Rainy days should be craft days

When the weather becomes chilly and unpleasant, those days should be dedicated to crafting. I envision opening the window to let in the cold breeze, with the sound of rain in the background, while I, dressed in my coziest attire, make a coffee and set up the table for some projects.

Instead, regardless of rain, sun, snow, or wind, I drag myself out of bed and get ready for the day. Before leaving the house, I've not only prepared myself but also my husband and four children. I've dealt with missing clothes, forms needing signatures, dogs eager to go outside, and a cat demanding breakfast. Once I arrive at work, I search the yard for mushrooms, which seem to cover the ground. They aren't poisonous, but they're not something I want children to snack on.

Before the first child arrives, my room is opened and set up, mushrooms have been picked, messages have been sent out, and I'm rushing to complete a last-minute idea I just had.

The day is spent caring for and managing toddlers, from diapers to bites, activities to cuddles. By the time 3:30 rolls around and I'm getting back into my car to head home, my hair is a mess, and I'm covered in snot, drool, and who knows what else.

The 30-minute drive home helps calm the overstimulation, and I'm ready to face whatever disaster or excitement awaits me. I open the front door, and the dogs are going wild, eager for freedom. Dinner is usually still frozen, and there's a new pile of dishes and laundry that seem to appear out of nowhere.

Throughout the week, I usually only get an hour or two each night to craft before I crash and start the routine again the next day. It's a relentless cycle that's hard to break. Apparently, I can't quit my job because we need it to survive like responsible adults, but I can't craft because I'm too exhausted. So, on days like today, when the weather is cool and rainy, I eagerly count down the hours until I'm home so I can finally do what I love.