My Biggest Challenges In The Trenches Of Motherhood

One of my biggest challenges as a mother is finding a balance.  

Giving each child the right amount of attention, while also working, and  getting things done I need to.  In March of 2007 I became a stay at home mom.  I started blogging on and off in the Summer of 2009.  I took a break, blogging less,  last year after having my fourth child.  My life was very busy and frankly still is.  I recently started putting more time and energy into blogging again.  I enjoy blogging so much and knew I needed to start get myself out there again and be more consistent.  Most days I do try to spend time throughout the day with each child. Other days I feel like all I have done is housework and work on other projects without giving them enough attention.   With that being said, I do feel they need to learn to be independent and entertain themselves at times.  I know it’s all about finding the balance.   I just haven’t completely found it quite yet.

Another challenge is finding “REAL” time with my husband.

With four children under the age of seven our life is crazy.  Before you know it the day is over and another is already beginning.  We really do need to find more quality intimate one on one time together.  Finding a regular babysitter to watch four kids isn’t easy.  It’s a lot to ask of someone.  A few years ago when we just had two, it wasn’t so difficult.  We have recently agreed one night a week we need to throw everything aside and have a date night at home after the kids go to bed.
Yet another challenge for me is letting go of the whole type A personality of needing things to be perfect.

I use to clean my house and keep it in tip top shape.  Now with a 1,3, 5, and 7 year old I just can’t. If one room is clean another isn’t.  As soon as I feel like the laundry is done, there are 3 more loads right behind me to be washed.  After having my fourth child last year I have pretty much thrown in the towel.  I really have no choice unless I want to go completely insane.  I do still have my moments of mommy meltdowns when I get completely overwhelmed.
Last but certainly not least is finding “Me Time” is also a challenge.

In the very beginning I use to feel guilty about wanting or truly needing to have some alone time.  I realize now “Me Time” is very important to have.  I love my children very much but I do need a break.  When you stay or work from home, you are “mommy” twenty four hours a day.  You can loose “yourself” somewhere along the way if your not careful.

What is your biggest challenge/challenges in life? How have you succeeded in working through them?