As summer wraps up and fall approaches, I can’t help but feel that familiar excitement. The countdown begins: time to stock up on fresh supplies for the kids! Here’s some new underwear, kids! Don’t forget those pencils!
Inside, I’m doing a little happy dance, because September is here. The chaos of “Mom Camp” is over, and I can finally breathe.
I dream about organizing my pantry, clearing off my desk so I can see the surface again, and finally turning those five years’ worth of photos into beautiful albums. I picture myself getting back into shape, decluttering the minivan, and even crafting a quilt from my children’s old t-shirts. I plan to volunteer at their school, sign up as a substitute teacher, and help out at the local soup kitchen. I will be nothing short of spectacular!
Yet, I can’t help but wonder if my past self would be disappointed. The ambitious, college-educated version of me definitely didn’t anticipate the reality of being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM). I aim to be the ultimate Super Mom, overflowing with productivity and creativity.
When September arrives, I envision endless hours of free time, ripe for the picking. I’ll read books, maybe even pen one of my own!
But, as the days fly by, the reality hits. Between tidying the kitchen, jogging around the block, doing laundry, and running errands, I find myself back at school pick-up time before I know it. And just like that, October rolls around, and I can’t shake the feeling of disappointment.
September feels like a fresh start—much like New Year’s Day—filled with hope and grand expectations. Last year, when my youngest started kindergarten, I set lofty goals: run a marathon, write a book, tackle every closet in the house. All seemed very achievable at the time.
Fast forward a year, and those closets are just as cluttered as before. There’s no marathon medal hanging on my wall, no book on the shelf with my name on it. It’s as if I’ve vanished into thin air.
So here’s my advice: Let it go.
Forget about the grand plans of writing books and running marathons. You might manage one or two of those aspirations if you caffeinate enough—but let’s be real, there’s still laundry to do, dishes to wash, homework to check, and minivans to drive. Being a SAHM is a legitimate full-time job in itself.
Before you dive into your September resolutions, consider these more manageable goals:
- Take a deep breath. You deserve it.
- Acknowledge every load of laundry folded, every dinner made, and every school run completed. You’re doing great!
- Take a moment for yourself—your soul is probably hiding next to the washing machine.
- Remember that 1993 version of you had no clue what was ahead.
- Exercise patience. This parenting phase flies by, and soon you’ll have time for other pursuits.
- Know that you are enough, just as you are.
For additional insights on managing this journey, check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination. And if you want to explore more about self-insemination techniques, don’t miss this article. For those interested in at-home tools, this guide provides expert advice.
Summary:
Embrace a realistic approach to September resolutions as a stay-at-home mom. Focus on achievable goals, practice self-compassion, and remember that this phase of life is fleeting. Celebrate the small victories and let go of unattainable expectations.