When Will the Dishes Get Done?

Tomorrow...probably...possibly...maybe

Having children is a time consuming thing! Not only are there things like feeding, changing diapers, hugging and playing with your child but all that other regular stuff like dishes and laundry still need to get done. So, how can you possibly get everything done and have your house looking clean like it used to? Well, in short, you don't.

I was once told that a good mom has a pile of laundry, sticky floors and a happy baby in her arms. Well, if that's true then I am a terrific Mommy! :)

I've learned to prioritize. My daughter comes first above all else. I spend as much of my time focused on her as I can. But, there's always chores to do. If you were never good at time management, now that you're a parent, it's a good time to learn! Think about what needs to be done, what should be done and what can wait until later.

Needs to be done for me usually involve washing diapers and dishes, and I typically do them in the mornings because I know DD is likely to sit and play contently by herself for a bit. Whatever should be done, like my laundry or tidying up I do if I get the chance (i.e. if DD is still playing or has decided that I had enough time away) and things that can wait, well they can wait until tomorrow.

Now is also a good time to allow yourself to feel comfortable with people seeing toys strewn across your floor and dishes piled in the sink. Here's a secret: everyone has dishes in their sinks at some point. It's not the end of the world if friends see it. You have better things to do at the moment then making sure every single glass is washed to sparkling perfection. If you have a partner, she/he is there to help you out. He/she can pick up the slack and get that sticky floor clean or ask a friend or family member to come help out once in a while. Don't fret too much about having things sparkly, that's just adding unnecessary stress to your life. Yes, some cleaning is required on a regular basis, but chances are if it doesn't get done right away it won't be the end of the world.