Choosing Me (Even on a Snow Day)

Tuesday was a snow day. Two out of the three kids were thrilled (the youngest was upset that she wasn’t going to be able to see her library teacher again!) I, however, was working from home, which really meant I will be attempting to be productive while my kids run crazy in the background.

Don’t get me wrong, I really love AND like my kids. They are hilarious, creative, & smart, too smart. They also know that I am kinda soft. They see me and take advantage with their unlimited requests.

So there I was, laptop open, locked in while they yelled at their cousins over Facetime while playing Roblox. A few times they came knocking for snacks, but then came the BIG ASK:

“Can we go outside and play in the snow?”

Listen, I wanted to be that mom who smiles and says, “Sure! Go pick out your things to bundle up in!” But in real life? That’s a full-blown production: because every winter item we own is in a different location. One rouge glove is in the laundry room. Someone’s boot is buried deep in the closet under their dad’s MANY shoes. And the aftermath? Wet clothes, wet floors, cold kids, and only 10 minutes have gone by before they decided they’re done.

So I said no.

For a split second, I felt bad. But honestly? I chose me. I chose peace. I chose not to stop working to referee snow boots and argue about why we do have to zip up coats all the way.

Was it selfish? Maybe. But guess what happened? They moved on and found something else to do. They probably forgot about it within five minutes because kids are resilient like that, especially when there’s a chance to make a mess in another room.

Meanwhile, I got my work done, kept my sanity intact, and didn’t have to peel frozen clothing off small humans who swear they aren’t cold while shivering like our terrier Chika.

So yeah, I said no. And honestly? I’m proud of me!

Motherhood is full of moments where we feel like we’re supposed to be “on” all the time, ready to entertain, ready to problem solve, ready to sacrifice. But sometimes being a good mom means saying, “Not right now. I’m working. I’m tired. Or just not in the mood to deal with soggy socks today.”

And that’s okay. The kids are fine. I’m fine. And somewhere, one lonely glove is still hiding in the house waiting for its moment.