@chriscb There’s some deep wisdom in this post — sometimes the best thing you can do is just remove the kid from the center of attention and just
do something with your life (with them in tow).
On the weekends I’ve been left alone with our baby girl, when I just get so bored and fed up and tired of doing nothing but “baby”, I just have to acknowledge that — while TECHNICALLY it’s easier to just stay at home with her where all her stuff is — she and I are gonna go on an adventure.
Oh, you’re being fussy and high maintenance? All right kiddo, we’re getting in the car. Pack some diapers, some formula in a Tupperware, and a change of clothes. Let’s go.
There’s a band playing an afternoon show at the bar down the street! Let’s go check that out. I don’t care if you’re fussy. I’ll hold you and dance around with you while we both enjoy some live music and Dad gets to have a beer or two. Then let’s go get some tacos.
It’s WORK with a capital W, but man it makes the day go so much faster, she gets to see the world a little bit, I don’t feel like I just wasted the day, and we both come home a little better balanced and a little happier. And then she sleeps better that night because she just got some stimulation and action.
Point being — have a life. Make your kids part of it. It’s more work to haul them around town than it is to sit at home with them, and they might fuss in the car or be a handful out in public, but it will make you happier.
