oh! how I dislike shift work! I do not work shift work but Michael does. I am very appreciative of the fact that he works extremely hard for our family but trying to get the kids into a routine does not work well with the shift work schedule. Just as we (the kids and I) get use to Michael being on nights, hes on days again or vise-versa. With me having to be at work at 7:30 I have to get the kids up around 6:15 each morning. Here recently is has been a major ordeal to get Dailee up. By the time I get both kids dressed and into the car, I'm upset, they are upset, and that makes for a crappy day. This past week I have changed up our morning routine a bit and thankfully it has worked. Rather than give the kids their bath at night, I've been giving it to them in the morning. (if they are really dirty, they will get a bath at night) I've been using the bath tub in my bathroom that way they can play while I finish getting dressed. Its worked well. All three of us have gotten in the car, SMILING. We've all had much better days because of this. However this morning, Michael was at home. After working nights and staying up yesterday to haul cattle, he was tired. The kids and I bothered him, and before I knew it I was walking out the door upset. (just keeping it real, not sugar coating it). Like I said before, a routine is not possible with shift work. Since the morning bath routine IS working, I'm going to continue with it, I will just move it into the hall bathroom. I can still get dressed in their bathroom while keeping my eyes on the kids, its just a matter of adjusting for me. :) AND Michael can get the rest he needs. :)
Are you a parent who works shift work or has a spouse that works it? How do you manage a routine with your family? I will gladly take any suggestions.
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Michael can rest after you leave. The house will be quiet again. It's give and take on both sides, don't forget. Shift work stinks! I remember working nights and Russell worked days, and trying to fit in enough sleep while Samantha was at school. Never fun! And I remember when Russell worked second shift, got home at 1 am, and tried to sleep past 6:30 when the kids and I got up. He always had to go back to sleep once we left the house. Don't let it be you doing all the adjusting- that's not healthy for you. I love my brother- very much- but you shouldn't do all the bending- that makes for a tired, grumpy mama- which affects the attitude of the whole household! Ask me how I know this :)
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