This was the first year that I didn't feel like that. Maybe because they're a bit older, but not so old that they're jerks yet.

I think expectations also don't help.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My toddler decided to have an ear infection on the heels of a cold that she got after daycare was closed for a Covid case. My infant decided he needed to be up for an hour last night at 1am and keeps waking up and crying when I try to put him in his crib tonight. I am so ready for a bath (when I’m finally allowed to put the baby down).

Decided to have an ear infection? How rude of her.

Right? Totally inconsiderate! 😂 Fortunately she’s better today but whew yesterday was long.

Mine were fine in the morning but the afternoon descended into chaos (fighting with each other, not listening, general crankiness). I really think it had to do with 2 straight days of rain and then another gloomy, cold morning. Not being able to run around outside always means worse behavior.

Well, if you only expect good behavior on certain days...

My kids are expected to be on good behavior every day. That means they don't feel extra pressure when we do something unusual like have a family brunch. If anything, DH and I are more prone to let things slide like loud play in the basement or outside with cousins, and a small can of Sprite at holiday gatherings, because good behavior is for every day and cousin days only happen sometimes.

Anonymous wrote:I was just about to post this heading:

I think Mother’s Day is the hardest day of the year.

My husband just isn’t good at holidays. I said exactly what I wanted and he did it, but nothing more. I bought my own gift also.

My kids are 6,5, 1. My husband left at 3 for a business trip. Kids were awful. Slammed doors, screamed. We all screamed. I’m crying now (it’s 9pm) in disappointment.

I agree! I'm on my 4th one and I'm always surprised that it's such a hard day. Maybe the expectation that we be joyful, but I just end up feeling sad that I feel so burnt out and find motherhood hard. Maybe it will be better when the kids are older and it's not a marathon day of parenting anymore.

Anonymous wrote:
My kids have always been delightful.

My husband, on the other hand, is a piece of work.

The problem is that I'll be left with this guy once the kids fly the nest...

Why? Don't you deserve better? The bar doesn't have to be that low.