Last year I wrote talking about the reasons why it’s so much better to do this whole parenting thing solo. It was a bit tongue in cheek – trust me I know there are pluses and minuses to both!
Well for the past nine weeks, until I moved home a couple of weeks ago, I experienced what co-parenting is like for the first time. In a quick sentence – it’s ruined me. I’ve always maintained that I think to be a single parent, coming from a relationship is a much harder cross to bear than doing this alone off the hop because you know what it’s like to have had help. But for me, I never knew what I was missing – it was always just us. Yup – that was until now. Now, I know what I’m missing.
You co-parents get to….
* have a shower without having to sing Down By The Bay or dodging the hot water from the toilet flushing.
* go to the store and grab milk if you forget it – without having to suit the kid up and lug him along.
* share the responsibilities of washing, cleaning up, cooking, shopping, disciplining, bedtime, daycare drop offs, ear cleaning, barf picking up…you get the picture.
* tell someone you’ve had enough and that you need a break.
I know – I know – I chose this life!!! I’m telling you, the adjustment moving home has been a challenge to say the least. My patience is shorter – I’m exhausted – I snip at him more. AND I miss my sister. I don’t want to live together (what is this The Waltons?). But it’s made me realize that it can be a bit lonely doing this by yourself.
So until I get used to doing it by myself again, the grass on your side of the fence is looking really well fertilized and lush!
**although, go back to my previous list…..I’m not sad about not sharing the hugs anymore…they’re all mine again…even if they are at 5 freaking o’clock in the morning!!!**
Sara,
When I think about raising the kids alone, really think hard about what it would be like, I realize how my hubby does do. And I would have to do all of that. I’m already exhausted by it all sometimes (although I think the 54 kids during the day has a big impact on that).
You rock! Looking forward to Sausage time with you in July. 😀
Hahahah
I hear you, woman. And I love what Kath said… heh.
Oui!
Thanks Aileen!
It’s not always a bed of roses! Like anything, there are the thorns. glad you are well! love reading your posts.
I know a few women who have chosen to have children on their own. I am in awe of you all. Moms rule, and single moms rule the rulers!
you’re probably much stronger for it! glad to hear everything is back to….normal! 🙂
Sarah, always remember what it is we use to fertilize our lawns: sh*t!
Just saying.
It’s true that tag-teaming is a big part of how we parent, and makes it easier. It’s equally true that sometimes we are at total cross-purposes. C’est la guerre, no?