My Brain Needs a Break
- Raven Ambrose
- Sep 5
- 20 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
I NEED a Mental Vacation!!
9/5/2025
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Some days, I'm totally swamped with all the challenges life throws at me, and other days, I'm so bored I can hardly stand it. It's funny how my mood can flip so much from one day to the next. On those really boring days, when time just drags on, I usually end up cleaning the house and running errands just to feel a bit productive. Today is one of those blah days, and I've got a long list of stuff to do.
As you probably know, I homeschool my daughter, so her education is always a top priority for me. It takes a lot of planning, patience, and creativity to make sure her learning is both fun and educational. But today, my attention's a bit divided because I have a vet appointment for my dog. It's the third time this month I've had to take him in for a blood draw, which has been quite the hassle. My dog is seriously the most anxious pet I've ever met. He gets super nervous at the vet, which makes the whole thing tough for both of us. Luckily, after two failed attempts, the third time worked out, thanks to some sedatives that calmed him down.
Besides dealing with my dog's anxiety and the vet visit, I'm also getting ready to have a bunch of stitches taken out of my ankle. It's been two and a half weeks since my surgery, and while I'm healing up, I'm really looking forward to getting the stitches out so I can get back to my usual activities without the discomfort. The anticipation of this little but important procedure just adds another layer to my day.
After my appointment, I've got to head out to see a patient in another city. This means I need to plan ahead since it's not just about the travel but also making sure I’ve got everything I need for the visit. I really enjoy these moments of connecting with others, but they do add to the craziness of my already packed schedule.
Once that's done, I need to swing by Walmart for groceries. I also have to grab a new can opener because the one I bought just two weeks ago is already busted. It’s so annoying how stuff seems to break so quickly these days, and it feels like companies are skimping on quality to save money. I just hope I can find the receipt or at least remember where I got the can opener so I can deal with the company. Their refund process is a bit of a pain, so I’m not looking forward to that.
All in all, my day is packed with a mix of responsibilities and errands, showing just how unpredictable life can be. Even though it can get overwhelming, I do find some satisfaction in ticking off these everyday tasks, knowing they help keep my family and home running smoothly.
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A Lesson Learned
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So, I just found out that my daughter's volleyball coach decided to move her to a lower-level team because she missed practice for three weeks straight. This news really got to me because I know how much she’s put into her volleyball training over the past year. Out of those three missed practices, two were because of things happening at her dad’s place, and I wasn’t fully in the loop. The first time she missed, I had no idea she wasn’t at practice. The second time, I could have handled it better; I should have made sure she went to practice.
Then, last night, her dad took her to a Blink-182 concert. I get that it’s a fun thing for her, but it meant missing another practice. I’m really upset for her because she’s worked so hard to be on the upper-level team. I’ve seen her put in so many hours, getting better and really loving the sport. It’s tough to see that all her hard work might not be recognized like she wanted.
Last week was the start of the school year, and I thought giving her a break from her usual activities would help since she was feeling worn out from the change. I didn’t realize this would overlap with her volleyball practices. I honestly didn’t know about the first missed practice and didn’t know she’d miss the next one too.
Even though the volleyball season hasn't "officially" kicked off yet, the coach really thinks it's super important for everyone to show up, no matter what. I get where he's coming from; it's only fair to the other girls who've been showing up to practice and working hard these past few weeks. They're showing how committed they are, and it must be tough for the coach to deal with a team where some aren't putting in the same effort.
Even though I get why the coach feels this way, I can't help but feel sad about my daughter's situation. The coach said that if she does really well on the lower-level team, she'll have a shot to prove herself and maybe get back on the upper-level team. This gives us a bit of hope, but it also puts pressure on her to do great in what feels like a bit of a setback.
I want to be there for her during this change and help her get her confidence back. I know she's got the talent and drive to do well, but I worry about how this might affect her love for the game. As a parent, I'm feeling all sorts of things—sadness, frustration, and the urge to cheer her on to keep going despite this bump in the road. I hope she can see this as a chance to grow and get better, and I'll be right there to support her every step of the way.
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At times, we need a WooSaa
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I've got a husband and four kids who need me at different times during the day, each with their own crazy demands and schedules that often clash. Juggling their needs takes a lot of focus and energy, as I try to be there for each of them while handling my own stuff. Besides being a mom, I'm also a dedicated softball coach, helping young athletes improve their skills and learn teamwork, which adds another layer to my already packed life. My job as a hospice nurse is both rewarding and emotionally tough, as I take care of patients and their families during really tough times. This work needs not just physical stamina but also a ton of emotional strength, as I often deal with the ups and downs of grief and compassion.
