By: Jessica Thompson
Updated: Feb. 24, 2023
Lately, I’ve been navigating one of those weeks where nothing seems to unfold as planned. Tasks remain incomplete, unexpected expenses accumulate — like my little one spilling juice on my laptop and the additional tooth that needs attention — and my entire family has been battling a persistent cold, leaving us all cranky and exhausted. While these challenges may not be catastrophic, they are enough to leave me feeling frazzled and overwhelmed.
In a moment of vulnerability, I reached out on social media to share, “I’m riding the struggle bus this week, and it’s only Tuesday.” I made it clear I wasn’t seeking solutions, just a sense of camaraderie. I knew I wasn’t alone; sometimes, simply knowing others are enduring similar challenges can alleviate the sense of isolation we often feel.
I didn’t feel the need to add a disclaimer about my love for my children because, of course, I adore them dearly. Experiencing a tough week or seeking support doesn’t diminish our love for our kids. It’s a testament to how deeply we feel for them—so deeply that it can feel overwhelming at times. It’s perfectly valid to acknowledge when life feels chaotic and we need to vent.
The Challenges of Motherhood
Motherhood inherently comes with its challenges; it’s a certainty that things will sometimes spiral out of control. There are instances when minor issues compound, pushing you to your limits, making you feel as if you’re on the brink of a breakdown. For instance, while I was frantically trying to dry my coffee-soaked keyboard with a blow dryer, my toddler decided to leap into a pile of laundry and ended up getting hurt. All the while, my baby clung to my leg wanting to nurse, and my older child proclaimed she wasn’t feeling well.
At that moment, I slammed down the hair dryer and, overwhelmed, I shouted into the chaos, “I just can’t do this right now!” And the truth was, I couldn’t. Today was not a day for me to juggle everything like a supermom. I couldn’t comfort my crying toddler, tend to my baby, assess my daughter’s symptoms, and simultaneously pray for my laptop’s recovery.
However, I couldn’t call in reinforcements, so I did what any mom would do: I triaged the situation. Even when we feel we can’t go on, we push through. I scooped up my baby and rushed to my toddler, who needed a hug and some ice for his shiner. I settled my oldest with a cold drink and a pile of picture books, and while nursing the baby, I let the tears flow — sometimes, you just need a good cry.
Later that evening, as I discussed the following day’s plans with my partner, we both paused when we heard the familiar patter of tiny feet on the hardwood floor. We exchanged smiles, knowing our “little nugget” would soon appear, wobbling toward us.
When he rounded the corner, arms raised in excitement, my heart swelled. I realized that these moments with him are fleeting. My earlier frustrations faded as I scooped him up and breathed in the sweet scent of his hair.
The Cycle of Motherhood
Motherhood has a way of breaking you down and building you back up, piece by piece, time and again. I would gladly replace a juice-stained laptop or endure more days of clingy toddlers if it means experiencing those precious moments of love.
That’s what mothers do: we persevere. We may break down, but we rise again, fueled by the love of our children. Each day, we wake up ready to tackle whatever comes our way, because there are always those little feet coming down the hallway, reminding us of our purpose.
Resources for Family Expansion
In times of need, for those exploring options for family expansion, check out this excellent resource on treating infertility. And if you’re considering home insemination, you might find our post on the artificial insemination kit helpful. Don’t forget to explore fun activities to do with your child, like these creative bubble bath activities.
Summary
Motherhood is a beautiful yet chaotic journey that often tests our limits. Despite the overwhelming moments and frustrations, the love we share with our children always finds a way to restore us. It’s a cycle of breaking down and rebuilding, fueled by the joy of those little moments.