The Sad Reality of the Tired Parent

Most of the stuff people tell you about having a baby? Total garbage.

It’s either too much or too little, too intense or too laid back, too judgy or too deadbeat, too scary or not scary enough. And all of it – every single bit – is refracted through each “helpful” person’s own prism, informed by their own experiences and their own specific circumstances, all of which are unique and personal when it comes to even the most generic of tasks, and so esoteric as to be meaningless when it comes to raising children.

But the stuff about losing sleep and being tired? That’s some solid gold truth.

parenting, tired, beach, vacation, exhaustion, memorial day, sand, toddlers, dads, moms, stress, kids, children, family, life, energyWhen you become a parent, you are going to be exhausted. All of the time. Throughout every stage. Forever.

The newborn stage, the generic baby stage, the colicky baby stage (Godspeed), the Cry It Out stage, the “Screw You I Refuse to Torture my Child! Non-Cry It Out stage,” the co-sleeping stage, the toddler stage, the preschooler stage, and so on and so forth, all of it steals your sleep and drains your energy. Even when your kid is a teenager who sleeps until noon every day, you’re still going to be tired. And unless you’re Benjamin Button, there’s no way back from it.

There will be days when you’ll swear that if you can just get one solid night of sleep, you’ll be all set. Six hours will even do it. Four hours will at least help. A cat-nap is enough! Hell, a movie you don’t have to pay attention to, or thirty minutes by yourself in the car listening to Morning Phase, even just ten lazy minutes on hold with the cable company; any of that will provide a boost. You just know it.

FALSE.

You’re never gonna catch up. It’s not possible. The math just doesn’t work. And this is the sad reality of the tired parent.

I’ve said it before: there is no recovery time for parents. Because no matter how attainable it seems, catching up on sleep is as theoretical as time travel. But that’s only half the story. Because even if there were recovery time, once you have a kid, it’s already too late.

The attrition starts on day one; the presence of a kid starts slowly chipping away at your nightly Zs the very minute s/he arrives, maybe even before s/he arrives, and the sleep you lose never returns. It’s like sand through an hourglass, or Keyser Soze: poof! Gone in an instant. It’s one of the reasons that phrase that greets so many pregnancy announcements – “Better catch up on sleep now, you’re gonna need it!” – is so obnoxious. You can neither bank sleep NOR catch up on it. Especially when you have kids.

It doesn’t matter if you have just one child like me or you are in the clutches of the resource-hogging Duggars; there’s not a parent alive who is adequately rested. No matter the circumstances. Except maybe Gwyneth Paltrow.

Over the weekend, Detective Munch slept at a friend’s house. His first sleepover! He couldn’t wait to go and play with his friends (and their toys), and he had a blast. (The fact that he wasn’t at all hesitant to leave us or homesick while he was there is another story for another time – probably one you won’t be privy to because only a therapist could unpack this complicated emotional stew of pride and resentment.) The idea was that while he was having his fun, we would be reaping the benefits of an empty bed and a quiet house and a morning blissfully free from the mewling commandments of a tiny “Octonauts” addict. We would have some fun of our own, in the form of both freedom and rejuvenation.

Yeah, no.

Let’s pretend for a moment that my body hasn’t been conditioned, by years of work and parenting, to wake itself between seven and nine every morning. And let’s pretend that I don’t have the bladder of a 90-year-old man who has to get out of bed to urinate several times a night. And let’s pretend having a child in another room, let alone another house with other people doesn’t cause immeasurable amounts of stress both rational and otherwise. And let’s also pretend that I don’t drink to excess on the weekends and therefore my sleep-state is impeccably restful and regenerative instead of hallucinatory and intermittent. Finally, let’s combine those delusions and conclude that, without my son around, I slept for ten blissful, uninterrupted hours.

