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My husband was away and after a busy day I decided it would be fun to have “breakfast” for dinner.
After getting everything ready, I handed the boys their plates.
My almost three-year started screaming, “This isn’t the plate I want and the syrup doesn’t go there!”
He had a complete melt-down for the third time that day.
I lost it. I sat on the floor and started bawling my eyes out. Yes I admit, I started crying.
It wasn’t the fact that my son was screaming at the top of his lungs over a dumb plate {even though that didn’t help}, it was everything crashing together at that very moment.
Like most moms, I try to do it all. I work full-time from home with no childcare, I run the kids back and forth for activities, take care of the home, shopping, meals, bath time and work until mid-night almost every night.
The last few weeks I’ve become more and more stressed and I realized I needed to re-evaluate everything. I can’t keep doing this to myself. I was starting to get completely worn out.
My five-year sat down next to me on the floor, wrapped his arms around me and said, “Mom I love you. It’s going to be ok.”
At that moment, everything became clear for me.
I knew what I had to do.
I love working and I am quite proud of the business I have built, but I love being a mom more.
That night I decided I had to close one of my doors. It was a tough decision but it wasn’t a good fit for where I am in my life right now and it created more stress than I needed.
I don’t like letting people down, but more importantly I don’t like letting my children down.
It was a hard decision, but the right decision for me and my family.
Sometimes we have to make these difficult decisions in order to move forward.
Right now I need to focus on my boys, the business I am building and the exciting projects that are in the works.
As I sat there on the floor with my son, I held him and told him, “I know it’s going to be alright because I have you by my side.”
He looked up at me with his big blue eyes and his sweet little smile. He leaned over and gave me a kiss and wrapped his arms around me.
At that moment I felt at peace and knew what I was doing was the right thing.
{ 105 comments… read them below or add one }
Making tough decisions like that is never easy. I hope that you can find the peace that you need. Your oldest son sounds like such a sweet boy!
Kmama´s last [type] ..Missing
Thanks
Yes I feel better and it was the right thing to do. My son is so sweet…and I’ll never forget what he did for me that night. 
The sacrifices we have to make as moms can be so hard. I hope your life gets a little less stressful.
Evonne´s last [type] ..Mean girls
Thank you! Even though I like to stay busy, sometimes I realize I just need to slow down a bit.
Oh Tina, I’m keeping you in my thoughts today. The whole work/life balance thing is so difficult – sometimes impossible.
I know you’ll do what’s right – my hope for you is that you feel peace in your decision.
Hugs, hugs, and more hugs.
Ryan (The Woven Moments)´s last [type] ..Nothin’s Burning
Thanks Ryan! It is super hard and when something starts to consume me more than I can handle, well that’s when its time to say good-bye unfortunately. But I do feel better and just going to move forward
im so proud of you.
Devan @ Accustomed Chaos´s last [type] ..Having 2 Daughters & a Son… I Want This To Change
Thanks Devan!
Oh, honey. So sorry.
Cecily´s last [type] ..One in Four: Domestic Violence Awarness Month
Thanks Cecily! It was hard but I guess that’s life right? I feel better today
Tina, first, what a wonderful and compassionate young man you are raising. I know that I have also found myself on that kitchen floor. I don’t know why we, as moms, feel we must take on so much, but you are not alone in that feeling of being overwhelmed. I wish you the best of luck in your decision and I am sure that life will feel oh so much better when you take on only what you can handle.
Thank you Jacki. You are so right and I have to say I am so impressed with my little guy
Oh, whew! When I saw the title and began reading, I said to myself “Oh no! Please let it not be Girls Lunch Out!” I’m relieved that you’re still working on that, because I love it.
I know how you feel about juggling too much, though. I work full-time, too, outside the home, and I often spend my weeknights as a big ball of stress, teetering on the edge of burnout. But I don’t see anything I can cut out–chores/errands, being a mom, being a blogger. I spend my lunchbreaks blogging or running errands, I cram as much as possible into weekends. Hoping my life calms down before Jackson’s old enough to understand and comment on my stress.