On top of my work and family duties, I try to keep up with friends, squeezing in moments to connect with those who support me. But honestly, this can feel like an uphill battle since my time is so scattered that even hanging out can become stressful. To make things more interesting, I also have four pets at home, each needing attention, care, and love. They depend on me for their well-being, which makes my daily routine even more hectic and adds to my list of responsibilities.
When I finally get a moment to relax and focus on myself, I often feel a wave of guilt. I think I should always be doing something productive or looking after others instead of taking time for self-care. Back in the day, I used to find comfort on my front porch, sometimes smoking a cigarette when it felt right. I'd play games on my phone or do other little things that seemed harmless at the time. I told myself these breaks were necessary to recharge. But eventually, I realized this wasn't really working for me.
Spending time on these seemingly harmless activities often led to procrastination. I'd put off important tasks, telling myself I was just "taking a break" or having "me time," only to end up scrambling to finish everything I delayed. This cycle of putting things off created chaos in my life, as I struggled to meet deadlines and keep up with commitments. Plus, I noticed my daughter's homeschooling was suffering because I prioritized my breaks over her learning. I'd give her independent work, thinking it would give me a break, but really, I wasn't giving her education the attention it needed.
Realizing this has made me rethink how I manage my time and responsibilities. I'm starting to see how important it is to find a balance that lets me care for myself without neglecting my duties to family, work, and pets. Learning to prioritize effectively and understanding that self-care doesn't have to come at others' expense is a journey I'm committed to. It's crucial to create a more balanced life where I can be there for my loved ones while also taking care of myself, making sure I'm not just a caregiver but also someone who deserves care and attention.
Complementing Each Other: A Partnership Built on Strengths and Weaknesses
Luckily, my husband and I balance each other out with our strengths and weaknesses, making our relationship work well because we support and understand each other. It's great having a partner who shares the load equally, so we can face life's challenges together. We know we each bring something special to the table, which helps us handle everything from the everyday stuff to the big moments. I'm not saying we're perfect—far from it. I've admitted my flaws plenty of times, knowing that being aware of them is key to growing. I think owning up to our imperfections shows we're serious about improving ourselves and our relationship. It's important to look at our flaws with a mindset focused on growth, and that's what I try to do. But I'm not here to just complain without reason. I want to address what's bothering me in a way that leads to solutions. I really want to find answers to the problems we face, big or small. This proactive mindset helps us talk openly about our feelings and experiences. I'm always working on bettering myself, not just for me but for the sake of our relationship. Life's a mix of ups and downs, and we can't ignore the downs. They're crucial because they teach us lessons and help us build resilience. I want people to understand that everyone faces challenges, even those little things that might seem unimportant. What seems small to one person can be a big deal to another, and that deserves respect. It's okay to acknowledge that something minor to some can be heavy for others. What's not okay is complaining without doing anything or blaming others for everything that goes wrong. That kind of attitude stops personal growth and puts a strain on relationships. Instead, we should face our problems directly, try to understand why they're happening, and work together to find solutions. By creating a culture of accountability and support, we can turn challenges into growth opportunities, both for ourselves and as a couple. In the end, a strong partnership is all about recognizing and embracing our differences, talking openly about our challenges, and working together on real solutions. It's not just about sharing responsibilities; it's about building a life where we both thrive, learn, and grow, despite life's ups and downs.
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So Overwhelming
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Sometimes, I feel totally swamped with all the work I have to handle every day. The tasks just keep piling up, making everything feel like a chaotic mess. It seems like cleaning is never really done; as soon as I finish one room, another one needs attention. Dust builds up, toys are scattered everywhere, and the laundry basket is always full. Cooking is another never-ending job that takes up a lot of my time and energy. I'm constantly whipping up meals to make sure my family eats healthy and balanced food. My husband helps out a bit, but it's usually just taking out the trash or recycling when I ask him, even if the bins are overflowing and obviously need emptying.
He rarely offers to cook, and when he does, it's typically because I've asked him to make something. This often makes me feel like I'm the main person running our household, handling not just the daily chores but also planning and cooking meals.
