So often as a homeschool mom I hear those around me worry that my children aren’t being socialized enough. Even though I know I shouldn’t let it bother me (because honestly have you met my children?!), sometimes I find myself trying to cram in as much socialization as possible. This usually always leaves us completely burned out in the end. This week was one of those weeks, and I was really pushed to the limit
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This week I somehow managed to cram in a birthday party, 4H project, play date, and a field trip all within a 3 day period. Plus I had to cook, clean, grocery shop, work on my blog, shop for Halloween costumes, and oh yeah – school work! To top it all off, as if that wasn’t enough life happening, my husband has been battling some health issues, so I’ve had the added stress from that as well.
What was the result of my crazy over-scheduling? Chaos, exhaustion, anxiety, and illness to name a few. Not just for me, but for my girls as well!
My house was completely upside-down and I was completely out of my routines. When I’m surrounded by messes and not on schedule, my anxiety goes through the roof! I was having anxiety attacks, staring off into space, and I couldn’t make it through a trip to the grocery store without breaking down into tears while in the car. I was just so tired.
My kids were affected by it all too. My 4 year old was so tired I could barely pull her out of bed in the morning, which is rare considering the kid is usually the first to get up around here. Then two nights ago she came down with a cold and fever and kept us up all night long. Seriously, she is the WORST when she is sick! She wakes up at least once an hour if not more in screaming fits because she’s so tired and so miserable, yet she has no idea what’s wrong so you can’t get her to calm down. Today my 8 year old is complaining she’s getting sick too, so I guess it’s only a matter of time before we’ve all got it now.
Can you see where I got the name for my blog?
On Thursday we were supposed to go to an American Heritage Girls meeting, but I finally had to throw up my hands and say enough is enough! I just couldn’t do it! We couldn’t do it. So, we stayed home, and even though it felt glorious to stay home, I still had that lingering feeling of guilt because what if they’re missing out?
Despite all of the crazy, we still had a productive week and got plenty of school work accomplished even though most of it was out of the home or in the car. I will still definitely call that an overall win.
Next week we have family coming in from out of town to visit. Let’s see if I can still remember this lesson when life gets crazy all over again!
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Yes, sometimes life just runs you ragged. Thankfully over the years I have learned it’s okay to say, NO.
Yes! Something I need to work on too! Thanks for commenting Nikki 😀
Loved this post. I can totally relate to you. And Jen your children are not missing out on anything. You do not need to take them to tones of events for them to be socialized. I used to have my children in every activity available a couple of years ago and I was so tired. I know what you are talking about : the house was a mess. I do not do so well when my house is a mess. Thank you for being so honest. Will be sharing this on google + and Facebook. Be blessed. 🙂
Hi Irina! Thanks for your sweet comment and thank you for sharing! I know at the end of the week I sit down and think “Why did I do that to myself?!” lol so it’s definitely a work in progress. I’m learning that its okay to say no more!
Guilty as charged! I was that “over-scheduled” mom. Until this school year, when I’ve intentionally NOT committed to any “long-term” clubs, meetings, etc. Yes, we go on a field trip, play date, etc. But when it WORKS and not on a “set” day each week or month. Amazing how many “once a month” clubs you can join and find yourself busy 2-3 days PER WEEK… but each club only meets “once a month”. UGH! Been there, done that!
its so true! It’s crazy how fast you can go from nothing to do, to pulling your hair out because you’re so overdone! I told my kids just yesterday, “The next two weeks we’re staying HOME. Don’t even ask to go anywhere!” Ha!