As the clock strikes four in the afternoon, I’m officially out of steam when it comes to parenting. I yearn for a meal I don’t have to prepare, a glass (or three) of wine, and a cozy bed; add some chocolate, and I’m living the ultimate mom fantasy. By this time of day, my parenting skills plummet to an all-time low. If you’re one of those supermoms who manages to keep it together after 4 p.m., I need to know your secret. Here are ten things I simply can’t handle:
- Fielding Endless Questions
Kids are like curious little sponges, soaking up everything all day long. But come late afternoon, my brain feels like it’s on autopilot. Their questions become increasingly complex, and I’m ready to pay someone to make it stop. Perhaps I should just tape a sign to my forehead: “Questions are a no-go after 4 p.m.” Also, can I get some earplugs over here? - Realizing the Bake Sale Is Tomorrow
Nothing is worse than forgetting you committed to bake for a school event. Whether you signed up yourself or someone else volunteered you without your knowledge, discovering you need to whip up three dozen cookies at the last minute is a nightmare. And don’t forget dinner! - Hearing My Partner Will Be Late
After a long day, I’m counting the minutes until my partner walks through the door. The last thing I want to hear is that they’ll be late, especially when all I want is a moment of peace… and maybe a bathroom break. - Running Out of Caffeine
I could have sworn there was some coffee left in the house, but alas, it’s gone. Now, I’m left debating whether a trip to the drive-thru is worth it—especially after waiting forever for the kids to get ready. At this point, I might as well just serve them nuggets and fries for dinner. - Facing the Mess
After cleaning up breakfast, lunch, and countless other messes throughout the day, my energy for tidying up has vanished. It’s that time when letting the kids zone out in front of a screen feels like a perfectly acceptable solution. - Tattling
I’ve already put out enough fires today, and I simply can’t deal with more drama. Kids, work it out yourselves; I’m off the clock when it comes to being the referee. - Dealing with a Whiny Child
At this point in the day, additional whining makes me want to pull my hair out. Morning whining? A bit bearable. But now? Not so much. Whining is only acceptable if it involves adult beverages. - Making Dinner
Especially when the chicken you planned to cook is either spoiled or still frozen. Takeout sounds tempting, but we just did that, so hot dogs it is. I promise to do better tomorrow. - My Partner Locking Themselves in the Bathroom
I totally get the need for some personal time after a long day, but seriously? Moms don’t get that luxury. While they’re relaxing, we’re juggling a million things. - Realizing I Have a Meeting Tonight
Just when I think I can relax, I remember there’s a meeting I need to attend. As I glance at the calendar, I’m left wondering if I should change out of my stained yoga pants or just embrace the chaos.
By 4 p.m., we’re often running on empty, but somehow we push through until bedtime. In those quiet moments, watching our little ones sleep, we find the energy to tackle another day—until the clock strikes four again.
For more insights into motherhood and parenting, check out our other posts about home insemination kits for those on a journey to become parents, and for further reading on pregnancy, visit March of Dimes. If you’re navigating the tough experiences of pregnancy loss, you can find support from experts at Love and Loss: One Mother’s Journey Through Stillbirth.