I loved this line especially & will carry it with me: “I don’t like letting people down, but more importantly I don’t like letting my children down.”
You’re a great mother & you’re doing a great job with your projects, too, as far as I can tell.
Jaime´s last [type] ..Wordless Wednesday: Yo Gabba Gabba Live
Oh my no way! Girls Lunch Out is my baby
Tina, I love this post. And, what I especially love is the glimpse into your family that shows what an AMAZING job you are doing parenting your children for your little boy to be so loving and compassionate with you. You are rocking it at raising your kids and running a thriving business and making the tough decisions that any good business-woman has to make along the way. To that, I say Cheers!
Thank you Shannon, that means a lot. Sometimes we have to make hard decisions just to move forward and this was the right one for me
It’s not always easy, but when you feel stressed and you KNOW that something is being sacrificed…especially when it’s the children, you need to make a decision. Quite honestly, when you can no longer manage everything you are working on, it’s not one thing that suffers, it’s everything. So, it’s better to focus your efforts on a few great things than lots of not so great things.
You made the right decision. As that door closes behind you, you’ll realize what a relief it was.
xo
Sheila @ Pieces of a Mom´s last [type] ..Wordless Wednesday: Scary Monsters
You are right on Sheila!
Oh girl. I was at this point this past summer.
And had to quit my main job b/c it was taking too much out of me and not leaving much left for my boys. And I realized it wasn’t worth it.
shell´s last [type] ..Pour Your Heart Out: A Frightening Parenting Moment
Yes that’s what I have come to. In the end, my boys are everything to me and need to come first
I’m sorry, Tina! That feeling is awful, but you know what? You having that moment was good in so many ways, too.
Here’s to a happy turn of events!
liz´s last [type] ..Little Changes, Big Results
Sometimes it takes a good cry to see the light, haha.
You’re making me cry right now.
How can you be so YOUNG and know what’s important, already..before it’s too late?
I am beyond impressed.
You are beautiful.
Alexandra´s last [type] ..How Kids Can Pick Out Good Games To Play
Thanks Alexandra that means so much. I never want to regret this time when my kids were so little. If something isn’t a good fit for me well then it’s time to move on. Kids are only little for so long
Tina, you’re making the right decision. And good for you for knowing when you’ve had enough and acting on it! I’ve been saying no to lots of things lately. I work full-time outside the home and just feel like I can’t keep up. We have to make decisions that are best for our families. They may not be easy or fun decisions but they are for the best in the long run.
((hugs))
molly´s last [type] ..I’m a Sluiter Nation Recruit!
Yes you are right. Every family and situation is different. It wasn’t a good fit for me anymore and after wrestling with the idea for awhile I decided it was time to move on. But I feel good
Oh girl you know I’ve been making these hard decisions since my divorce started. It’s been hard setting things aside and making peace that you’ve outgrown them or they no longer fit with where you are in your life. It’s totally normal, people/activities/groups/events/things/whatever will come and go as we move on with life. Knowing that and accepting it, makes me not feel guility for letting people/things go. I’ve only just realized this myself right before I was going to have a nervous breakdown this year. I’m proud of you!
Chrissy´s last [type] ..Mama’s Question of the Week: What are your favorite kids’ Halloween costume ideas?
Awe Chrissy I understand. You are right…sometimes things aren’t a good fit anymore for us. I’m glad I recognized it and hopefully good things will come from that. Thinking of you
Being a working mom is hard work. It’s even harder when you work from home and still have to watch the kids. I know all about this. I work inside the home and my husband works outside the home. And there are days when I feel like I’m going insane. Shoot, there have been days when I’ve completely lost it.
And you’re right, we have make the choice to re-evaluate the situation and decide what needs to be changed. I’ve slowed down some and although I get overwhelmed it’s not to the degree that it was before. Hope things continue to look up for you all.