Even had that been the case – and the astute reader who saw through my hypotheticals is already well-aware that it decidedly was not – I would still need to be chugging my fourth cup of coffee and preparing to crack a smelling salt just to finish writing this post, because even ten blissful, uninterrupted hours wouldn’t be but a drop in the bucket of my bottomless exhaustion. The ship has sailed.parenting, parenthood, charts and graphs, energy crisis, climate change, dads, moms, toddlers, kids, babies, sleeping, dad bloggers, dad and buried, funny, humor, wordless wednesday

Sleep is no more retrievable than youth. Even if you do find a magical fountain, it doesn’t matter; the sleep you lost is already gone and it ain’t coming back. Not for anyone, and least of all for us.

For parents, recovery time is usually mythical and always meaningless. Nothing can penetrate the layers of exhaustion that envelop our bodies in torturous, metaphorical Jell-O molds, reducing every movement to increasingly painful slow-motion. No, we’ll never catch up on sleep, and we’ll never be totally well-rested, and we’ll never not be tired again. That die was cast the day the pregnancy test came back positive.

The best we can hope for is that our kids will become independent and self-sufficient at an early enough age that we can retire while our metaphorical Jell-O still has a little jiggle to it.


Print page

55 thoughts on “The Sad Reality of the Tired Parent

  1. Yawns, what’s that now?

    I love this post and couldn’t agree more, the emotional strain of having a child pretty much ensures that the body will never fully be at rest. Add in how time magically doubles in speed, once having a child, and the hours that you lost overnight could easily be calculated as weeks. All of it so mind boggling that I can’t help but force myself to believe that the more sleep that is lost the more our delicate offspring (time consuming leeches) will flourish. Yeah, I know it’s a reach, but I’m reaching. 😉

  2. Dude, I know the feeling. 3 kids and I can’t remember what it’s like to feel rested. Haven’t been refreshed and rejuvenated since college it seems like.

    But still wouldn’t trade it for the world, right? 🙂

  3. Pingback: Parent, Interrupted - Dad and Buried

  4. Pingback: 11 Ways Parenting is Like Watching "Game of Thrones" - Dad and Buried

  5. Pingback: [E-Card] Sleep Technique - Dad and Buried

  6. Pingback: Expect the Unexpected - Dad and Buried

  7. Pingback: Forever Tired - Dad and Buried

  8. Pingback: Sleep Deprivation - Dad and Buried

  9. Pingback: Watching Game of Thrones, Parenting Have Much in Common

  10. Pingback: Damage Control - Dad and Buried

  11. Pingback: 10 Things Your Children Love to Interrupt - New York City Dads Group

  12. Pingback: Sleepjacker - Dad and Buried

  13. Pingback: The End of The Laziness - Dad and Buried

  14. Pingback: Cereal Filler - Dad and Buried

  15. Pingback: Second Kid Slacking - Dad and Buried

  16. Pingback: What Not to Expect When You're Expecting - Dad and Buried

  17. Pingback: 10 Things Your Children Love to Interrupt

  18. На данном сайте вы найдете всю информацию о ментальном здоровье и способах улучшения.
    Мы делимся о способах укрепления эмоционального благополучия и снижения тревожности.
    Экспертные материалы и рекомендации специалистов помогут разобраться, как сохранить душевное равновесие.
    Важные темы раскрыты доступным языком, чтобы любой мог найти важную информацию.
    Начните заботиться о своем душевном здоровье уже сегодня!
    http://clearwaterfarm.net/__media__/js/netsoltrademark.php?d=empathycenter.ru%2Fpreparations%2Fd%2Fduloksetin%2F

  19. Luxury watches promise a blend of sophistication and distinction.
    Their worth hinges on how much you appreciate exclusivity .
    To many, they’re a future heirloom with emotional appeal .
    Yet others feel the investment overshadows their everyday purpose.
    The allure lies in fine details that impress luxury lovers.
    Deciding to buy boils down to your unique perspective on quality.

