The Many Jobs of a Mom and Dad

I'm no different than any other mom or dad really. Some may have more or less to add to this list. It is just funny to look at it all in one place! I think a lot of the busy work is self imposed and somewhat hereditary in my case! For those who are thinking they do nothing all day or think someone does nothing all day, you might want to think that one over.

Housekeeper - Daily tidying of home, putting items back where they belong, laundry, bed making, cleaning, and creating harmony (for my eyes and nose at least!).

Taxi Driver - Toting my tweenager & sometimes friends to scouts, school activities, or the bus stop on rainy/cold mornings!

Party/Trip Planner -Making sure that family members have something fun to do by feeding them with ideas, planning special occasions such as birthdays, vacations, and holiday to dos.

Tutor - While I still can, I help my son with his understanding of homework. Also, strongly nudging him about penmanship and organization!

Prep Cook/Kitchen Manager - Ok, at my house I cannot list Chef/Cook as my husband loves to do this. Please don't hate me! Most of the time, I am the one who comes up with what we are having for meals or events.

Dishwasher -Yep, with a husband who cooks, comes a lot more dishes. Every pan must be used or the food tastes bad!

Seamstress -I was doing the happy dance that my son's legs are now long enough that most of his pants don't need hemming. Now things seem to be ripping at the seams more often than not! So, my arch nemesis, the sewing machine, still has a place in my home! I know some of you really love to sew, don't rub it in!

Gardener - Part of this is really relaxing and I love (mowing!), I can get podcasts listened to, sing along with music without being heard, or just daydream. The other half (weeding), was a punishment as a child, so now I try to avoid weeds by any means. (I use lots and lots of mulch!) I like planting the flowers and harvesting the veggies, that makes the work worth it in the end!

Bookkeeper - Paying bills, and doing the taxes... ugghhh! Stay away from me in April!

Answering Service - As my son gets older, the more phone calls I seem to be answering that aren't for me!

Organizer - Got to be able to open the cupboards or closets without things falling on me! Plus, sometimes I have to assist in the recapture of hidden objects. "Really mom, I cleaned my room, I don't know where that could have gone!" Needless to say, this starts a full room assault, not a pretty sight!

Counselor - Listening to my husband about his day at work and other annoyances of his, like the satellite going out. I must ensure that my son is having a good time in school. This takes an interrogation process daily to find out.

I have to laugh. If we were paying someone for this work, we'd be broke! I get to spend time with my favorite people, which is fine with me! Sometimes, I just need reminding that I am actually "doing" something.