Figuring things out.

When I made the decision to quit my job and work from home as and when there were freelance writing assignments, I knew the transition wouldn’t be easy. It’s been about six weeks now and I’m starting to feel a little antsy from having to entertain my daughter for hours on end. I’m not someone who relates easily to kids, so being forced to play with her unceasingly is honestly beginning to grate even though spending more time with her was ironically the very reason I decided to leave full-time employment.

To maintain my sanity and her emotional well-being, I’ve decided to make a few changes to the daily routine. First, there will be no watching of Charlotte’s Web or The Incredibles or any other fad kids’ movie of the moment more than once a day. TV during mealtimes will be kept strictly to half an hour at most. Yes, unfortunately, she is not one of those well-trained children who eats at the table and feeds herself. Yet.

Second, there will be variety in our day. We will go swimming. Take a walk up the hill. Do some art and craft. Bake cookies. Go grocerying. Something new everyday, to keep things interesting. This should occupy us for at least a couple of hours, taking us up to around dinner time. She will have her usual bubble bath, and then her dinner. Shortly after that, her daddy should be home and then I can escape and do my own thing while he catches up with her. By about 10pm, she should be good and ready for bed. And then both her dad and I can heave a huge sigh of relief and turn our minds to things that can only be done while she slumbers. Such as work.

Sounds like a plan? I certainly hope so. Funny how it was so much easier to sit and play with her when I was working than now, when I have all the time in the world.

What are your tips for maintaining your wits while staying home with your child(ren)?