I’m a better mom when I wear a sports bra
The best/worst way to tell kids you can’t play with them? “Sorry sweetie I don’t want to get all sweaty!” Just like when I’m wearing athleisure I’m more likely to exercise, if I’m wearing comfortable clothes I can move in I’m much more likely to actually PLAY with the kids. My BFF Sarah plays with her kids in dresses and heels – I have no idea how she stays comfortable 
While it’s nice to shower for the day, I’m so much more likely to do fun mom stuff if I’m dressed like I’m ready for exercise.
Birch and I have been talking walks after lunch for a nice little activity. It’s a great way for us to get out in the fresh air. And it’s SO nice now that it’s not 100 degrees at 1:00.
If Mazen wants to play tag or kick a soccer ball after school, I’m much more inclined to say “sure!” if a wardrobe change does not need to happen first.
Actual footage of me after playing hard with the boys
I’m a better mom when I am well fed
I have guilt around losing my mojo in the kitchen after having kids. But the truth is that I just don’t love cooking when I’m feeling rushed and distracted and would rather be spending time with my kids instead of telling them to skidaddle. I need to GET OVER the guilt and accept that by asking for help I am so much happier and healthier than I would be otherwise. Plenty is a made-from-scratch personal chef business we have been using since Birch was born and it’s LIFE CHANGING. Della (the chef) uses the tagline “Food Is Self Care” and she is so right. Eating nutritious healthy food is a huge priority of mine and supporting her business ensures that I am meeting that need while also saving me tons of time I would be otherwise in the kitchen. We don’t order all of our food for the week from Plenty – usually 1-2 dinners and a few lunch salads – but it’s enough to make a huge difference on the busiest of weeknights. One thing I remind myself: this season of young children is not going to last forever.
I’m a better mom when I have some company
I love playing one on one with my children….for a while. Then I really start to crave adult mental stimulation. I need some girlfriend conversation, some gym time, or even Instagram time (because you guys are my virtual friends!) to ease the loneliness. It makes me wonder how women on the frontier got by without anyone for miles and no digital connections. I’m an extravert and need to chatter away for energy. My boys do too – Mazen begs for playdates and Birch has loved some recent visits to KidsZone. ACAC was my life connection when Mazen was young. It wasn’t just a place to workout but my social outlet as well. Dropping down to one nap sometime soon will help tremendously with our availability. I need to make sure I schedule playdates and get to the gym more as we move into winter.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Love the title! Great post, too. Being a parent must be so hard! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Jamie says
Love this! I’m not a parent but I am just a happier person when I am in a sports bra and have delicious food too!
KathEats says
Yes!! Makes it easier to be healthy in general : )
Kate says
I could use some serious sports bra help! What are your favorites??
KathEats says
The Brooks Juno!!! It’s ideal for high impact, bra sized, and the straps are adjustable which means not only was it a great breastfeeding bra, but you can loosen or tighten depending on your impact (or the time of the month!) I have 4 of them and it’s the only one I wear.
Lindsay says
This Panache one is the best. I tell everyone about it!
https://www.barenecessities.com/product.aspx?pfid=Panache5021&cm_mmc=GLPA_NonBrand-_-Bra-_-Panache89-_-Panache5021&BillboardPopupEnabled=false&BorderfreeEnabled=False&color=Grey&amsk=w9a4hfr3k4&cmp=p1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjOrtBRCcARIsAEq4rW6zH_O891ws7UzzD8KrESe4Hzile_n_XByc11M1qUulGMTLj7QxcSoaAgGfEALw_wcB
Paige says
I love this post! You shared a screenshot of you & Delia (from Plenty) having a photo shoot the other day in your stories… I think it would be awesome for you to do a post about her, her background, & her Why for starting Plenty… or even some behind the scenes of her business. Since you have been raving about Plenty, the meals, & the convenience at this season of your life, I think it would so awesome to learn more about Plenty & founder!! ? just a thought…
KathEats says
Already underway!
Angie says
I find I’m a better parent when I take 15-20 min during nap time to read or play on my iPad. Just some quiet time before I tackle the to do list. Also, since my husband travels so much for work after drop off sometimes I go to the bagel shop and have a quiet breakfast.
Elyse says
I love this post! I’ve also lost my cooking mojo a bit since having a kid but we still eat healthy meals, they’re just simpler to prepare. I don’t like being bothered while cooking either and honestly I’d rather play or read a book. Kids are only little once and for such a short time. I also feel like exercise and taking some time for myself makes me a way better mom. Thanks for posting, I love your honesty!
Lindsey says
I feel this! I’m a better mom when my kids go to bed early in their own beds. When my husband is home, it gives us two hours to truly connect. He’s a medical resident, so when he’s working nights, it gives me time to just…be. And my kids are MUCH happier when they are well-rested, too. Two cheers for early bedtimes.
KathEats says
Totally agree!
Blair says
Oh wish they had a plenty local to us. We have tried all of the boxed type meals and it still so much time. Is or will there be a plenty in the DC metro area anytime soon??? I agree I am more likely to play when I am dressed comfortably. On the other hand, I need down time to reenergize, between work and all the extra activities, quiet time reenergizes me.
KathEats says
Probably not anytime soon – but I could see a future there!
Shanae says
This post is prompting me to think about what makes (or would make!) me a better mom by prioritizing. Sometimes what’s best for Momma serves as best for everyone. Thank you!