A Single Mom's Freedom

Homeschooling. Working from home. A single mom. Three challenges but 3 things I wouldn't change. But that doesn't mean that there isn't a day or two that takes the word challenging to a whole new level, and today was one of those days.

Some of the stress from today includes:

Took 5 year old to the doctor for a minor concussion
Dealt with a blocked toilet
Listened to kids argue while having a screen free day, as suggested by the doctor to help recover from the minor concussion (I don't care if you judge me but sometimes screen time = the only alone / quiet time I get each day)
Scheduled 3 2hr assessments in the next 2.5 weeks (have been waiting almost a year for them, so why not call today in the midst of the chaos)
Drove 30 min (each way) for a class that's actually tomorrow

My 5 yr old has sensory processing issues and a huge need for attachment. She finds it hard to be alone and play by herself. That makes it incredibly hard for her older sister and I, who are introverts that need alone time, to recharge. Finding a balance that suits all of us is a never ending struggle.

So what does the garbage bin represent? It represents 5 solid minutes of no talking / arguing / crying. It represents 5 solid minutes of not being asked to get something / fix something / remove someone from a room. It represents 5 solid minutes of catching my breath and attempting to clear my mind. Taking the garbage out was the only me time I was able to catch today. I'll get a bit more after they are in bed, but that usual means I sacrifice sleep for reading or catching up on PVR'ed shows I don't get to watch often enough.

Today was more than a challenge. It was a break down, cry, try to piece myself back together kind of day. So here's to a better day tomorrow.