I was sitting on my couch the other day watching my son make an utter mess and then heard myself tell him if he didn’t clean it up his birthday may not be as awesome as he wants it. Who have I become? I used to listen to my Aunts encourage my cousins and even myself to be good with an upcoming Holiday or Birthday as the incentive and I promised myself I would never do that. Well here I am. Guess what – it works. I even thought up a few other signs that I’m Not the Mom I thought I would be… 10 to be exact.
1. I can dose a Meds dropper by the light of my phone and never wake my sleeping patient
Let’s face it. Those middle of the night medicine doses are not fun. I hate getting up and I hate waking up my Kiddie. Why? Usually because once i wake them up they stay up for at least the next hour. So what have I done? I have become skilled at using as little light as possible (most times the flashlight on my phone) to dose and medicate said Kiddie without them ever knowing. It’s a skill and I’m proud to have it.
2. ‘We’ll See’ has become my standard reply to ALL request. No commitment = no disappointment
I learned when my oldest was about 3 that saying yes usually meant I was basically signing my soul away to a child because if I ever had to take that word back it was a complete devastation. The world was ending and I was the worse mom ever.
So how have I fixed this dilemma with my 3 younger Kiddies? Now when I am faced with the never ending Can We Go? Can We Have? or Can We Get? requests instead of committing to a Yes. I answer: We’ll See. This gives me time to consider, plan and if necessary deny said requests.
My Kiddies are so used to it now that when their younger brother asked what “We’ll See” means recently (he’s 3) my Girlies told him: “It usually means no but sometimes she surprises us”
Yup. I’m a genius. I know. 🙂
3. Bribery is NOT beneath me
Never say never. Growing up I said I would never ‘bribe’ my children to be good. Listen, that is truly a beautiful thought. That your children will always be good simply because you want them to but the reality: they won’t. My Kiddies are pretty well behaved but there are times when the situation requires a bribe.
That’s right requires. When I’m in public, a professional setting or I know I need them to cooperate I have been known to negotiate the behavior I need. Whether that is a promise of a Happy Meal, Ice Cream or small toy, bribery – I have learned – is not beneath me.
4. Activity wait times are the closest thing I get to ‘me time’
So I try to keep my Kiddies as active and busy as possible but it’s not only for their benefit. Nope. I have an ulterior motive. It gives me bit of ‘me time’. That hour or so that I spend waiting in the little areas designated for parents. That’s time I get to think, read, blog or even play a game without interruption. It’s my golden time and I love it.
5. Cleaning up may sometimes include a trip to the trash for a few toys.
You’ve done it too. You know you have. Those toys that are broken, don’t seem to play anymore or have even been forgotten. You have a mini ‘clean up‘ and suddenly they disappear.
I’ve done it and I’m not ashamed. My Kiddies have so many toys that I know they don’t even notice when I have one of my clean up moments. The toys that are good enough to pass on I sneak to the car and donate but the ones that are broken or simply not worth the rescue they say hello to the trash-man the next day.
6. Some toys don’t deserve new batteries
Speaking of toys. There are some toys that once the ‘batteries included’ give out their last bit of juice I honestly don’t think they deserve new ones. I have had this one toy that only made it’s creepy laughing sound when I was alone at night and while I had no idea where it was. So when the battery finally died and my Kiddies asked me to replace them…I didn’t have it – and I never planned on getting it. That toy just didn’t deserve it.
7. Some places are closed according to Momma’s mood about going there
Okay so this may be a bit of a white lie moment. I know. Still, let me ask: have you ever been warm, content and happy in your PJs and just ready to relax and have your Kiddies request something that would mean getting dressed and actually going outside? Or even on your way home and suddenly they want to go get whatever from wherever? Yet home is in view and all you want is your bed?
These are the times when certain business hours may change slightly according to my mood. Yes, McDonald’s has been closed at 1:25pm and No, Toys R Us is not always open on a Saturday. Why? because I don’t want to go there and being closed usually means less persistence in the request to go.
