Like many of you I wear many hats. Before anything else I am a mother (to three beautiful daughters and 2 crazy dogs) and a wife. After that I am a maid, taxi cab driver, Daisy Troop Leader, and MOMS Club President. Once I finish all those jobs I am a romance writer.
Lately, I feel overwhelmed with all that I need to do. My day typically starts around 6:30 when I get my 5 year old up for school. During the day while she is gone, I bring my 3 year old twins to their activities or attempt to get housework done. Although I must admit I am a terrible housekeeper. Once 3:00 rolls around and my oldest daughter gets off the bus it is time for homework (both what the school sends home and then extra practice), unless of course it is a Tuesday night which means gymnastics or every other Monday because then it is time for girl scouts. Around 6:30 or so the hubby comes home, and it is time for dinner. Most nights the girls have already eaten by this time. Around 7:00 we put the girls up to bed and my husband reads them a story. Since I want to spend a little time with my husband we usually sit and watch television till about 9:00 together then he goes to bed and I start my other job, romance author and occasional critique partner.
To some this may sound like an easy schedule, but right now I am struggling to find some kind of balance. I am curious how do other people manage to balance their families and their other obligations with their careers? Is it possible to find balance without sacrificing something? I would love to hear every one's thoughts.
That is NOT an easy schedule! If I were you, I would pass out at 7 pm with the kids. I think the most important thing about getting everything done is doing short bursts. They add up. Do a quickie 15-minute clean-up in the morning and throw in a load of laundry. Sure, the house isn't sparkling clean, but it's good enough. Write for an hour. No, I haven't cranked out 10,000 words, but those 1500 words here and there add up. You have a lot going on during your day, so the most important thing is to enjoy the moment. ;^) Good luck!
ReplyDeleteYou are right Penny. 1500 words here and there does add up. Happy Holidays
DeleteHi Christina!
ReplyDeleteOh, yes, I've been there - 5 kids, a husband, a dog...4 of the kids were girls. At one time there were 4 teens in the house, then 3 in college at the same time...It's a tough gig, but my family always came first. It's just how I'm wired. The best thing I did was figure out what was most important and what gave me joy - (dusting blinds and cleaning sinks was not on the list.) I also stopped beating myself up because I didn't write as fast or as much as others or whatever...Did you ever read Max Ehrmann's 'Desiderata'? Very calming. I have it in my study- needed it lately.
I know I'm happiest when I'm writing - it's a great stress-reliever and makes me a better wife/mother/daughter/friend.
The kids will grow and won't need carpooling...then they can drive themselves and that's when you really won't sleep..and then comes college and the leaving...Oh, you don't want to hear about that:) Point is, there will always be stressors and it's okay to be less than perfect. Be kind to yourself. Oh, and don't get conned into doing all the volunteer stuff because you 'are at home'...:)
Merry Christmas! My chaos starts in less than 24 hours when the kids fly/drive in with significant others..even a dog....I can't wait!!
Mary
Wow, 5 kids. i struggle with 3 sometimes. Happy Holidays
DeleteI have three boys and a full time job that requires at home time as well. My day normally starts at 5:30 and ends at midnight. I get drained and sometimes frustrated as well. I do sacrifice cooking and order out and reduce house cleaning to weekends or late at night. I often some night get no sleep because I am trying to read or check over homework, work schedules, and other issues. I just count my blessings and enjoy the peace and smiles of my kids while my day unwind. I have two weeks with no child care and kids aging from 7-9 with a busy work training schedule and family time to add in. I just figured to bring them to work and hopefully they behave and enjoy their tablets which are under the tree.
ReplyDeleteI know it will get better once they are older and can help more but right now I thank heaven they are here.
Merry Christmas and just breath ♡♡♡
Yes, it sounds like you are very busy. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season with your family
DeleteHappy Birthday Amber,thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeletedragonkeep62@gmail.com
Yikes, that schedule would flatten me. Kudos to you for standing up under the pressure.
ReplyDeletedrainbamaged.gyzmo at gmail.com
PS: Didn't find a post about Amber Kallyn's birthday, so I hope it's ok to say I hope it's a happy one to her here.
Im an old Mom, so believe it or not...do enjoy this time while it lasts. Its flies by!
ReplyDeleteKassie aka "Mom"