It’s that small little thing that you do to show someone that they are important in the work they do.
It’s Saturday morning. We (me and the boys) talked about having eggs and pancakes for breakfast last night, so I ended up in the kitchen about an hour ago. I went to town. Making this huge breakfast for us.
Things have been really hard lately. The only breaks I have from my boys are the times they are at school. Within those times, I have to grocery shop, run errands, etc. I prefer NOT to take them to the store because they are unbearable. Ricky and Nate have been CONSTANTLY asking the same questions. I mean, within seconds, they are asking the same question. Eventually, I get so fed up, I just stop answering. If you don’t hear me the first time I answer, then it must not be important. Well, this morning, it escalated. I just couldn’t even talk anymore, I was so upset.
Sometimes, a woman just needs to feel appreciated and a 6 and a 4 year old have no concept of this. They don’t know to come up to you and hug you and say how much they appreciate you. I just take the thankyous as they come and take it for what it is.
After cooking this breakfast, and complaining for an hour that they “wanted a snack until breakfast was ready,” Ricky made a comment about how “the food looked.” *sigh* When he saw that he hurt my feelings he said, “mom, what I meant to say was, you’re one of the best pancake makers I know.” 
It took my breath away.
I just feel like there really isn’t anyone who appreciates me. I should specify…ADULTS. I know that a lot of moms feel this daily also. The bottom line is that I’m terribly lonely. I really don’t have anyone around me, on a constant basis, to tell me that I’m doing a good job. To tell me that what I’m doing is right. To tell me not to worry. And to tell me that I’m appreciated.
It sucks.
Amy,
I just happened onto your blog through the local freecycle. I love coupons, but was more fascinated by your blog. I also have a 6 yr. old, and a 4 yr. old, and a 20mo. old. I feel your pain about appreciation! Sometimes motherhood is a lonely painful business isn’t it. I really do love the one of well thought out meals that “don’t look good enough to eat.” I tell my kids often that I am unfortunately NOT a short order chef, nor are they at a restaurant, nor is everything going to be a favorite. I don’t think THEY appreciate that!