Well, here we are, over a month into back-to-school season, and I just want to check in on my fellow moms. Are we okay? Are we though? Because personally, I feel like I’ve been running a marathon, uphill, while carrying a backpack full of homework assignments, school forms, and lunchboxes I forgot to empty last Friday. And we haven’t even made it to winter break.
Girl, let’s talk. I see you. You’re a rockstar mom navigating back-to-school with military life stacked on top. PCS moves, new schools, figuring out which base gate is the quickest (spoiler: there isn’t one), and learning the names of every teacher, coach, and random after-school club sponsor—all while managing deployments, TDYs, and that “I’ll be home by dinner” lie we’ve heard a lot. 
I’ll be honest, I’m exhausted. My calendar looks like I tried to organize my life with a box of crayons, and I’ve completely given up on packing Pinterest-worthy lunches. My kids? They’re getting PB&J and a store bought snack, and I refuse to feel guilty about it. If the bread’s not squished, or soggy, I consider that a win.
Life is Overwhelming, But You’re Doing Great!
Has life been overwhelming for you too? Maybe you had dreams of being Supermom this school year, showing up to every event on time with perfectly behaved children. But instead, here we are—barely making it to pick-up without getting side-eyed by the carpool teacher. Just know that if your kid wore matching socks once this week, that’s worth celebrating.
I’m going to say what we all need to hear: GIRL, YOU’RE DOING WONDERFUL!!!!! Even if you forgot it was spirit week until you saw everyone else’s kid dressed out in neon (who actually remembers these things?), or if you still haven’t finished labeling every notebook because, why and, who has time for that? You are a great mom. And, newsflash, so are your kids!
Let’s Take a Moment for Self-Care
Have you had one of those mornings where you pour your coffee, sit down, take a deep breath… and suddenly someone needs a permission slip signed immediately or they can’t go on the field trip? Just me? Thought so.
It’s okay to admit that maybe, just maybe, we need a little self-care. I’m not saying you need to book a full spa day (though, wouldn’t that be nice?), but hey, if you find five minutes to drink your coffee while it’s still hot, take the win. Or maybe your self-care is hiding in the bathroom for a few minutes while your kids are occupied with whatever show or game keeps them quiet. No judgement here.
We’re All in This Together
Hey momma’s, let’s give ourselves some grace. We’re managing a lot. We’re balancing school schedules, after-school activities, military life chaos, and the occasional surprise “Oh, I forgot to tell you I need three dozen cupcakes by tomorrow” moments. And you know what? We’re still standing. Maybe a little tired, maybe with an energy drink in hand, but still standing.
Let’s keep cheering each other on. You’re a great mom, and just because life feels like a juggling act doesn’t mean you’re not rocking it. And if today was a hot mess? Tomorrow is a new day—just as chaotic, but at least we’ll have coffee.
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