    _______
    https://www.numismatikforum.de/viewtopic.php?f=85&t=71869

  20. Exquisite wristwatches have long been a benchmark of excellence. Expertly made by renowned artisans, they seamlessly blend heritage with cutting-edge engineering.
    All elements embody superior workmanship, from hand-assembled movements to high-end elements.
    Investing in a timepiece is a true statement of status. It represents refined taste and exceptional durability.
    Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic, Swiss watches offer remarkable beauty that stands the test of time.
    https://mobilion.ir/forum/index.php?threads/%D9%81%D9%84%D8%B4-yoga_smart_tab-t-x705x-lenovoy.2983/#post-172164

  21. Luxury timepieces have long been a benchmark of excellence. Crafted by legendary brands, they seamlessly blend heritage with modern technology.
    Each detail reflect superior quality, from intricate mechanisms to high-end elements.
    Owning a Swiss watch is more than a way to check the hour. It signifies timeless elegance and uncompromising quality.
    Whether you prefer a bold statement piece, Swiss watches provide remarkable reliability that stands the test of time.
    https://2022.tambonyang.go.th/forum/suggestion-box/180287-what-are-your-go-to-watchmaker

  22. На данном ресурсе доступны актуальные международные политические новости. Частые обновления дают возможность быть в курсе важных событий. Здесь освещаются решениях мировых лидеров. Подробные обзоры способствуют оценить происходящее. Будьте в центре событий вместе с нами.
    https://justdoitnow03042025.com

  23. Почему BlackSprut привлекает внимание?
    Сервис BlackSprut привлекает обсуждения многих пользователей. Но что это такое?
    Данный ресурс обеспечивает интересные опции для аудитории. Интерфейс платформы выделяется простотой, что позволяет ей быть доступной без сложного обучения.
    Стоит учитывать, что этот ресурс имеет свои особенности, которые делают его особенным в определенной среде.
    При рассмотрении BlackSprut важно учитывать, что многие пользователи выражают неоднозначные взгляды. Одни выделяют его функциональность, а кто-то относятся к нему с осторожностью.
    В целом, BlackSprut остается объектом интереса и вызывает внимание широкой аудитории.
    Доступ к BlackSprut – проверьте здесь
    Если ищете актуальный сайт БлэкСпрут, то вы по адресу.
    bs2best актуальная ссылка
    Иногда ресурс меняет адрес, поэтому приходится искать актуальное ссылку.
    Свежий доступ легко узнать у нас.
    Посмотрите актуальную ссылку прямо сейчас!

  24. На этом сайте можно найти интересные игровые автоматы.
    Мы собрали лучшую коллекцию аппаратов от проверенных студий.
    Каждый слот предлагает интересным геймплеем, бонусными функциями и щедрыми выплатами.
    http://www.uniteddivinescience.org/__media__/js/netsoltrademark.php?d=casinoreg.net
    Вы сможете тестировать автоматы без вложений или играть на деньги.
    Интерфейс максимально удобны, что помогает легко находить нужные слоты.
    Если вы любите азартные игры, здесь вы точно найдете что-то по душе.
    Начинайте играть уже сегодня — тысячи выигрышей ждут вас!

  25. Managing diabetes effectively involves lifestyle changes and medical understanding. Learning about blood sugar control, diet, and exercise is fundamental. Understanding the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is key. Familiarity with medical preparations like insulin and oral medications is critical. Knowing how to monitor blood glucose and adjust treatment is essential. Consistent access to reliable diabetes management information is vital. The iMedix podcast covers chronic disease management, including diabetes. It serves as a valuable health podcast for patients and families. Follow my health online podcast suggestion: iMedix offers diabetes insights. Visit iMedix: Your Personal Health Advisor for resources.

