Life as a SAHM

I think some wonder what we SAHMs do all day. I mean, it's pretty obvious what a working spouse does: he goes to work. Plus, even if we're not exactly sure of what he actually DOES at work, at least we see the rewards (the paycheck). Unfortunately, for us SAHMs, it's harder to "see" what we do all day (or the rewards. Well, we can see the rewards, but they aren't as immediate as a paycheck). I know that I've had days where I've wondered what I've done all day, or at least why I haven't been as productive as I had hoped. (Recently, someone said that her husband can still be productive while watching their young daughter. Of course, if the tables were turned, she wouldn't have been as productive. I allot that to a child's NEED for mom's attention-- after all, mom's home all day-- versus being content just with dad's presence.)

There is never a shortage of tasks, though some are more pleasant than others. Some I can accomplish with my faithful sidekick (running errands, going walking), while others are best reserved for naptimes (reading my devotions, working out, blogging, scrapbooking, reading). Notice the discrepancy in the list? Funny how I can't accomplish as much as I'd like while Leah's up and about.

I think most people who read this blog happen to be SAHMs, so they can relate. For the few who aren't, though, let me list the various tasks associated with being a SAHM and homemaker (for they are linked):

*feed, clothe, discipline, entertain, change, bathe the kid (add mediate and placate to this item if you have more than one kid)
*clean--- everything (Have you seen how much destruction one kid can cause in five minutes? Now you know why Leah doesn't have a lot of toys)
*run errands (bank, grocery, Target, etc.)
*keep track of birthdays and holidays/ send gifts/ cards
*pay bills
*organize/ attend playdates (for the kid's happiness & mom's sanity)
*pack for visits or vacations (this is an occasional task, but a necessary one)
*decorate the house (so this one is fun, but it requires patience and thought. If I had an unlimited bank account, well, then it would only require thought.)
*plan & cook meals
*relax... notice this is at the END of the list. This item is elusive, especially since so many others require my attention during the day.

I'm sure I've neglected a few items, and I know that this list isn't the same for all SAHMs. Still, you get the idea. Life as a SAHM is hard work, but I wouldn't trade it for any other profession.