Do you ever have those days where you’d just like to sink into bed, pull the covers over your head and hide?
I’m having one now. I just got rejected from a literary agent. This was it, my chance to obtain representation, but with one swift e-mail I was barred from hope. Now I’m pouting.
My kids are in the next room and I need to go play with them, and then get dinner started. And I will. But sometimes it’s just plain tough to be a parent.
So what do you do when it gets tough? What do you do when you need to spend time with your kids for their sake, but when the other stresses of life take your thoughts away from them, if briefly?
If your kids are small, how about coloring? It’s easy and allows them to be creative while you stand back and give praise. They get to be “with” you while you can still think your thoughts and ponder what needs pondering.
Heading to the playground is another option. Seriously, a little fresh air never hurt anyone. Get out of the house. You’ll both feel better. A bit of sunshine has a way of helping everything.
If your kids are older, it’s okay to admit you’re having a bad day or a bad moment. Maybe you can just sit together and watch a TV show. I know I know, television is taboo, but it’s also a realistic part of life. Or pop on a movie. There’s got to be SOMETHING you can agree upon.
When things get really tough, take a mommy time-out. Kids understand more than we give them credit for. Even moms need a time-out now and then, a moment to collect ourselves and get it together again. Don’t be afraid to let your kids know you just need a minute and you’ll be back.
It takes work to be the mom your kids need. No one is perfect, and not all days go according to plan. If you’ve recently had a disappointment like me, don’t let it ruin the day. Do the best you can and forgive yourself if you’re not perfect.