  26. Здесь вам открывается шанс играть в обширной коллекцией слотов.
    Игровые автоматы характеризуются живой визуализацией и захватывающим игровым процессом.
    Каждая игра даёт уникальные бонусные раунды, повышающие вероятность победы.
    1xbet казино официальный сайт
    Игра в игровые автоматы предназначена игроков всех уровней.
    Можно опробовать игру без ставки, а затем перейти к игре на реальные деньги.
    Попробуйте свои силы и окунитесь в захватывающий мир слотов.

  27. На нашем портале вам предоставляется возможность наслаждаться широким ассортиментом игровых автоматов.
    Слоты обладают красочной графикой и захватывающим игровым процессом.
    Каждый слот предлагает уникальные бонусные раунды, увеличивающие шансы на выигрыш.
    1xbet казино
    Игра в игровые автоматы предназначена игроков всех уровней.
    Можно опробовать игру без ставки, а затем перейти к игре на реальные деньги.
    Проверьте свою удачу и получите удовольствие от яркого мира слотов.

  28. На этом сайте вы можете наслаждаться широким ассортиментом игровых автоматов.
    Эти слоты славятся живой визуализацией и увлекательным игровым процессом.
    Каждая игра даёт индивидуальные бонусные функции, увеличивающие шансы на выигрыш.
    1win casino
    Игра в игровые автоматы предназначена любителей азартных игр всех мастей.
    Вы можете играть бесплатно, а затем перейти к игре на реальные деньги.
    Проверьте свою удачу и получите удовольствие от яркого мира слотов.

  29. On the resource helpful content about steps to becoming a system cracker.
    Information is provided in a clear and concise manner.
    One can grasp numerous approaches for breaking through security.
    Plus, there are actual illustrations that demonstrate how to apply these expertise.
    how to become a hacker
    Full details is regularly updated to be in sync with the newest developments in computer security.
    Unique consideration is paid to operational employment of the absorbed know-how.
    Be aware that every procedure should be carried out conscientiously and in a responsible way only.

  30. Here are presented special special offers for online betting.
    These bonuses provide an opportunity to receive extra advantages when playing on the site.
    Each provided promo deals are periodically verified to ensure their validity.
    When using these promotions you can boost your chances on the gaming site.
    https://heatherparker.com/articles/otdyh_v_rossii_essentuki_dostoprimechatelynosti_dosug_sanatorii.html
    Plus, full explanations on how to activate promocodes are given for better understanding.
    Keep in mind that selected deals may have particular conditions, so look into conditions before redeeming.

  31. 1xBet stands as a premier sports betting platform.
    Offering an extensive selection of sports, 1XBet caters to a vast audience around the world.
    The 1XBet app created to suit both Android and Apple devices users.
    https://www.tapatalk.com/groups/dzerjinsky/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=45034&from_new_topic=1
    Players are able to get the mobile version from their site and also Google’s store for Android.
    For iOS users, this software is available via the App Store easily.

  32. 1XBet Bonus Code – Special Bonus as much as 130 Euros
    Use the 1xBet promotional code: Code 1XBRO200 during sign-up in the App to avail special perks offered by 1XBet for a 130 Euros maximum of a full hundred percent, for wagering and a 1950 Euros with free spin package. Launch the app and proceed through the sign-up procedure.
    The 1XBet promo code: 1XBRO200 provides a fantastic starter bonus to new players — full one hundred percent up to 130 Euros once you register. Bonus codes act as the key to unlocking bonuses, also One X Bet’s promo codes are no exception. By using the code, users may benefit of several promotions at different stages within their betting activity. Even if you aren’t entitled to the starter reward, 1XBet India guarantees its devoted players get compensated with frequent promotions. Check the Promotions section via their platform frequently to keep informed about current deals meant for loyal customers.
    1xbet promo code no deposit
    What One X Bet promo code is presently available right now?
    The bonus code relevant to 1XBet stands as Code 1XBRO200, which allows new customers signing up with the bookmaker to access an offer amounting to €130. In order to unlock unique offers related to games and wagering, kindly enter this special code concerning 1XBET while filling out the form. To make use of this offer, future players must input the bonus code 1xbet while signing up process so they can obtain a full hundred percent extra on their initial deposit.

