SAHM

So far today I've gotten the little kids up, dressed and fed, took DS #4  to "school" (which is a big task, let me tell you!), cleaned the kitchen, did 3 loads of laundry, scrubbed the kitchen floor, cleaned the bathtub, changed my sheets, fed the kids lunch, swept the steps and entryway, vacuumed, took big kids to the pool, put hilites in my hair (currently processing) and, of course, played with the kids - and it's not even 5. Why did list everything I did today? Well, I think it's the stay-at-home mom syndrome: feeling somewhat inferior to those who have "real jobs" and seeking validation for the work we do at home. When you work outside the home you have responsibilities and expectations for which you receive monetary compensation for when completed. What do we get for all the effort we put in at home? Usually not much. Moms and the work we do is one of the most under-appreciated things I can think of. I often feel the need to point out certain tasks I completed throughout the day to my husband when he gets home from work, I suppose so he knows that I didn't just sit and watch soap operas all day! Sure, there is down time (obviously, or I wouldn't have time to do this!), but we shouldn't feel guilty for taking 5-10 minutes here and there for ourselves. In fact, if I was working I would probably be guaranteed at least 60 minutes throughout the workday to do whatever I please.

I know that raising our kids is the most important job we'll ever have. And I'm not expecting to be praised for every little thing I did throughout the day. I just wish I didn't have those thoughts of being less-than or inadequate for not contributing as much as I'm capable of.