As I move the knob up to “brew,” I sigh to myself. For some reason, brewing a second batch of coffee for the day feels like some form of failure.
When it occurs to me I’m feeling this way, I have to ask, why? When I was working, I wouldn’t think twice about needing an afternoon caffeine boost. So, why, when I’m brewing the coffee myself instead of purchasing it in a crisp, white paper cup, do I feel like I’ve failed?
Countless times lately, I’ve looked at my new life as a stay-at-home mom (for now, as I’m always compelled to say), and felt more than a little deficient. This is a much bigger transition than I ever thought it would be.
In many ways, all is wonderful. My baby is happy, healthy — positively cherubic. His rosy cheeks widen every time he looks at me, and my heart melts every time I look at him. I love — love — being able to be with him every day.
But many Friday afternoons, I find myself drained and I breathe that pre-weekend sigh of relief. Then I remember: there are no days off for the stay-at-home mom.
This is a job I treasure — granted, it’s also the hardest job I’ve ever had. But it’s a job I feel very, very lucky to have. So I had to probe a little deeper to find out why I frequently feel like I’m not the employee of the year.
Why was I always so much quicker to forgive myself when I worked for someone else than I am now, when I essentially work for myself?
(Maybe it’s because my boss is actually a 16-pound comedian who blows raspberries in my face when I bend over to wipe his ass.)
I think it must be because this is the most important job I’ve ever held. No matter how well I’m doing, I never feel like I’m doing well enough. There is always more laundry to be done; the dogs could always use more exercise; the floors of my house could be mopped clean of dog slobber and potato chip crumbs, if I were so inclined. Right now I’m using the precious time while my son is asleep to explore my feelings through my tip-tapping fingers instead of taking the shower I (badly) need.
The fact is, the job of a mom — whether staying at home or working outside the home — is never done. I look at my own mom and realize that, while she retired from her career last year, she’ll never be completely off work. She’ll never stop worrying about my sister and me; she’ll never stop calling us on holidays or making sure we’re as happy and healthy as we can be. I’ll bet each August and every June, when my sister and I celebrate our birthdays, she’s not thinking about birthday cake or candles. I’ll bet she still thinks about the day we were born.
I know I’ll do this each October 6 for the rest of my life.
Yes, there are days when this job feels more like a life sentence. Because that’s in fact what it is. A beautiful, heart-wrenching life sentence that started the day my son was born, and will probably (hopefully) not end until the day I die.
And there are days when I need a second batch of coffee just to get through the afternoon.
So be it.
(Is it too early for a glass of wine?)
The Bump Life 
Never too early for a glass of wine:) — I am young, but my mum is a single parent & I was raised by many strong mothers (who did it by themselves). I think being a stay at home mom is one of the hardest jobs you can have. Be easy on yourself, know that you are not perfect, this is your first time doing this! You are learning just like your baby is! My mum reminded me of that when I was younger, and it really put things in perspective. xoxo
Thanks for your kind words — and for stopping by!
Yes. Just…yes. I feel everything you say here.
I am a work-away-from-home mom who had functioned temporarily as a stay-at-home mom and both jobs essentially suck. I have blogged about it much. And cried. And whined. And bitched to anyone who would listen.
PARENTING IS HARD. My vagina should have come with a warning label that said that on it.
And, of course, to answer your question: It’s 5:00 somewhere…
Keep your head up! (’cause if you don’t, the children will TAKE OVER.)
What an awesome comment. “Both jobs essentially suck” — so true! I keep casually perusing the job boards (my form of therapy), but quickly ask myself “what are you doing?” and abandon the search. I’m happy to be home — but there are days … Thanks for reading!
Never ever too early for a glass of wine! It’s always wine o’clock in one time zone or another!!!
Agreed! Thanks for reading!
Stacey, I was a stay-at-home Mom with our 3 (in 26 months.) At times it was boring, but most of the time it was fun and very rewarding. The years will fly by so fast Stacey, Hudson will be asking for the car keys before you know it..:) You are doing a wonderful job, I raise up my glass of wine to you……………Judi
Thank you, Judi. Cheers!
Hi Stacey,
We preschool teachers are always recommending that parents of young children find ways to take care of themselves as well as the house and kids–not easy to do. I think one of the best things that you do for yourself and your readers is to keep writing! We all benefit.
Love, Stephanie
Stephanie, what a beautiful thing to say. Your advice has been spot-on for many mothers over the years, I’m sure. Thank you!
Stacy, You really are a writer! I love your thoughtful blog! Hudson is fortunate to have such a great mom!! Mommy Jan
Thank you, Jan! Your kind words mean so much!
Very well put! I totally agree.
Hi! Stopping by from MBC. Great blog!
Have a nice day!
Glad to have you! Thanks for reading.
Love this post! I’m also much harder on myself than any boss ever was. Cheers! 🙂
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I love your blog! you were forwarded to me through a friend. i am right there with you and it feels so good to know that we’re not alone! feel free to visit my site. i’d love to have you!