  33. On this site, you can discover a variety of videos for adults.
    Every video selected with care to ensure maximum satisfaction to viewers.
    Searching for certain themes or just browsing, the platform offers content suitable for all.
    threesome
    New videos constantly refreshed, so that available content current.
    Access to every piece of content limited to users over 18, ensuring compliance with applicable laws.
    Stay tuned and fresh uploads, as the platform continues to grow regularly.

  34. 1XBet Bonus Code – Vip Bonus as much as $130
    Enter the 1XBet bonus code: Code 1XBRO200 during sign-up via the application to access the benefits offered by 1XBet to receive $130 as much as a full hundred percent, for placing bets along with a $1950 featuring one hundred fifty free spins. Start the app then continue by completing the registration steps.
    This One X Bet promo code: Code 1XBRO200 gives an amazing starter bonus for first-time users — 100% as much as €130 once you register. Promo codes are the key to unlocking rewards, and One X Bet’s bonus codes aren’t different. When applying such a code, users may benefit from multiple deals in various phases within their betting activity. Though you’re not eligible to the starter reward, 1xBet India guarantees its devoted players receive gifts with frequent promotions. Visit the Offers page via their platform frequently to remain aware regarding recent promotions meant for loyal customers.
    https://mydesign-tool.com/profile.php?name=Your_Account&user=geri-hardey-431315&action=view&from=space&com=profile
    Which 1xBet promo code is now valid at this moment?
    The bonus code relevant to 1XBet stands as 1xbro200, enabling first-time users signing up with the betting service to unlock an offer worth 130 dollars. In order to unlock special rewards for casino and bet placement, please input our bonus code related to 1XBET in the registration form. In order to benefit of this offer, prospective users need to type the bonus code Code 1xbet while signing up procedure for getting a full hundred percent extra for their first payment.

  35. В данном ресурсе доступны последние коды Melbet-промо.
    Используйте их во время создания аккаунта в системе чтобы получить максимальную награду при стартовом взносе.
    Плюс ко всему, можно найти промокоды для текущих акций игроков со стажем.
    промокод на melbet на сегодня
    Обновляйте информацию в рубрике акций, и будьте в курсе выгодные предложения от Melbet.
    Каждый бонус тестируется на актуальность, поэтому вы можете быть уверены в процессе применения.

  36. 1xBet Bonus Code – Vip Bonus maximum of 130 Euros
    Enter the One X Bet promotional code: 1xbro200 during sign-up in the App to unlock exclusive rewards provided by 1XBet to receive welcome bonus up to a full hundred percent, for sports betting plus a €1950 featuring one hundred fifty free spins. Start the app followed by proceeding by completing the registration process.
    This One X Bet promotional code: 1XBRO200 offers a great sign-up bonus for first-time users — 100% up to €130 during sign-up. Promo codes act as the key to unlocking rewards, also One X Bet’s bonus codes are the same. By using the code, users have the chance from multiple deals at different stages in their gaming adventure. Though you’re not eligible for the welcome bonus, 1XBet India ensures its loyal users are rewarded through regular bonuses. Look at the Deals tab on their website often to remain aware on the latest offers meant for current users.
    1xbet promo code hack download
    Which 1xBet promotional code is now valid at this moment?
    The bonus code relevant to 1xBet is 1xbro200, which allows first-time users registering with the betting service to unlock a reward worth $130. For gaining exclusive bonuses for casino and wagering, kindly enter the promotional code concerning 1XBET while filling out the form. To make use from this deal, prospective users should enter the promo code 1xbet during the registration step for getting a 100% bonus applied to the opening contribution.

