I’m utterly exhausted! Let’s be honest: parenting is a draining experience.
I wake up at 2 a.m. feeling like I’m in a sauna, not in a glamorous way but rather sweaty and wide awake. While my partner is cozy beneath layers of blankets, I’m left to crank up the A/C to frigid levels, so cold it could freeze my son’s bathroom dash at 6 a.m.
I’m tired of waking up at 6 a.m. with aches and pains, especially when I hear my son’s enthusiastic morning routine, which feels like a fire hose. My neck is in a constant state of discomfort; I can’t seem to find a pillow that doesn’t turn against me. I often joke that I’ll only find relief when the kids move out, but I also have to acknowledge the “mom pain” I get from my own mother’s advice during her visits. Thankfully, yoga offers a glimmer of relief—if only I could find the time to practice.
I’m also weary of helicopter parenting. I’m all for “detached parenting.” Sure, I plan family activities, but I’m not going to be the one playing Four Square every single time. “Get creative, you’re lucky to have siblings to play with!” I remind my kids. “Now go outside and play before I lock you out!” It’s my way of hoping for a moment of peace.
The screen time battle is another exhausting aspect of parenting. I want my kids to understand that it’s perfectly fine to be bored or to enjoy the outdoors instead of being glued to screens. And about phones—why the rush to get an iPhone before high school? Bill Gates didn’t let his kids have one until they were 14. The flip phone you’ll get in middle school is “Flipping Awesome” and serves all your talk and text needs without falling into addiction before you establish healthy boundaries. So, enjoy being “retro”—it’s actually cool again!
Marriage, especially with four kids, feels like another job. Our pictures look less like lovebirds and more like two worn-out parents. Resilience defines our relationship after 23 years. We’ve learned to embrace technology; it keeps the kids occupied long enough for us to sneak away for a date. Irony at its finest!
Being told I’m too sensitive is another thing I’m tired of. It’s my superpower, allowing me to feel deeply. But at 2 a.m., when I’m tossing and turning and solving global issues in my head, it feels like a heavy burden.
Speaking of heavy burdens, I’m fed up with the news. The reality and sensationalism are exhausting. School lockdowns due to gun threats make me uneasy. I’m tired of having to discuss gun safety measures before allowing my child to visit a friend’s house. The rising cost of college is distressing, and I tire of arguing that all lives matter while peaceful protesters face off against armed guards. I worry about climate change and wonder if my grandchildren will have a livable planet.
It’s no surprise that I lie awake at night, feeling restless while my family sleeps peacefully. I want my children to surround themselves with positive influences. There’s no rest for the weary when it feels like peace and tolerance are merely slogans.
Oh, and hormonal swings? Don’t get me started. I’m tired of their unpredictable nature at my age.
Today, I pushed my body to run faster than I thought possible. Maybe it was the escape into my thoughts that helped me discover the silver lining in my life—my health, my family. The positive endorphins flooded in as the sun warmed my face. I’ve earned this exhaustion, and I have no regrets! I’ll have plenty of time to nap once my children are out of the house.
As I hit the trail, my worries eased—at least until 2 a.m. again. I felt reenergized and ready to tackle another day of parenting. “Kids, let’s hit the pool for some family fun!” I enthusiastically declared as they begrudgingly put down their devices.
To all the parents out there, know you’re not alone in your fatigue. I honestly don’t know how I found the strength to write this. You can bet my family will be bundled up tonight!
For more insights on home insemination, check out this guide on artificial insemination kits. If you’re exploring fertility options, this fertility booster for men is a reliable resource. And for anyone considering IUI, what to expect during your first procedure is an excellent read.
In summary, parenting is a demanding journey filled with challenges, sleepless nights, and moments of joy. It’s a balancing act of responsibilities, emotions, and finding time for self-care, all while striving to nurture a loving family environment.
Leave a Reply