Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Stretched

Normally, I think of myself as someone who really doesn't complain much. I like to think that I can cope with a lot. But lately, I just feel every day like I'm this close to completely snapping.

I barely keep my head above water at work. I had to complain yesterday, because everyone else's work is being given to me, simply because they know I'll do it well and on time - qualities apparently not in abundance in my office.

I'm overscheduled - Mondays it's the Hash, Tuesdays choir, Wednesday knitting lessons, Thursday Ultimate Frisbee, Saturday I spend the day looking after Milo while my husband runs, and bikes, and relaxes. Then Sunday there's church, then jorge's frisbee match in the afternoon. On top of that, add all the social engagements. This week it was a dinner, a luncheon, and tonight we are hosting a big Mardi Gras party.

Of course, I don't make it any easier on myself. I take on too much. I don't have time for all this. This year, I decided I need to finally get in shape. So on top of everything, I work out 5 times a week. Those con artists who tell you exercising improves your health and relieves stress are full of baloney. When they tell you "you don't have time not to exercise" they are pushing lies! I don't have time to exercise, yet I do it anyway. In return, I am tired, stressed, and I'm getting sick again, even though it's only been a month since my last cold. When you are as immunologically challenged as I am, exercise is basically just obesity prevention, no more no less.

I used to get massages once a month to help me relax. Until the economy took a dive in Ireland and I was informed I'll be taking a 20% pay cut this year.

And then, of course, there's the whole working mom thing. The first time I have any time at all to myself in the day, it's 8 at night. And that's assuming my dear husband will let me have any break at all. I am being a bad mom right now and have stuck Milo in front of an episode of "the Muppet Show" just so I can type this. And I'm typing fast, believe me. The other day, Jorge and I cooked a nice Valentine's Day meal. I thought it would be nice to go put on a pretty dress, maybe put my hair up for dinner...I was literally out of my husband's sight for two minutes before the plaintive cries started:

"Gwyneth!"
"What?"
"...Gwyneth!"
"WHAT?"
[long pause]
"Gwyneth!"

So there you go. The reason I don't blog. The reasons my jaw is constantly clenched, my shoulders are ever hunched, and my heart is always racing.

Sorry, no time to spell check this. I've got a pitcher of cocktails to make, a little boy to entertain, two king cakes to decorate, and a shower to take, all before Jorge gets home from his run.

Happy Mardi Gras, y'all.

5 comments:

Jesse said...

I don't like that you are stressed and stretched...but I do like the idea of knitting lessons! Play with soft, fluffy, pretty string - and if Malawi is short on such things, just let me know and I'll whip you up a fibre care package of love.

Unknown said...

Oh my!!! Sucks for the paycut but it is better than nothing at all!! Everything will work out...just drink more! Then blog...that will be fun to read ;p

jcelestelay said...

You are not a bad mom b/c you let your kid watch "The Muppet Show"! You're a bad mom if you let your kid watch "Scream" or "American Pie."

Lucy watches a "healthy" amount of TV. I watched an insane amount of TV growing up, as did my husband, and we're both educated, moderately successful, intelligent folks who consider ourselves to be "well rounded" and socially adjusted. I could go on and on about my thoughts on the idea that good moms are supposed to heap constant attention on their children and never have time for themselves or their work. But I won't.

Milo will be fine with "The Muppet Show" and for what it's worth, I'm very impressed at your ability to juggle everything and can only commiserate. I gave up exercise b/c of time and now I'm trying to balance the desire to not get fat with my desire to get work done and not stress out too much.

Suzanne said...

I'm sympathetic and at the same time a little jealous of how much you accomplish...

Unknown said...

It sounds like you are busy...it is great that you are working out....I need to as well. Take a breather...I need one at times myself with the hubby:) Hope you enjoyed Mardi Gras in Malawi. Take care,
Mary