When I embraced motherhood, I envisioned the typical tasks associated with caring for a baby: diaper changes, breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, and preparing healthy, appetizing meals. However, I quickly learned that countless other tasks come with the territory of parenting. Here are seven unexpected roles I’ve taken on as a mother.
1. Hazardous Materials Specialist
Before I became a parent, I’d seen commercials for laundry detergent like everyone else. Little did I know that the term “protein stain” is a secret code for mothers, indicating which detergents can tackle even the most revolting messes. I’ve also become quite skilled at cleaning vomit off walls at all hours of the night.
2. Chief Archivist
Organization has never been my strong suit. I’ve always struggled with sorting paperwork and often leave bills in piles until I’m inundated with reminders. The sheer volume of my children’s artwork and keepsakes can be overwhelming. Each day, I find myself deliberating whether to keep that scribbled drawing or the notebook detailing my first child’s diaper schedule from five years ago.
3. Flight Attendant
This role mostly involves buckling my kids into their seats and getting yanked out of mine repeatedly to quench the thirst of a cranky child who might have had one too many sugary drinks. I’ve mastered the art of appearing cheerful even when I’m boiling inside.
4. Water Bottle Researcher/Tester
Over the past five years, I’ve spent a staggering $923 on sippy cups and water bottles. At this point, I’ve accepted that I’ll never find a bottle that doesn’t leak, is easy for my child to open, and doesn’t develop mold in its straws.
5. Social Coordinator
Growing up in the free-range era of the 70s and 80s, my mother hardly knew my friends’ names until I reached adulthood. If I wanted to play with a friend, I simply walked or biked to their house. Now, I manage an extensive network of moms, playdates, and extracurricular activities, making my calendar look like the ramblings of someone attempting to decipher the electoral college.
6. Clutter Control Specialist
This role complements my duties as Chief Archivist. Living in a small apartment with my husband and kids means I must regularly declutter. I’m pretty ruthless with discarded toys, worn-out books, and art projects from years past, often sorting through bags of items for trash or donation.
7. Wardrobe Manager
For those who maintain a pristine and organized closet, seasonal wardrobe changes are a twice-yearly event. I, on the other hand, prefer to keep my summer and winter clothes mixed together. However, with kids, every spring and fall involves a day dedicated to sorting out outgrown clothing, finding what can be stored for future use, and preparing for the next child’s needs.
Being a mother has become synonymous with juggling these various roles, and I find enjoyment in most of them. Surprisingly, I’ve grown more organized and capable since becoming a parent. Plus, I’ve become quite the expert at tackling those pesky protein stains.
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In conclusion, the journey of motherhood involves a range of unexpected responsibilities that contribute to a fulfilling and dynamic experience.