YUMMommy´s last [type] ..Tell Us Something Good: Trip Mama
Yes it’s important to slow down once in awhile. I realized I couldn’t do what I was doing…just wasn’t working anymore. And you are right working from home is so hard but a blessing too
Oh how I’ve been there! Sounds like you are getting it figured out. Hang in there!
Minivan Mama´s last [type] ..Endless Seasons
Thanks…I feel good with my decision!
I’m so nervous/excited for you! I know it’s tough to make these decisions, but in the long run they are the best for us!
I recently made some bigger changes to my business that will enable me to work more efficiently thus spend more time with my family. I’m excited to start seeing the affects of the changes…can’t wait!
Jessica´s last [type] ..Independence – Pour Your Heart Out with Things I Can’t Say
Good for you Jess…that’s awesome that you made that decision. Feels good doesn’t it?!?
I hear your every word Tina!! You are an amazing Mama and I’m sure you feel a huge weight lifted off your shoulders.
I have a few difficult decisions I’m tackling at the moment for some of the exact same reasons in this post. You are a true inspiration, my friend.
xo
Thanks Corine for always being there for me. You are a true friend. I hope it all works out for you too…it’s tough but once you make the decision that is right for you it just falls into place.
You are so wise! It will be wonderful to see what you are lead to do and how you find balance.
JDaniel4′s Mom´s last [type] ..Halloween Zucchini Casserole Recipe for Mummy
It’s not easy and it’s always a constant battle but I am trying to find a better balance for myself.
This is a genuinely true post that brought tears to my eyes. I know exactly what you are talking about because I’ve been in your situation. You did what was most important and for that you are a brilliant women and loving mother. Sending you HUGS!!
Thanks Chrissy
Yep it was time to move on…excited to see what the future holds 
I can so relate and I work outside the home. The meltdowns are soooo hard for me. I feel like such a failure and I am NO WHERE as busy, successful or amazing as you are.
I hope the door you closed allows you the time you really want with your amazing boys.
Kir´s last [type] ..Banishing Ghosts
Girl you stop it. You are amazing and wonderful….and look at everything you are doing and accomplishing. It’s not easy I know…I feel like I can slightly breathe again
I’m sorry you are going through this. We’ve all had our sit down on the floor and cry about the overwhelming feeling that sometimes takes hold during motherhood. I had them about once every three months for the past 2 years ( my husband was working/living out of state 5 days a week). It’s hard. Life is a little less overwhelming at the moment but the clarity came in the prioritizing. You are amazing, Tina. *HUG* Hang in there mama, it gets easier. XO
Truthful Mommy´s last [type] ..Minivan Mommies ~Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night
I think we all need a good cry on the floor once in awhile. For me it makes me feel better and I feel like I can see things better. Thanks
Being a working mom kicks my butt on a daily basis. Life can get crazy overwhelming. I’m so glad you son stepped in. Funny how they can totally help us gain perspective.
Cam | Bibs & Baubles´s last [type] ..Target Does it Again – Denizen Review
You are so right. Sitting next to him on the floor, changed me. I know it sounds crazy but that moment made me look at things differently.
Oh my, this is gorgeous, transparent and true,
I love the openness, and I admire that you were able to make a choice.
And the by your side line? I cried. True story.
Galit Breen´s last [type] ..Exclusion and Kindness and Salted Caramel Mochas
I wasn’t going to put this out there but then I thought, ‘there has to be other women/mothers that feel the same way’. And wow was I blown away with the support. Thank you so much for the lovely comment, means a lot!
Tina,
HUGS, friend. Hang in there. It sounds like you have a great head on your shoulders and I have a feeling this will all work out. You are in my thoughts.
xo
Erin Margolin´s last [type] ..In the Dark of Night
Thanks Erin! I feel good with the decision and excited for the future. We’ll see what happens
So sorry that you had such a rough moment, but it brought you an AHA moment, too. Sending you many hugs. I think you are doing what is right for you and your family right now. And you know, we all have those tear-filled meltdown moments, and it’s OK, we’re human, too.
