The other night I went in to check on my daughters and see if they were asleep. Riley was still awake. On the top bunk, her big wide eyes looked out at me as she earnestly whispered, “Mama, tomorrow I want to have blueberry pancakes in the morning.” It was such a simple thing, but I walked out of her room feeling peaceful and smiling.
Like a frog hopping from one lily pad to the next, I keep reminding myself to look for the good things. It’s a weird time. I’m struggling, but I’m not. So many things are good, and so many are not. For all the mamas still managing remote school almost a year-in, I know you know what I’m talking about. I love our daughters’ home. I just don’t love doing the impossible: being enthusiastic teacher mom while also being effective at work. I’m left with a feeling that I do everything just okay and I’m not okay with that.
If you’re still managing remote school, this little note is for you.
You’re a superhero.
If you’re struggling, remember you are not alone. We are all shouldering so much. We all have some version of the hard stuff life serves up. On top of those challenges and remote school, the world is still pandemic different. You likely haven’t seen people you love in a long time. Don’t discount your strength in navigating things like social isolation and all the unknown of this time. If you’re dealing with a barrage of tough things, give yourself some credit for your strength. Take note of the good as you find your way through.
I’m really taking so much comfort from the simplest of things. Enough sleep. A long run. Hot coffee on a cold morning. But mostly, our family.
Last Saturday the snow made our dogs wild. When they came in from the backyard, our border collie Oreo ran in frantic circles like a crazed dog and playfully snapped his jaw at Biscuit until we all had tears in our eyes from laughing. Oreo is our superhero dog. He can jump four feet straight up in the air and soar through the air as he jumps off a bed.
Mamas, you are superheroes, too. You’ve got this. You’re stronger than you think. Tomorrow, before you face the day, don’t forget your cape.
Have a question or comment for me? Email me at SandraB@MacaroniKid.com
Sandra Bilbray is a nationally published writer, positive human, and publisher of Asheville Macaroni Kid. She lives in Asheville with her husband, twin girls and two dogs.
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