks, Eva! Those are great suggestions-- especially the Thursday night ones for Dads! :) And Michelle-- take a day off and let's go to the museum! Our membership has a couple guest passes. :)
ReplyDelete-Beth
I don't think you are complaining at all!!! If anything...I feel your pain/joy!! I really do believe we have the hardest job for the one fact we NEVER get a break. I tell my husband that I'm jealous of his drive to work (20 minutes) because it is alone/quiet time away from the kids... and he thinks I'm crazy! So I think it's great that you are venting, it helps with the sanity. I must be a "debbie downer" compared to you! lol.
ReplyDelete