Andrea´s last [type] ..A Wordful Wednesday
Yes perfectly said, it literally brought me to my “AHA” moment, and so glad it did!
Our lives are about seasons and timing …
you live in the moment that you create, so making sure it is one you look back on with pride and with love …
thats important.
You are doing a great job Tina, look forward to seeing you again soon xxx
By Word of Mouth Musings´s last [type] ..Breast cancer. Think Pink. Wordy Wordless Wednesday.
That’s exactly it. I want to look back and not regret my time with the boys. I try to do it all and I am just now realizing it’s ok that I can’t. I’m human right ?!? Thanks for the support!
Sometimes the hardest moment ends up bringing the most clarity. I have chills over what a beautiful, empathic child you are raising. However you made/make your decision, knowing that your boys and family are number 1 will help you stay on course.
Missy | Literal Mom´s last [type] ..Dear Little Iggy
I was really blown away by my 5 yr old. He is such a sweet boy and at that moment it literally changed me. I will never forget it. Sometimes we need a little cry to see clearer
My son has just started having melt downs… it’s terrible and I don’t know what to do about it or how to fix them. He just starts crying at the sitters house & doesn’t stop.
I’m happy that you’re doing what’s best for you and your family. I think in the end you’ll all be happier.
Jackie´s last [type] ..Mom Fail?
Yes my 2 yr old has about 5 melt-downs a day. I just try to step away let him get through it and then try and talk to him. Not easy…hoping this phase ends soon!
Oh Tina, you know I understand. I am so proud of you for taking steps that you needed to- you have to put your family first. I cannot wait to see all the great things to come from you! xoxo
Ashley´s last [type] ..Waiting
Ashley, thank you for always being there for me…I know you are only a Skype away! lol
Oh Tina.
I am right there with you. I feel like you’re inside my head, writing this piece.
I’m sorry that your life has gotten to the point where tough choices need to be made. But , it’s always our kids that help us see things more clearly.
I wish you all the best and hope you’re at peace with your decision. Many hugs to you!
gigi´s last [type] ..Omega-3s To The Rescue!
Beaming love to you. So much.
Dresden´s last [type] ..my favorite things: October edition
Yes I am…it was a hard one but sitting with my son on the floor changed the way I looked at things. I feel good today and excited for what the future holds. I hope everything works out for you too….it’s crazy what us women take on!
I know exactly how you feel! I work full time from home and part-time as a teacher, as well as dealing with all the “house” stuff and “kid” stuff. And I found myself sobbing at my computer this morning (this has happened quite often, in fact). I know I have too much on my plate, but there’s no alternative. I’m separated from my girls’ (let’s be honest) deadbeat dad (OK, that’s probably unfair: he’s a good dad, but he’s unreliable, unemployed (and unemployable, I suspect) and unstable. Oh, and he hates me) and have huge debts, meaning I have no choice but to sacrifice my time with my girls and work instead. They’re older now (9.5 and 7.5) but it’s still hard – I have to work weekends so their dad does most of the “fun” stuff whilst I get laundry, homework, school supplies and shouting (clean your room! hurry up! finish your soup!), I’m exhausted, irritable, impatient… not to mention bitter (at my ex leaving) and frustrated and horribly lonely. I love my girls more than anything, but I know I’ll regret all the time I’ve had to spend working instead of playing with them. But what can I do? I have no family living nearby, no money for professional help, no friends with enough free time to be able to help…
I hope you find peace with whatever decision you’ve made!
Courage!