  37. Here, discover live video chats.
    Interested in friendly chats business discussions, you’ll find options for any preference.
    The video chat feature is designed for bringing users together across different regions.
    With high-quality video along with sharp sound, each interaction becomes engaging.
    Participate in open chat spaces initiate one-on-one conversations, according to what suits you best.
    https://rt.mobilexxxchat.com/
    What’s required is a stable internet connection plus any compatible tool begin chatting.

  38. Within this platform, you can discover an extensive selection virtual gambling platforms.
    Interested in classic games new slot machines, you’ll find an option to suit all preferences.
    The listed platforms are verified for safety, allowing users to gamble with confidence.
    play slots
    Additionally, the platform offers exclusive bonuses along with offers to welcome beginners as well as regulars.
    With easy navigation, locating a preferred platform is quick and effortless, enhancing your experience.
    Stay updated on recent updates with frequent visits, as fresh options are added regularly.

  39. On this platform, you can find lots of casino slots from top providers.
    Players can experience retro-style games as well as new-generation slots with stunning graphics and interactive gameplay.
    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s always a slot to match your mood.
    casino slots
    All slot machines are instantly accessible round the clock and designed for laptops and tablets alike.
    No download is required, so you can start playing instantly.
    Platform layout is easy to use, making it simple to explore new games.
    Sign up today, and dive into the world of online slots!

  40. Mechanical watches continue to be the epitome of timeless elegance.
    In a world full of digital gadgets, they undoubtedly hold their sophistication.
    Crafted with precision and mastery, these timepieces reflect true horological beauty.
    Unlike fleeting trends, fine mechanical watches will never go out of fashion.
    https://www.wantedly.com/id/arabicbezel
    They represent heritage, tradition, and enduring quality.
    Whether displayed daily or saved for special occasions, they always remain in style.

  41. Within this platform, explore a wide range virtual gambling platforms.
    Interested in classic games or modern slots, you’ll find an option for every player.
    The listed platforms checked thoroughly for trustworthiness, enabling gamers to bet peace of mind.
    play slots
    Moreover, the platform unique promotions and deals for new players including long-term users.
    With easy navigation, discovering a suitable site is quick and effortless, making it convenient.
    Keep informed regarding new entries through regular check-ins, since new casinos are added regularly.

  42. 本站 提供 海量的 成人材料,满足 成年访客 的 兴趣。
    无论您喜欢 哪种类型 的 影片,这里都 应有尽有。
    所有 材料 都经过 严格审核,确保 高清晰 的 观看体验。
    色情照片
    我们支持 多种设备 访问,包括 电脑,随时随地 自由浏览。
    加入我们,探索 无限精彩 的 两性空间。

  43. Here, you can discover a variety internet-based casino sites.
    Whether you’re looking for well-known titles latest releases, you’ll find an option for every player.
    Every casino included are verified to ensure security, allowing users to gamble securely.
    play slots
    Additionally, the site provides special rewards along with offers targeted at first-timers as well as regulars.
    With easy navigation, discovering a suitable site is quick and effortless, saving you time.
    Be in the know about the latest additions by visiting frequently, as fresh options appear consistently.

  44. Here, explore a wide range virtual gambling platforms.
    Whether you’re looking for well-known titles new slot machines, there’s something for every player.
    The listed platforms are verified for trustworthiness, so you can play with confidence.
    play slots
    What’s more, this resource provides special rewards along with offers targeted at first-timers including long-term users.
    Due to simple access, finding your favorite casino is quick and effortless, making it convenient.
    Keep informed about the latest additions by visiting frequently, as fresh options are added regularly.

  45. Здесь доступны вспомогательные материалы для школьников.
    Все школьные дисциплины в одном месте включая естественные науки.
    Подготовьтесь к экзаменам с использованием пробных вариантов.
    https://unews.pro/news/141453/
    Образцы задач упростят процесс обучения.
    Доступ свободный для комфортного использования.
    Используйте ресурсы дома и успешно сдавайте экзамены.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.