Fault me if you will. #SorryNotSorry
8. I have a set of Apps designed specifically for distraction
When in doubt App them out. Yup, I am that mom. The one who has a Kiddie begging to leave from boredom during one of my many errands or appointments who hands over her phone with the latest and greatest Kiddie distraction App. Why? Because it works. Nuff said.
9. I’m not above using upcoming birthdays and holidays as ‘incentive’ for good behavior
Like I stated in the beginning, I have been know to remind my Kiddies that there is a Holiday or Birthday coming up that they may want to be on their best behavior for to make sure all their wishes come true.
Does this make me a bad person or mother? I don’t think so. Deep down they know I will still make it all they want it to be but that slight possibility that throwing that next piece of candy may put those dreams at risk…yeah that works.
10. The bathroom has become my sanctuary
There was a time when going to bathroom was a quick process and I was always rushing to get back to a baby, a task or a chore. No more. Now a trip to the bathroom is about the only time I get to think my own thoughts. I sneak in there, close the door and find my bit of escape and sanctuary even if it only lasts for about 10 minutes and ends with little fingers under the door. They’re my moments and I treasure them.
What number can you relate to?
This Post was written as part of the
NaBloPoMo Challenge…
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Lifestyle Blogger & Media Influencer at IT's Me, Tee
I am the ‘ Tee’ behind It's Me, Tee an award-winning Lifestyle Blog where I share my love of all things Faith, Family, Fashion, Food, Fun, Tech & Travel.
“Believe in yourself, your passions, and your dreams. Your voice is unique - build on that. Embrace what is different about you and make it your greatest asset!”
“Believe in yourself, your passions, and your dreams. Your voice is unique - build on that. Embrace what is different about you and make it your greatest asset!”
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67 thoughts on “10 Signs I’m Not The Mom I Thought I’d Be”
I'm sure I'll be doing a lot of these as my little one gets older!
My recent post I have some holiday surprises up my sleeve!
Haha! Yes, yes you will 😀
I LOVE how things are closed! The playground down the street is frequently closed, and the TV is often "sleeping". Because no more Mickey Mouse.
Haha! Exactly! I do too…it’s so convenient – for me that is 🙂 Oh the TV sleeping! That is perfection, I may need to borrow that one Lynne!
I love this! I think I can relate to everyone! Thanks for linking up to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Party! I’ve pinned your post to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Board.
My recent post Bloggers Brags Pinterest Party, Week 55 #pinterest #linky
Thanks Tammy! It’s been great finding out I am not the only mom who has her own set of secret tools with her Kiddies 🙂 Thanks so much for hosting such a great party to share at…
I wish my bathroom was my sanctuary…it's crazy how that;'s when everyone needs me the most. I so throw out toys and lie about not having batteries. I lie about places being closed too!!! I can't medicate while he's asleep though, how do you do that???? I have to wake him up, but he usually goes back to bed unless he's horribly sick then I have to stay with him.
Haha! I had to find somewhere to simply take a breather…LOL
Oh dosing while asleep is a skill that took me many years to perfect. I have the syringe type medication dosers. I just squeeze his cheeks a bit to get his mouth open stick it to the corner of his mouth towards the back and slowly administer. He swallows out of instinct and never wakes up.
🙂
I am so going to try that move!!!! Thanks babe! (HUGS)
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Ummm 4- 10? I mean seriously- you NAILED it! My 5 year old already asks when I say We'll SEE! "Does that mean yes or no?" Sigh.
LOL…Thanks! Yes, it really can stink when they start learning your game doesn\’t it? 😉
2 & 4 are my top ones! The kids haven't caught on to "we'll see"
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Haha! Yay Jen, unfortunately my older ones have caught on and are teaching the youngest but I will still use it for as long as possible 🙂
Ok small quick secret. Years ago I asked my very proper mum how she did it. i was going out of my mind. She asked me to remember those Fridays when she would set my sister and I up with cartoons or something to do and she would be in the house but disappear. I said yes I remember. She would go and run a bath and take a glass of wine to that room and lock the door. She then said you need to find a room with a lock or get a babysitter and get yourself a glass of wine.
