Days spent stumbling through a fog of exhaustion.
So tired, each time you open your mouth
to sing another nursery rhyme,
nausea creeps in.
You still keep giving it your all.
***
Work you did three weeks ago
still unpaid.
Out in the middle of winter
without a jacket,
because you forgot about yourself,
again.
At least you're wearing
shoes this time.
***
A minute to yourself.
All you want is to sit
and stare at the wall.
Then the cat meows at you.
Another being needs you.
***
How do you fill the tank
when the pump's out of order?
***
You hope tomorrow you'll feel better.
You wake tired again,
but you still show up.
***
Who do you report a sinking ship to
when everyone's in the same boat?
About the Creator
Sandy Gillman
I’m a mum to a toddler, just trying to get through the day. I like to write about the ups and downs of parenting. I’m not afraid to tell it like it is. I hope you’ll find something here to laugh, relate to, and maybe even learn from.
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Comments (17)
I remember those days. Excellent, especially the two questions.
Exhaustion is expressed so well here. Well done.
God I used to feel like that it brings back memories. Every mother I am sure has felt it. Your a brilliant writer 🦋💙🦋
I absolutely love the final stanza. It's so true when people rely on you for everything and you are caregiver for a family. Congrats on your honorable mention on the Leaderboard!
Wooohooooo congratulations on your Leaderboard placement! 🎉💖🎊🎉💖🎊
you know the last line is so intriguing...
I saw you on the leaderboard, Sandy! Congrats for the HM 🎉🎉
Oh, I remember those days...I had 4 kids from 1973-1980. I must have been insane. But I also remember so much joy and love...hang in there, Sandy!
Ah, the eternal question. Hurry, man the sails, hoist the rudder, drop the anchor, see the buoy or whatever, where is the crew...u gotta do it all. Great read Sandy...hugs.
That's a great question at the end, Sandy! I guess we should report to ourselves about the damages before the ship starts to sink, but when there's so much to take care of who has time for even that?! But maintenance is the heart of everything, I keep going through the same lesson, too.
The last verse nails it, big hugs but glad you are feeling better
I'm glad you're feeling better today! Hugs 2 you my friend!
I can relate! Have been there. Love the poem and despite its expression of pure fatigue I did smile on the line "at least you're wearing/shoes this time". Well done, you deserve some rest!
Don't worry, you'll get that day at the spa soon. Great job illustrating what it's like to be on empty. I felt every word. Hope you get some good rest soon.
Shout it to the universe and keep on rocking the boat. It should get better...but does it. sending rest and hugs your way.
I can relate! Family visiting I do way more than I do when it is just me and the hubby or a grandchild or two. It means visiting AND cooking, cleaning before they arrive and after they leave. Making up the spare room, which is also my office, etc. Take care of you now! Pamper yourself when you can.🥰
"How do you fill the tank when the pump's out of order?" Whoaaaa, that line was so deep. Sending you lots of love and hugs ❤️