Groundhog Day

[RelentlessMonotony]

Just need to vent, and I know I'm not alone in this...

I'm a SAHM to my 2 DC (15 months and just turned 3). It goes without saying that they are lived beyond measure, however, I am worn down by the constant and neverending repetitive nature of each day.

From the minute I open my eyes (at 5.30am) until around 9pm I don't stop - making food, changing nappies, changing clothes, cleaning up (crumbs and spills, toys, etc.) breaking up fights, dealing with toddler tantrums... all of which is going on whilst trying to hang the washing out, load the dishwasher, hoover, life admin... the list goes on and on. Just as well I have absolutely no desire to do any toddler classes because there just isn't enough hours in the day. They both still nap but rarely at the same time, it's exhausting!

I'm both physically and mentally exhausted. I hate feeling this way but my favourite time of the day is when they both go to bed and I can sit for half an hour in the garden with a hot coffee and breathe. Then I look at them and realise they are growing up so fast and feel guilty about not doing more with them. I see people having (what looks like) lovely days at the beach, etc. We do that at weekends when DH is off work but I just can't bring myself to do it alone as I couldn't manage both the DC by myself, they'd have me tied in knots and I'd just get stressed which wouldn't lead to an enjoyable day for any of us.

I know that it's a hard stage and 'this too shall pass' but right now, I'm feeling tired, stressed and guilty.

I hear you. I only have the one and I am shattered. It’s just constant mess, noise, demands, never get to do anything but at the same time barely anything to do.

Can you afford a couple days daycare? My first went at five months when I returned to work but I had to give up due to health reasons when pregnant with my second bit kept him in two days a week. Then when my daughter was one she went two days a week (I did not return to work).
If that's too much then how about a cleaner? This can break the back of keeping the bathrooms clean and sone will change beds. Mine did ironing.
If these are beyond reach financially I'm sorry you need to power through - your eldest will soon be at reception. Your partner could take on some life admin.

I second childcare if you can afford it. If not, a friend who is a nanny advised me to try and get their naps in sync (currently 40w pregnant and was worried about coping). DS 23mo begins his nap anywhere between 12 and 3 depending on how exciting the day is and what he’s doing. It might take a week of perseverance, moving nap times by 10-15 minutes each day, and it might only be 30 minutes overlap but you’d be able to have some time to yourself. A mum friend also told me that parenting outside of the house is easier than being at home, so we make sure to get out every day regardless of the weather or what needs doing in the house.

Thanks for the replies.

My eldest starts nursery 4 mornings a week from August so there is light at the end of the tunnel. DH is also really hands on around the house. He's useless with admin but the practical stuff (cooking and cleaning) he's great with so I shouldn't complain really. Just feel like I should be enjoying it more than I am.

I will probably be told otherwise but I think those who do enjoy it have a combination of a good support system and / or very chilled children. It’s a heck of a long day to fill with a toddler.