On top of all that, I'm mostly in charge of scheduling the kids' appointments, from dentist visits to regular doctor check-ups. Keeping track of all these schedules and making sure we stick to timelines for vaccinations and check-ups can be pretty overwhelming. I manage all the dental appointments for our kids, while my husband only looks after his own, which adds more to my plate.
Plus, I organize vet visits for our pets, because it's clear they wouldn't happen without me taking the lead. This means not just setting up the appointments but also making sure we have all the meds and that our pets are ready for their check-ups. The weight of all these responsibilities can be exhausting, and sometimes I feel like I'm carrying the whole household on my shoulders. Balancing family, home, and pets is a constant juggling act, and I often wonder how I can get a fairer share of tasks within our family.
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Can’t Do it All Alone
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I often count on him for certain things, just like I handle my own set of tasks. This setup works great for us because we each have our roles that keep everything at home running smoothly. When it comes to paying bills, that's all him. He takes care of everything financial, from handling the monthly utilities to managing our budget, making sure we stay on top of our expenses. His attention to detail with this stuff is amazing, and I totally trust his judgment. He's almost done with his bachelor's degree in engineering, which is a huge deal and shows how dedicated and hardworking he is. Plus, he already has a bachelor's degree in aviation, proving he's got a wide range of interests and skills. In case you didn't know, he's an Air Traffic Controller, which is a super demanding job that needs a lot of focus and precision. He's been working six days a week since he started as a trainee, about 8 or 9 years ago. His job is pretty intense, as he's responsible for making sure planes move safely and efficiently in the skies. It's not exactly fun, but it's crucial for the safety of passengers and crew. The stress and long hours can be tough, but he handles it like a champ. I also rely on him for those "manly" tasks that pop up unexpectedly. Like, when something breaks around the house, I usually ask him to fix it. I could try doing it myself, but I know his skills are way better, leading to better results. I once tried changing a faucet and did okay, but he had to fix something I missed, showing he's way more skilled in that area. Recently, I bought paver stones for our front yard because I have a tiny porch and have always wanted a bigger one since I love being outside. It's been a dream of mine to create a nice space to relax and enjoy the fresh air. We've been talking about him building the paver porch for years, discussing ideas and designs, but buying the pavers is as far as we've gotten. He mentioned I didn't get all the materials needed to finish the project, so I asked him to pick them up, but I can't remember how long ago that was. It feels like it's been ages since we made any progress. Besides the porch, there are a bunch of other projects around the house that he started but hasn't finished. Some have been incomplete for about 6 or 7 years, like the kitchen renovations. It's a bit frustrating to see these unfinished tasks hanging around, reminding us of our plans to improve our home. I often daydream about how great it would be to finally wrap up these projects and turn our place into the cozy, functional space we imagine. But life keeps getting in the way, and priorities change, leaving many of these tasks waiting for the right time to tackle them.
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It Takes a Toll on Us All
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My oldest daughter sometimes gets annoyed with me when I vent about what my husband doesn't do around the house or with the family. She often reminds me that "he works super hard, six days a week, in a high-pressure job where a lot of people's lives depend on him." It's a big reminder of the huge responsibility he carries every day. His job isn't just tough; it's crucial, requiring quick decisions that can seriously impact others. He often does this on very little sleep, pushing through tiredness to meet his job's demands. I get how stressful his work is, and even with all that pressure, he hardly ever lets it affect our home life. He somehow keeps his work and family life separate, which I really admire.
Still, you can see how this nonstop work schedule affects him. He's got to work six days a week to keep his job safe, which is getting harder with today's economy. The job demands can be overwhelming, and it's clear that it's tough on his mental and physical health. He's not getting any younger, and over the years, his responsibilities seem to get heavier. Besides his demanding job, he also helps me coach a softball team of fourteen lively 7-8-year-old girls, which can be quite a challenge and needs a lot of patience and energy. The commitment to coaching adds another layer to his already packed schedule.
Plus, he's really involved in our daughter’s homeschooling, putting in time and effort to make sure she gets a good education. He does so much for our family, and I often wish he didn't have to carry such a heavy load. The pressures of modern life, along with rising costs and small raises, mean we still struggle sometimes even though we're careful with money. We've made it a point to budget wisely and prioritize our spending, so we usually only buy new clothes for specific events like camp or sports, or when things wear out or don't fit anymore.
