This morning I turned to Instagram and shared a vulnerable post.
The past few weeks have been overwhelming. My husband is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, which classifies him as an essential worker. Due to COVID-19, he has been working extremely long shifts and getting home in the late evening. Don’t even get me started on the necessary extra precautions we have to take for him to not contract the virus, and God forbid bring it into our home. Naturally, since he is at work being a superhero, I stay home to care for the kids, keep our home in order, and *gasp* try to get work done. In short, I have no time for myself. This my friends is what you call a recipe for disaster! Growing tired of only being able to wear my mom hat each day, I knew something had to be done.
While a bit hesitant to share my struggle, I knew there are other Mamas in the world who currently share this very same sentiment. For those that missed the Insta post, please read below:
“Last night I reached my breaking point. While sitting next to my husband it all came pouring out. As usual, he was there to catch it all.
I explained to him how lately I have been struggling to set aside time for ME. I ran down the daily endless tasks consisting of caring for the kids and our home, being thrown into homeschool teacher life, and running my business. I explained how each day is gone in a flash. I expressed that while I continue to pour into others, I wasn’t pouring into MYSELF. My staple Starbucks work sessions are no longer, due to the stay at home order. My cozy home office has turned into a shared space with Landon to do online school work. Like many, my “normal” is nonexistent.
After Andrew and I worked through my feelings and brainstormed ideas, we concluded the best time to set aside for myself was early mornings. Y’all, I am NOT a morning person. But, the struggle has been too real and for my sanity somethings gotta give! With that, I have committed to now waking up at 5:30am each day. At that hour the house is calm and silent, and I can enjoy my coffee while watching the sunrise – signaling the start of the new day. I can pray, journal, and get some work done.
This morning I woke up so excited to hit the alarm. I sprung out of bed with the biggest smile! I was able to get SO MUCH DONE (including a Starbucks run, yay!)!! I’ve learned that it’s okay to pause and take a moment. It’s okay to reset your daily plan. It’s okay to ask for help! I desperately needed to follow one of my favorite scriptures and “Be Still”. (Psalm 46:10) We will get through these crazy times friends, just take it one day at a time.💕 (📷: hubbs @fitphilatre) .”
@CaitlynandCompany/Instagram
I had to write that not only for myself, but for other Mamas out there trying to find their way to a new normal. Trying to navigate these unsettling times. Tying to find more than just a few precious moments in the day to call her own. Ladies, I beg you, make it a point to set aside a time just for you. If that means you have to lock yourself in the bathroom for 1 hour to enjoy a bath – then do it! This is the time to be selfish!! Also know, it is okay to not be okay. If you find yourself struggling, speak to a loved one, a friend, or write your feelings down in a journal. Heck, email me! I am always here to support a fellow Mama get through these tough times.
All the hugs!
