This family is living life to its fullest, but sometimes that means that we get behind on a few things. The things that we seem to let go are the laundry and the dishes. Our house currently is a disaster because we have been so busy. The weather has been great, and we have been staying outside for longer periods of time. My husband and I are also trying to make connections in our church, and we both want time to socialize apart from the family. E is in school right now, and that means that his time is limited. So the cleaning has taken a back seat, but now I can’t take it anymore!

What’s a mom to do?

What do you do? I called my dad. There is no shame in calling in the reserves when you need help! When he comes for a visit, he really just entertains the kids so I can run around the house getting things done. I can do the cleaning myself, but the kids won’t tolerate me cleaning all day long and not paying attention to them. That is where my dad comes in. Just having a visit from him is enough excitement for the kids. He is funny and laughs a lot with them. He is also willing and able to change diapers, work on the potty, feed the kids, and discipline them if need be – all without prompting.

But secretly I call on my dad because I need adult interaction! I have been out of the house so much in search of other adults to talk to. Now I have to be inside to clean, so I need someone to keep my company. I know that my dad understands that without me telling him anything. He needs a change in his routine, too, sometimes. When he visits us, I also feed him a homemade meal and keep him company.

I love how I don’t have to tell my dad what I need. He just understands me. It feels good to let my daddy take care of me once in a while. He will always be my daddy, and, I guess, I will always be his little girl no matter how old I get!