Recently, my spouse scored an amazing job opportunity that allows them to work from home. Initially, we were thrilled at the thought of bidding farewell to that dreaded commute! Just imagine—more family time in the mornings, leisurely evenings, and even the prospect of Family Lunch Hour. For a fleeting moment, it all seemed ideal. But as a stay-at-home parent juggling three energetic kids, I quickly realized that a “Home Office” setup might not be feasible for our family dynamics.
Need to make a phone call, hun? Good luck with that.
A significant part of my partner’s role requires them to be on the phone with clients. Trying to have a phone conversation while kids are around? Nearly impossible. Trust me, I’ve tried it. The sound of a ringing phone acts like a trigger for my children, sparking an immediate and desperate demand for attention and snacks. And let’s face it, kids are loud—especially when there’s a trio of them. We’d either need to soundproof a room or somehow instill a sense of quiet respect in our little ones—neither option is likely to happen anytime soon.
Sorry, kiddos, Daddy can’t play right now.
My partner is the ultimate Fun Parent. When they come home, they become the Sword Fighter, the Body-Slamming Wrestler, the Tiara-Wearing Tea Party Guest, the Wiffle Ball Pitcher, and the Fort Builder. Sure, I partake in those activities too, but there’s something special about Dad leading the charge. I mean, I did bring you into this world, dear children, but somehow it’s just better with Dad around. If my partner worked from home, I’d have to devote my entire day to keeping the kids from barging into their workspace.
No, they can’t just “watch the kids for a minute.”
There have been countless occasions as a parent of small children when the thought of running a simple errand has nearly brought me to tears. I’m not even talking about the big ones—those Target runs or grocery shopping trips. No, I’m referring to those quick, in-and-out errands that you used to accomplish effortlessly. Now, with kids, diapers, car seats, snacks, and potty breaks (as in, “Everyone, let’s try to go potty before we leave!”), even a trip to the post office or pharmacy can take an hour. An HOUR.
If my partner worked from home, “Hey, I need to drop this package in the mail. You good with the kids? Awesome! I’ll be back in ten!” would become a common refrain, and I can already picture myself abusing that newfound freedom. Wow, I was in and out in three minutes! I’ve got time to swing by this coffee shop. Oh, look! There’s Lucy! I haven’t seen her in forever! Sure, Lucy, let’s catch up over these steaming vanilla lattes!
And no, they can’t run out and grab you a latte.
What’s the point of having two adults home all day if one of them can’t step away to grab coffee for the team? There isn’t one.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Yes, I’m often exhausted by the time my partner returns home in the evening. It’s been a long, draining day meeting the physical, emotional, and social needs of our three lively kiddos. I’ve poured everything into them, sometimes neglecting my own basic needs, like eating or even using the restroom. I might reach the point of losing my patience and sanity, screaming, “EVERYONE JUST STOP TOUCHING ME!” Or maybe I’ve managed to keep it together. Who knows?
But my partner has also had a long day at work. They’ve been grinding away and are tired too.
There’s nothing sweeter than greeting my partner at the door with a cold drink in one hand and a toddler on my hip. I give them a quick kiss and pass off the cranky one who’s been glued to me since waking from their brief nap. “Good luck!” I call out as I head to the porch for some much-needed peace. “The boys are in timeout and she’s a handful. I’ll be outside!”
My 5 p.m. Daddy’s Home! Alone Time is sacred, so sorry love, you can’t work at the office, but you definitely can’t work here.
For more insights on parenting and home dynamics, check out this related post on Cervical Insemination. Also, if you’re interested in at-home insemination kits, consider visiting Cryobaby, a reputable retailer. Furthermore, if you’re looking for valuable information on what to expect with home insemination, Parents has excellent resources available.
In summary, while working from home might sound appealing, the reality often tells a different story. For our family, keeping work and home life separate is essential to maintaining a peaceful and functional household.
Leave a Reply