Kirsty´s last [type] ..How I plan to win the Nobel Prize for Physics (or something)
Well first you should be proud of yourself for everything you are doing for them. You have no choice and are doing the best you can. One day when they are older, they will see all of the scarifies you made for them…and this in return will make them strong, independent women. Parenting is hard enough on its own, then throw in work, household chores, and everything else…it’s quite overwhelming at times. Hang in there and be proud of what you are doing. Big XOXO!
wow, good for you! I think that feeling of “peace,” even though it usually includes some anxiety, is the definitive sign that you are doing the right thing. good luck.
wendy @ mama one to three´s last [type] ..Inspiration Looks Like This
yes you are right. After a few days, I feel great with my decision
This is freaky because I have this exact post in my head waiting to be written. I feel like everything boiled over about 2 weeks ago and I had to make a choice in order to focus on myself and my family. So I definitely get it. And I am glad I did though because I have felt happier in the last 2 weeks than I have in a long, long time. I feel like I should pinch myself but if I’m dreaming, I don’t want to wake up
Denise´s last [type] ..She’s Already Comparing Herself
Good for you! It’s good to follow your heart, isn’t it?!?
Sometimes we just have to make those decisions. In the end, things always work out for the best.
Good luck!
Courtney @ The Mommy Matters´s last [type] ..Pain is Pain (no matter how long you’ve endured it)
You are right! The unknown is scary but looking back I feel peace with my decision.
I could have written this post myself. I hear you sista! You’re listening to your instincts and taking a step back to realize what is truly important. Way to go.
Maria @amotherworld´s last [type] ..My Husband Doesn’t Help Me Around the House
Yes for once I am doing this and it feels good! I am very happy with my decision
Unfortunately, I’ll well aware of those meldowns. I have them often. Very often. Good luck.
Michelle Maskaly´s last [type] ..Fall Foliage in the Adirondacks: Wordless Wednesday
Sometimes melt-downs make us see clearer…and a good cry always feels good
Making a decision to do something new usually involves giving up something else. That’s what makes it hard—there’s a loss to deal with as well as the uncertainly of the future. We resist change when the number of Positive things in our lives is equal to the number of Negative things. Comparing these Positives and Negatives objectively helps us to move forward.
Lori´s last [type] ..How to Make Him Fall in Love With You
Wow -that’s what I always call “going with your gut”! It’s seldom wrong and I’m glad you have peace with your decision!
Ann´s last [type] ..Pork with Caribbean Rub & Mango Salsa
I’m sorry that such an epiphany had to start with tears, but it sounds like your little guy just helped you to see exactly what you needed at exactly the right moment. Sometimes I think we (generalizing) make tough decisions harder by overthinking them. Of COURSE you don’t want to let people down; that’s part of what makes you so successful, but no one can do it all, all the time. Good luck!
It’s always hard to make the really important decisions. I bet you are feeling tons better since you made it though.
Congrats and good luck!
JamieAnne´s last [type] ..My life as Band Mom….
Yes I do feel so much better!
<3 I always tell everyone I am a mom first blogger second, so if work ever gets in the way I'll have to scale back. We have a lot in common, and even through other posts you put up you can see the love you have for your boys and your family. I know it must have been tough for you to give something up, but I hope you don't feel like you've let anyone down. Your kids will be happier for it and hopefully so will you!! xoxoxo Hang in there momma and remember you have a lot of people in similar shoes standing right behind you to hold you up when you think you might fall.
Jennifer B.´s last [type] ..Is Your Home as Safe as You Think? {Guest Post}
Thank you Jen…you are such a great friend
All for our children, right? You know what’s best and you are brave to do the right thing! Good luck with it.
MommaKiss´s last [type] ..Awareness
It’s so hard to remember we can’t do it all. Often we need a meltdown to remind us of this. You’re a great mom. Give yourself credit!
Becca Bernstein´s last [type] ..Holiday Card Etiquette 101
I know crazy isn’t it. A good cry always helps, lol. I feel good with the decision and excited to see what the future holds.
I’m so proud of you. Sometimes, a meltdown is the best thing we can have. In that time of being raw, you see yourself most clearly.
Lisa Frame´s last [type] ..Halloween Safety–What to take!
You are so right. Having that moment and sitting with my son changed it all for me…for the better
Oh girl. Making those hard decisions is tough, but it helps when you know it’s for the oh-so-right reasons.
Amanda @ High Impact Mom´s last [type] ..Wordless Wednesday: Best. Wedding. Ever.
