Lately, I’ve been joking with friends that my kids have transformed into little wildlings. In many ways, it’s true. Our mornings start with breakfast and a structured school routine that includes learning new subjects, practicing skills, and independent study. We carve out time for reading, each retreating to our rooms for some quiet enjoyment. We’re still figuring out how to weave in our spiritual practices.
After lunch, though, the structure of our day begins to unravel. Living in the South, the weather has been absolutely delightful. We haven’t yet hit the oppressive heat or humidity, and thankfully, the mosquitoes are still keeping their distance. It’s sunny and breezy—an ideal backdrop for outdoor escapades.
For the past few afternoons, my kids have been out in the yard, fully immersed in their adventures. They’re creating art with sidewalk chalk, inventing games with swings and ropes from our oak tree, or experimenting with skateboards on the natural slopes of our property. My son is often found dismantling gadgets to uncover their secrets—a vintage computer from our early marriage has become a hands-on STEM project.
Whether they’re racing down the street, exploring the bushes for snakes, or building impressive forts from the wood pile, their joy is palpable. I can see it in their muddy, bare feet that this freedom is what their busy childhood truly needed. The wildness is soothing, almost therapeutic.
But for us adults, it can be challenging. The unpredictability can stir anxiety, and the lack of routine might drive anyone a little mad. So, what helps? Getting dressed. It may be an unpopular opinion, but it’s surprisingly effective. Despite the chaos of our lives, I cling to the idea that morning, noon, and night still exist, creating a semblance of normalcy that I’m not willing to let go of.
We’ve all seen the memes about wearing pajamas all day or the jokes about those wearing jeans during quarantine—what do we have to prove? I have nothing to prove, but I have plenty to protect. Getting dressed every day helps me maintain my balance. I’ve often said that no matter what you’re facing, life is a little more manageable with a touch of lip gloss. You may not use lip gloss, but we all have our own “thing.”
Dressing up helps preserve the natural flow of time throughout the day, acting as a signal of transition that we so desperately need right now. It reassures my children that, while our lives may have shifted dramatically, their mother remains grounded. Even in moments of panic, I strive to be a steady presence for my kids, which is vital during uncertain times. I can’t imagine navigating these challenges in pajamas at 1:30 PM; it wouldn’t send a positive message.
Getting dressed keeps me anchored in the reality we all long for. It serves as a reminder that we will return to the lives we once cherished. After all, even though I’m at home all day, I’m also wearing many hats: teacher, lunch lady, disciplinarian, and PTA president. It would be quite odd to announce a school fundraiser in the same clothes I wore to bed.
In summary, while it may seem trivial, getting dressed can play a pivotal role in maintaining a sense of normalcy during chaotic times. It’s a small act that holds the power to transform our daily routines and keep us connected to a more structured reality. For more insights on navigating life’s changes, check out some of our other blog posts on home insemination and family planning.
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