In our family, we usually wear our clothes until they're completely worn out, especially my husband and me. For the kids, we keep their clothes until they either outgrow them or they're totally done for. We've really embraced a lifestyle that's all about being sustainable and frugal, so we're totally cool with shopping at yard sales, thrift stores, and flea markets. We love the charm and stories behind second-hand stuff, and we always try to support local businesses whenever we can. I don't mind spending a bit more on items from local shops because I believe in supporting our community and its economy. We only hit up big chain stores when we absolutely have to, and that's a choice we make carefully.
One of my favorite things to do locally is visit the butcher shop whenever I can. My family is crazy about the beef jerky I make from their jerky meat, and it's become a favorite snack around our house. I usually drop about $60 on meat during these trips, and it's amazing how fast it disappears—my family gobbles it up in just a day or two. This not only makes us happy but also brings us closer as we enjoy meals and snacks that I've made with love. These experiences remind me of how important it is to keep balance, understanding, and appreciation in our family, even when things get a bit frustrating.
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Exhausted
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Today was super tiring, a crazy mix of responsibilities that left me totally wiped out by the end. I tackled the ups and downs of homeschooling, which needed not just patience and creativity, but also a sharp focus on what my kid needed to learn. Juggling lessons, activities, and keeping my kid interested was no easy task. On top of that, I had to take our furry friend to the vet, which meant figuring out how to get there and making sure our pet got the care they needed.
The day didn’t end there; I also had a doctor’s appointment for myself. The waiting room was packed, and the appointment dragged on longer than I expected, adding more stress to my already busy day. After that, I headed to another city to see a patient, which took a lot of time and energy, both mentally and physically. The commute was exhausting, and I had to quickly switch gears to give the best care I could.
Once I got home, I had the huge task of grocery shopping ahead of me. Navigating the aisles, deciding what to buy, and figuring out how to carry everything back home was just another layer of exhaustion. After putting away the groceries, I jumped into cooking dinner, which, although fun, added to my long list of things to do. The kitchen was a whirlwind, and by the time dinner was ready, I was already feeling the day's weight.
Cleaning up after dinner felt like it dragged on forever. I also spent some time updating patient records, making sure everything was accurate and up to date. It's important for keeping things smooth, but it's pretty exhausting after a long day.
By the time I wrapped all this up, I was completely wiped out. I had planned to hang out with friends at an event, hoping for some social time and a break from the daily grind. But after this crazy week, especially today, I just didn’t have the energy to go. It’s been a long week, and I’ve been crashing much earlier than usual, like between 8 PM and 9 PM, just trying to catch up on sleep. Normally, I’m up until 11 PM or even 1 AM, so this new routine feels weird.
Even with 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night, I still feel like I haven’t rested enough. Maybe I’m coming down with something, or maybe my mind and body just need a serious break. The tiredness is really catching up with me, and I know I need to focus on some self-care.
On the bright side, I’ve been making plans with an old coworker who moved out of state. We’re planning a trip to Pigeon Forge to hit up Dollywood again, and I’m really looking forward to it. We've been planning this for a while, and I can’t wait for all the fun and excitement at the park. I’ll definitely blog about it and share all the awesome moments. But that’s still a month away, so for now, I need to focus on recharging and finding some balance in my busy life.
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So Many Obligations, Not Enough Time
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A friend hit me up recently, inviting me to join them and another close buddy for a night in the mountains. The thought of escaping to the peaceful beauty of the mountains and being surrounded by nature is super tempting. But, I'm in a bit of a bind because I've got prior commitments I can't ignore. This weekend is a big deal for my family since both my cousin and my niece have birthdays. Especially since my niece is turning one, it's a milestone I just can't miss.
A child's first birthday isn't just about celebrating their life so far; it's a time for family to come together, reflect on the joy the little one has brought us, and make lasting memories. There's going to be a gathering full of laughs, cake, and family warmth, and it's really important for me to be there to soak in the love and happiness of the day.
Even though I'm committed to family, I can't help but crave the mountains, which I often call my happy place. The mountains have always been special to me; they're a sanctuary where I can find peace and recharge. Whether I'm hiking a rugged trail, breathing in the fresh air, or just chilling by a quiet lake, the mountains offer a much-needed break from the daily grind.
I've found that just a night or two in the mountains or forest is usually enough to recharge my mental and physical batteries. There's something incredibly soothing about being surrounded by tall trees, the sound of rustling leaves, and the distant call of wildlife. Each season brings its own unique beauty, whether it's the vibrant fall colors, the calm winter snow, the blooming spring flowers, or the lush summer greenery.
