Parenting is no easy feat. From navigating pregnancy to dealing with morning sickness, weight gain, and the challenges of labor, it can feel like a marathon that never ends. But the real adventure begins once that baby arrives. Suddenly, you’re tasked with feeding, bathing, and caring for a tiny human, and it often feels like you need extra limbs just to keep pace.
And then they start talking. Sure, those heartfelt “I love yous” are precious, but let’s be real: it’s the sassy comebacks from your first grader that will really test your patience, especially when they start passing on their cheekiness to your toddler. As we try to navigate this chaotic world of parenting, we often find ourselves making excuses to justify our children’s less-than-stellar behavior. Here are some of the more common justifications I’ve used over the years, all in the name of saving face—for both my child and myself.
- “He’s Just Tired.” Yet he refuses to close his eyes. Meanwhile, I’m the one who could use a nap—anyone want to trade?
- “He Just Woke Up.” Sure, from a three-hour nap, and if I had that kind of sleep, I’d be ready to conquer the world!
- “He’s Going Through a Phase.” I dared to say “no” a few too many times today, and now I’m paying the price for it.
- “He’s Hungry.” He’s demanding candy for dinner and is sulking because I’m standing my ground. But I might just give in…maybe.
- “He’s Had a Tough Day.” He’s been fed breakfast in bed, played with a cardboard box, and had a three-hour nap—all while watching his favorite shows. Rough day, right?
- “He Had a Rough Night.” He started in his own bed but ended up in mine, where he kicked and slapped me like it was some kind of wrestling match. Tough night for him, but I’m just peachy.
- “I Think He’s Getting Sick.” I’m baffled by his wild behavior, but since he has a runny nose from his last tantrum, let’s say he’s coming down with something.
- “He Just Got Over Something.” After nursing him back to health for two days, including sleepless nights and sneezes, he’s cranky. But I’m totally fine, thanks for asking!
- “Ah, The Terrible Twos.” The term is misleading, considering the chaos started way before he hit two.
- “Terrible Threes, Right?” I’m at a loss for why my child is acting like a mini tornado, but I can assure you it’s not because he’s spoiled.
The irony is that it supposedly gets easier. I’ve been reassured by other parents that “it’s normal” and that I’ll someday “miss these days.” Someday, I won’t have to fabricate excuses and spin tales about why my child seems like the most entitled little monster. Perhaps it’s all just a performance. Or maybe he’s destined to be the next big star! If that’s the case, I’m ready for the big bucks!
If you’re also navigating the trials of motherhood and looking for insights on home insemination, check out Make A Mom for helpful resources. For those exploring fertility options, Intracervical Insemination offers valuable information. And for a deeper understanding of the science behind it, Genetics and IVF Institute is an excellent resource.
In summary, parenting is filled with challenges and moments where we find ourselves making excuses for our children’s antics. While it can be exhausting to navigate these phases, it’s all part of the journey.