Years later as I became the mum of a teen, I asked several girlfriends how they coped. I was invited to the girls Friday night club…. Holy cow!!!!!!
Wow!! That is so cool! I’m telling you it is necessary! Every mom needs that time alone even it is less than an hour to simple be – be alone with her thoughts and just regroup. Your mom was smart and I’m glad she passed her secret on to you 😀
Hmmm, I'd say I probably most relate to #5. Having grown up in a cluttered home, I really can't stand clutter. My mother told me that I was the child who held the firm belief "for every thing there is a place, for every place there is a thing". So true!!! So, every now and then mommy cleans the playroom….with a garbage bag in tow…and viola' perfection. My daughter never asks or complains…she's a pack rat and doesn't know of half the stuff she has (and is probably grateful she didn't have to clean it)! 🙂
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My youngest daughter is exactly the same way. That quote would definitely fit her. She is always cleaning up behind her siblings and my clean up doesn’t bother her at all 😀
I'm sooooo not the mama I thought I'd be. Bribery… no, it's not beneath me. I'd like to think it's persuasive parenting 🙂
XOOX
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Haha! I think we all feel this way sometimes. As long as we are doing out best…that’s what matters! I like that – persuasion is necessary.
Love this! I'm all about #9 right now since I have 2 of my 3 with upcoming birthdays on top of holidays. And my oldest knows not to get in major trouble because I WILL cancel a birthday party at the last minute & direct all gifts to the return counter or Goodwill's nearest donation box.
Thanks Melissa! Yes, #9 is in full effect come Birthday and Holiday season…poor Kiddies LOL 😉
I love it!!! I checked so many off the list that I agree with – what a crack-up!!
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Thanks Jamie! Haha…at least I\’m not alone 🙂
I don't have kids yet, but I have experienced a lot of these things as a nanny! It's funny how we think we will be one way, and then find out life isn't that ideal! Thanks for sharing this with Hump Day Happenings.
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It really is. You never know until you are in the midst of something how you will be. Thanks so much for hosting such a great way to share Jenna…
I can relate to all of those and I am not ashamed to admit it. We gotta keep our sanity somehow!
My recent post ‘Tis the season: Season’s Cleaning Tips From Merry Maids
Yay! A kindred spirit LOL… Yes! Sanity is definitely most important 🙂 Thanks for coming by Ana…
I love bribery as it gets things done faster.
It really does Tara… 🙂
I can so relate to all of these! I especially love we'll see! That is my go to when I am not sure!
Thanks Heidi!! I have definitely worn that phrase out more than any other 🙂
I can relate to #2…I use it all the time with my nephew. But, I never thought of it in the way you put it…no commitment and no disappointment.
They aren’t as disappointed if I can’t come through because they realize it wasn’t a firm yes. Hey, I’ll take any little bit I can 🙂
OMG this is hilarious. Why? Because I have or can relate to all of them. Love it. This is the best post I have read in awhile. Thank you so much for sharing. New follower and found you from Let's Be Friends.
LMBO…Thanks! I’m so glad to find out I’m not alone… 😀 Thank you so much!! So happy to connect Trina…
Number 2 and 5! Number 6 has me laughing and after the day I had yesterday I needed a laugh! 😀
Haha! Yes those are my Go-Tos…LOL We’ll See is what I say without hesitation and many a toy has disappeared as I cleaned. LOL – who says batteries are a must? 😀
AMEN! I use them all! You have to or you will lose your sanity either from melt downs or constantly running yourself ragged!
Yes Jeanette!! It’s a survival tactic for sure 😀
Yes, bribery is not beneath me, either! 🙂 I also use the words "We' see" all the time! It usually means yes but I just don't want to say yes because I don't want to end up dashing any expectations if something changes. Hang in there mama – I will know to look for you in the bathroom!
