Updated: April 19, 2023
Originally Published: April 19, 2023
We all know that parenting can be exhausting. Have you ever noticed how different you feel by the afternoon? It’s like I wake up full of energy and great intentions, but by the time the clock strikes 2 p.m., I’m barely keeping it together. I strive to be the best parent possible, but my parenting game seems to dip significantly after lunch.
Morning Mom:
Envisions a day packed with enriching activities. A sensory play area? A stroll through the local botanical garden? Volunteering at a food pantry? Baby yoga, perhaps? Oh, and an exciting culinary journey with fun facts about various cultures. How enlightening!
Afternoon Mom:
Well, does a bowl of enriched cereal count?
Morning Mom:
Is patient and understanding during diaper changes, even when her little one is squirming and fussing. She sees his tears as a natural expression of vulnerability and reassures him, “It’s okay, sweetie. Mommy’s just changing your diaper because I love you.”
Afternoon Mom:
Takes a quick glance and thinks, “Yeah, you smell fine. Keep gnawing on that lamp cord. I’m just checking the clock to see if it’s too early for a glass of wine.”
Morning Mom:
Keeps everything on a strict schedule. Baby’s napping? Time to tidy up, wash bottles, shower, and whip up some homemade baby food! If there’s still time, she might even fit in a quick workout!
Afternoon Mom:
Is sitting on the edge of her bed, watching the monitor as her precious decor gets shredded by the baby. She’s whisper-yelling, “Please go to sleep!” while trying to maintain her sanity.
Morning Mom:
Lives by the motto, “Look good, feel good.” She styles her hair into a chic messy bun, applies some foundation, and puts on her favorite athleisure outfit. She even manages to accessorize! Who cares about thigh gaps when she’s rocking her new teething jewelry?
Afternoon Mom:
Has a bun that’s sagged into a lopsided mess by lunchtime. Crushed Cheerios stick to her feet as she enters the nursery for another diaper change. In the chaos, she swipes some organic butt balm on her lips. When Grandma calls for a FaceTime chat, she answers while lifting the baby from the changing table, saying, “What’s up? I put on makeup this morning.”
Morning Mom:
Tracks developmental milestones obsessively and plans the day’s activities around them. She emails her partner, “Honey, he’s not waving yet. We may need to consult the pediatrician. Here are some articles on encouraging waving!”
Afternoon Mom:
Just wants to escape the house for a walk. And what do you know? She bumps into that one girl from high school who’s surprised to see her. Good job, kid—no fake waves here!
We all love our kids and want to give them the best, but mornings brim with hope and potential, while afternoons often bring fatigue and frustration. By 2 p.m., I transform into Afternoon Mom—the less cheerful, less put-together version of my morning self. Maybe we should consider launching a new supportive community for Afternoon Moms—rested moms by 2 p.m. might just be what we need.
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Summary:
This lighthearted comparison between Morning Mom and Afternoon Mom highlights the stark contrast in energy and motivation that many parents experience throughout the day. While Morning Mom is organized, patient, and full of ideas, Afternoon Mom often finds herself worn out and just trying to survive. The article offers a relatable snapshot of parenting realities, encouraging a sense of solidarity among parents.