When my oldest two kiddos started school, Brian and I would usually have a debrief a few nights before school started. We would talk about being a team, facing the school year, homework challenges, schedule changes, and bedtime routines. It was usually a pep talk for me, the one who doesn’t like change. My nostalgia for yesterday was already strangling my vision for tomorrow.

Aside: it’s strange how nostalgia can be beautiful and harrowing all at the same time. If I dwell in the past a little too long, paralysis sets in. I can feel my eyes squinting and my breath changing. I have to physically take a deep breath and roll my shoulders, shrugging off the lie that the present will never be as sweet as the past. 

This year my youngest three will be in 10th grade, 6th grade, and 4th grade. As I folded the next basket of laundry yesterday, I smiled and reminded myself of these pep talks.

One of the most helpful things I remind myself of is the “three-week swing”.

It will take me approximately three weeks to get used to the different morning routines.

It will take my kids approximately three weeks to get used to the different bedtime routines.

It will take my husband approximately three weeks of putting up with me dropping multiple balls – laundry, dusting, and dinner may be subpar. And you know what?

All will be well. Every important thing will get done. It may be late, or I may learn it really wasn’t that important after all.

The kids will take their cues from me. Am I rushed and rude? Am I annoyed and irritated? Or am I peaceful and gentle with my answers? Do I smile at their father when he walks through the door after a long day at work and a long commute? Do I worry less about the towel being picked up off the floor and more about the goodnight prayers and hugs?

If I could share anything from my 26 years of parenting, I would tell you to give yourself three weeks. Let yourself settle into a new rhythm.

In three weeks, if it still feels overwhelming, take something off your plate. Maybe buy paper plates for a while so that dishes don’t seem so overwhelming. Make sandwiches for dinner for a little while until cooking doesn’t feel so scary. Buy one extra pair of socks to put away for the morning that you cannot find any clean pairs. And text your friends. It helps to know you aren’t the only one feeling overwhelmed.

We are in this together! I’m rooting for you and praying for you!