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Exactly!! “We’ll See” is my way of making sure I don’t disappoint…
Yes, if you can’t find me that’s usually where I am LOL 🙂
The bathroom is the only room I can have some time to myself. However, I still have little people knocking on the door and waiting for me to get out.
My recent post Beyond The Lights + Weekly Goals
I think bathrooms are a Mother’s hiding place and sanctuary LOL oh I still have the little voices calling for me but most times they give up after a few moments…most times 😉
I can relate to so many of these. I love the "Mcdonald's is sometimes closed at 125pm" lol!
Tiffany http://www.themommyglow.net
Yay!!! I knew I couldn’t be the only one ;). Yes sometimes McDonalds just doesn’t fit our schedules LoL
I confess to 1,2,3,4 (pinning from my phone) ,5,6, 7 and 9! There were no apps when mine were small so that was out, and they would just bang on the bathroom door anyway, or worse, open the lock with a chip fork(that's a UK thing I think, little wooden fork from the chip shop???) and just come straight on in!
Bribery is a tried and tested parenting technique, I'm sure even Supernanny does that doesn't she?
Haha! All but one is a great list…I love Apps and the greatest part is I pick the educational ones and they don\’t even notice! Oh I am so glad my Kiddies have not figured out how to pick the locks…I would loose my sanctuary!
Yes, I\’m sure even the SuperNanny uses a bit of bribery…
I think I can relate to all of these!! Not only have a few toys disappeared during cleanup but sometimes little toys disappear as I vacuum. I use to try to avoid them, but now with 3 kids I stuck them right up if they are something that won't be missed.
My recent post When Listening to Others Keeps You Stuck
That is so great Stephanie!! I never thought of the vacuum …I may need to add that to my list 😉 Thanks so much for coming by to visit me today!
Number 3 and 5 are spot on! love it! Anything can be solved with a bit of bribery in my house!!
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Haha! I’m glad to know I’m not alone in my bribery skills… 🙂
Great list! Hey nothing wrong with a little bribery, distraction, or the shop being closed at odd times of the day.
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Thanks Julie! Yes, those are definitely my Top 3 Secret Weapons 🙂
Love this! I see myself saying a lot of these things
My recent post Tackling Teething: Our favorite Teething Toys
Parenting will make you say and do a lot of things you may not have thought of before…LOL
Haha. I love this! I think we all have these grand ideas of the things we would never do as a parent, but we really don't know until we are one. 🙂
My recent post All That Jazz: Doreen Ketchens
Thanks! You’re right! Being a parent is something you can never know until your right in the thick of it all…LOL
Awww…I love this!! I remember some of these tactics being used on me and I'm sure I will use them on my children as well. Great post!!
Thank You Ricci! It’s funny how we as kids think “I’ll never do that” Oh how little we know…LOL
Bahaha. The bathroom is amazing and 100% agree not all toys are worthy of new batteries.
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Yes, I love my Bathroom! LOL…nope they aren’t, not at all. Thanks for coming by to visit Deanna 🙂
YES! YES! I love this! "We'll see" is my go to, non-committal answer too and yes, some toys DO NOT deserve new batteries! I knew I liked you!
My recent post There Ain’t No Elf On My Shelf!
Haha! LOL…My youngest didn’t realize we’ll see was a put off but I think he’s catching on…LOL No. No they don’t! xoxoxo 😀
The things about the toys are SO true! Haha.
My recent post Gifts I’m Giving This Year!
Thanks Hannah! LOL…sometimes toys just go away 🙂
This was so interesting to read! I smiled through reading it because even though I am not a mama yet I can see myself thinking some of the same things! Thank you for sharing with us!!
🙂 Rebecca
p.s. Stopping over from the Peony project link up! 🙂
Thank you Rebecca! Being a Momma can definitely bring a few changes… 🙂