You are right. I knew it was time unfortunately. But I am happy with my decision and moving on. Already have new things to look forward to
I know how this feels. We do try to do too much. I work outside the home, which makes everything even harder to balance. What are you doing to ease the stress? Closing the door, does that mean you’re not going to work? I wish I had that option, but I don’t. I have to work in order to pay the bills. I’m sorry you feel this way. Hell, I’m sorry I feel this way. I hope it gets better for you soon! (Your son is so sweet for saying that!)
Eve´s last [type] ..Week in My Life: Wednesday
I know it’s really tough. Hang in there…I completely understand XOXO
I let myself cry today in the car, with 2 of the kids. We all cried. They think we cried because we missed the train (that was my wrong plate with syrup on the wrong side). But, oh. So much more.
Good for you in that you’re making decisions best for your family, Tina!
julie/just precious´s last [type] ..The California Wine Club, a discount, and a giveaway
Awe Julie I completely understand. Sometimes we need that good cry to see clearer. I am just happy I finally followed my heart, I feel a lot better. Hope your cry helped you too
I’m sorry you had a bad day… but I’m so happy you cried and let it all out. We can’t open a new door before we close the old one!
Katja of Skimbaco´s last [type] ..Play That Theme Song
You are so right…love this! Already I am starting to see a few doors open but approaching slowly
Awwww your son sounds like the sweetest little man ever. Making decisions like that is never easy but it sounds like for you, you have made the right one. ((((()))))’s
Shana D´s last [type] ..Wordless Wednesday-Flowers a bloomin
I know, kids can really surprise us. It was a moment I won’t forget and I am glad I had it. I can now move into the direction I want
Good for you for making the decision not to live in a state of chaos. I now how hard it must have been but you can’t be everything to everyone all the time, plain and simple. Frankly, I can’t believe you were able to manage as long as you did with no help! Best wishes, xo
Glamamom´s last [type] ..YOOOOOOOOO GABBA GABBA LIVE
I know it was a bit crazy…when it started to get unbalanced had to let the one thing go that was pushing me over.
I find myself over-volunteering every school year…to the point of massive burn out by December. It’s very hard for us SAHM’s to just say “No”…everyone seems to think that since I don’t work outside the house that I have hours to kill each day. LOL not so true…most days I’m struggling to keep up with the kids, the house and all the extra-schtuff…let alone have any “me” time. It’s been awhile since I’ve sat on the front porch bawling but I know its hanging out there waiting in the shadows for the cracks to develop
Good for you in letting go and realizing you can’t do it all, all the time!
Jennifer G´s last [type] ..C25K—welcome to Gridley!
Loved this post the FIRST time I read it. Loved it even more this time. Thank you for linking up with #ShowYourWork!
Ryan (The Woven Moments)´s last [type] ..SHOW YOUR WORK!
Good for you for choosing your sanity! It can be a hard decision to make, but it sounds like you made the right one. Here’s hoping you find peace and contentment now that the “hard part” is over! (Visiting from The Woven Moments)
Abby´s last [type] ..Friday Grab Bag
This can’t have been an easy decision to make. I think that women keep getting this message that we can do it all: be amazing moms, and perfect housekeepers, and career-driven, and health-conscious…but eventually, something has to give. It’s strong of you to make that decision now, on your own terms!
Stephanie´s last [type] ..I’m Sorry, Justin Timberlake
I know that wasn’t an easy decision to make, but it definitely sounds like the right one for now.
Krystyn´s last [type] ..Mommy and Me Monday | Happy Halloween (the 89th ed)
I read this and felt like I could be reading about myself. It’s so hard to juggle, and I find that there are times that working from home is harder for me than when I worked in an office. At least when I left home to go to work, there was separation, and I wasn’t seeing piles of laundry or dishes that needed to get done while I was working on a project. But, like you, I am the chief kid caretaker. So it’s something I just try to deal with. It’s great that you were able to let something go. It feels soooo good to let something go.