How Life Has Changed Since Becoming a School Mom {Or Not}

September 4th, 2014

We are into our 4th week of school and one of the biggest adjustments of our lives, and Brad and I are still pinching ourselves over how well smoothly it’s running.  No tears, no complaints, no reluctance – is this just honeymoon newbie school phase still? 

People keep stopping to ask me what I’m doing with ALL my “free time”. 

I have to hold back my chuckle, because I think they are picturing me laying out by the pool, magazine in hand, dosing off, and aimlessly waiting until it’s time to go line up in the car pick-up line. It’s as if all of my responsibilities vanished with the school enrollment.

Not. So. Much.

So what looks the same and what looks different?  Here’s a little of what I’ve experienced these past few weeks…

• There is a measure of quiet that I haven’t experienced in 7 years. It’s eerie but refreshing at the same time. 
• I still cannot get on top of my laundry. I do laundry {nearly} daily and just never get caught up.  I’ve resigned to it being my lot in life.
• I’ve packed 72 lunches so far.  So glad I have a cheat-sheet when I’m all out of ideas.
• We’re up and at ’em much earlier.  Out the door by 7:50 is getting us to bed earlier and the morning routine has been a good change rather than a dreaded one so far.
• I’ve had several lunch dates/business meetings with Brad.  I’m thankful for the opportunity to be more involved with his business and I’m so excited for his newly launched Whirl Sites. They’ve knocked it out of the park with this one!  Check it out and pass it along to those you might know who need an affordable web solution with most of the advantages of a custom-built site!
• I still cannot stock my pantry and fridge with enough food. The dudes are always hungry.
• I’ve been able to dedicate more time to my Young Living biz.  It’s growing like wildfire, y’all.  So thankful for not only the paycheck that is an absolute bonus and provision, but for the opportunity to invest in others and help them find answers for all sorts of health issues from the minor to the major. People who I’ve introduced to essential oils are off allergy meds, migraine meds, sleeping better, getting relief from anxiety, and boosting their family’s immunity.  I’m just floored that I get to have a small part in it!
• Life has been less survival mode, and more doggie paddling over sinking.
•  I’ve been able to pursue relationships better, something that I have lacked balance in the last few years.
•  I still haven’t “caught up”.  My closets need cleaned out, my house needs dusted, my fridge needs cleaned, etc.  I thought the cleaning fairy would come over to keep me company, but she’s a no-show.
• I’m not all put together. I feel accomplished when we all get to school with 4 backpacks, 4 lunches, 4 signed assignment notebooks, and 4 homework folders in the van and into the school parking lot on time. Perfect hair, makeup, and fashion to go with this circus just aren’t realistic or a priority.
• I’ve learned the lesson of not buying shoes at a box store.  New brand name shoes ripping apart in 2 weeks is not acceptable in this mom’s book.
•  I actually LOVE the car pick up line.  Don’t throw anything at your computer. No really, put down that coffee mug you are starting to chuck.  I know it’s newbie school mom love, but it’s a time that no one is demanding anything from me that I can guiltlessly check Facebook or read a few pages on my Kindle that survived the bathtub swimming session!
• Time still flies.  I mean honestly, how is it 3:30 soooooo fast? I thought the days would be long, but turns out they fly by just as quickly.
• I miss them. It’s not a emptiness/sadness/loss feeling like I anticipated, but it’s still bizarre  having hours without them when I’ve been with them since their exit from the NICU.

All that said I think we’re adjusting and finding a new rhythm.  It’s certainly not perfect and there are things we miss about our homeschool lifestyle, but overall it’s been a really good fit for all of us.  Thanks for supporting us and cheering us on as we continue to figure out what’s best for our boys.