Getting by with a little help from my friends

Earlier this week I experienced a period of complete and utter turmoil, stress and frustration trying to parent Sam.  My recent blog "Going crazy", detailed a little of what I am going through and what a handful my 2.5 year old is. 

That morning, I received one of the greatest delights in my 'Winter break from Hell' and it turned not only my day around, but gave me the strength to continue on & survive.  One of the best friends any woman could have (with or without children) is named Jennifer W.  We had on the calendar a scheduled drop-off playdate for Ian, at 10:00am at her house.  After getting in a quick work-out at the gym (more to escape actual parenting than anything else), I drove to Jen's house and walked Ian to the door.  Jen inquired about Sam and asked if I was dropping her off too.  WHAT!?!?!  Didn't Jen get the memo, or watch the news or hear the screaming from our house to hers on what I am going thru daily?  Was she really serious that she wanted Sam too?  I thought I was hearing things.  After I confirmed that Sam was invited too, I started tearing up.  This was exactly the break that was needed.  In a very big way. 

I believe that Sam was incredibly happy to be getting a break from me too, because when I went to get her out of the car, she ran to Jen's front door and didn't look back.  I think I may have heard a "bye-bye Mommy" come out of her mouth as she passed me by.

I am not sure if Jen realized just how necessary this drop-off playdate was to my mental well-being.  But, she literally saved me that day.  I am sure at some point I would've had to call Jeff to come home early and let me go somewhere by myself to escape.  Yes, I hit my breaking point.

When I went to go pick the kids up (at 3:00pm!!!!!!!), of course the reports come back that Sam was an angel.  I would much rather her be troublesome with me and no one else, especially a friend I am very fond of.  But still, I feel like I am doing something wrong.  Yes, I know this is just a stage and she will eventually grow out of it.  Jen has been kind enough to offer to have her over anytime I feel like I am about to lose it.  Um, that would mean Sam moves in with you for the next 6 months or so.  :)  And while you are it, can you tackle potty training too? 

Later that afternoon, my other amazing friend Kelly, called and said, "I just read your blog.  I know this is really late notice, but would you like to go the movies tonight?"  My reply?  "Yes!  I could sit in a dark theatre right now and have nothing play on the screen and it would be time well spent."   We saw the movie, "How do you know". Very cute movie and my fantastic, well-relaxed, non-stressed mood continued a little longer.

I owe so much to my mommy friends.  I really think it takes a village to be a stay-at-home-mom.  I feel so fortunate to have an incredible support group that keeps me going.  These friendships I have formed go beyond us having kids in common.  They aren't getting rid of me anytime soon no matter how old our kids get.  I honestly don't know if I'd be able do this job solo.  Nor do I ever want to find out.  Thank you Jen and Kelly -- I love you guys!