I have a placard on my desk that says, “Chaos Coordinator.” It is a title that I fully embrace. I’m proud of the chaos I coordinate daily. Whether that’s the people and projects I manage for work or the little people that follow me everywhere (even into the bathroom), there is always a little bit of chaos—and that’s the way I like it. People ask me all the time how I juggle six kids, a full-time job, and homeschooling. Sometimes they ask with genuine curiosity. Sometimes with wide eyes and a tone that suggests concern for my wellbeing. Occasionally with a look that says, “I would simply pass away.”
The "Work at Homeschool Mom"
We quietly started our homeschool journey
If you had told me seven years ago that I would be the one educating my kids from my dining room table, I would not have believed it. My husband and I both are the products of public school education. Parenting is hard enough and now it’s my responsibility to make sure they can grow up to be productive citizens?!?! I’m just coming out of the haze of having four kids in five years! No way I can do this! And yet here we are. Last week we quietly started our homeschool journey.
How I was reminded to change my attitude about school this year
Remote learning for 9 weeks…. 9 whole weeks… at least! That’s the news we got last month about the re-opening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yes, I know it’s safer for our awesome teachers and families, especially those that are at risk. Yes, I know that bringing the kids into school would both cost a lot more for cleaning and possibly put the kids at risk. Yes, I want to be a good citizen and protect others. However… NINE. WHOLE. WEEKS. TEACHING. AT. HOME. I was terrified. I AM TERRIFIED.
How I'm trying not to treat a gift like a burden
I knew that being at home with four kids wouldn’t be easy and I was right. While I’m trying to juggle working and entertaining a 5, 3, 2, and 10 month old I have to keep reminding myself to give myself a break. Here I am thinking that I can have it all, but I can’t possibly be all things to all people, and if I try, I will be the one that breaks.