Even though I'll miss out on this chance to hang with friends in the mountains, I know I can always plan another trip later. For now, I'll focus on celebrating with my family and cherishing the moments we share. The mountains will always be there, patiently waiting for my return, ready to offer their peace and tranquility whenever I can make it back.
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Traveling is My Brain Break
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I'm totally obsessed with traveling; it's what I live for. The excitement of discovering new places, diving into different cultures, and soaking up the world's beauty gives me a joy that's hard to beat. Every trip feels like a new chapter in my life, a chance to make awesome memories and learn more about the amazing variety of human life. My work is all about planning the next adventure, always asking, "When and where's the next trip?" This constant hunt for new experiences pushes me to find new spots, learn about local customs, and plan trips that make the most of every moment.
But, our trips depend on when my husband can get time off and our budget, which can sometimes make things tricky. Our family situation often decides when and how we can travel since my husband has a demanding job. There have been many times when it was just me and my youngest daughter traveling, which created a special bond as we explored the world together. The older kids were with their dad, and my husband couldn't get away from work, but we still made it happen. These adventures with my daughter have given us our own special memories, which I really cherish.
For example, during Spring Break 2024, my ex-husband planned a cruise with my older three kids, so my youngest daughter and I got to plan our own adventure. Since my husband had to work, we decided to go on our own and embrace the spontaneity. We picked a nearby spot that was easy on the wallet and packed with experiences, letting us explore without the hassle of a big group. It turned out to be an awesome and memorable trip full of laughter, exploring, and bonding. We checked out local attractions, tried new foods, and even made some new friends along the way. I treasure every trip, whether I'm traveling solo, with family, friends, or both, as each one adds to my understanding of the world and the people in it.
I can't wait to explore and learn everything about this world. The idea of seeing stunning landscapes, lively cities, and hidden gems beyond my doorstep really gets me excited about traveling. I think every trip is a chance to grow, step out of my comfort zone, and dive into the unknown. The stories I collect, the lessons I pick up, and the friendships I make along the way add so much to my life. Whether it's a quick weekend trip or a long international adventure, I'm always pumped for what's next and can't wait for the adventures that lie ahead.
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Homeschooling Takes A LOT of Work and Effort
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One of the reasons I decided to homeschool my daughter was to dive back into learning myself, and it's been an amazing journey of discovery. Homeschooling gives me a chance to revisit the stuff I learned as a kid—some of it I've totally forgotten, while other bits are still pretty fresh in my mind. Going over these subjects again is super rewarding because it not only helps me but also makes me a better teacher for my kids. I want them to learn more than I did in school, so I try to create a space where they're curious and excited about learning. I always push them to do their own research, which helps them think critically and find information on their own. Teaching them how to spot credible sources is a big deal in our lessons; luckily, they have access to a college class focused on this, which I remember taking myself. This class gives them the skills to figure out what's real in a world full of misinformation.
Besides academics, I really value the time I spend with my kids. I always make sure to hug and kiss them a lot so they know they're loved and safe. I tell them I love them every day when they're with me, keeping our bond strong. When they're with their dad, I stay connected by texting them 5-7 times a week with encouraging words, questions about their day, and reminders of my love. This regular communication helps us stay close, no matter where they are.
My daughter and I are both free spirits, and we have so much in common that makes homeschooling a blast. She's a lot like me but even better, thanks to her dad's great qualities that have made her an amazing person. We're both hands-on learners who love interactive environments. Traveling for educational purposes is awesome and adds a cool twist to our learning adventures. We hit up museums everywhere we go, soaking up knowledge and inspiration. Right now, we're exploring geology, and I'm planning to take her to a mining site for some real-world experience. When we switch to oceanography, we're going to sign her up for a six-week marsh explorer class for even more hands-on learning. These experiences are priceless and just aren't available at her school since they don't do field trips anymore like the ones I fondly remember from my elementary days. It's a bummer because those trips were such a big part of my education.
One of the best things about homeschooling is the quality time I get to hang out with my daughter—time that usually gets lost when she's stuck in a regular school for 8 hours a day. I love being the one to raise her, teach her, and shower her with love and support. Being so involved in her learning and growth is something I really value. The only downside? She doesn't get to see her friends as much during the day. She's the most social kid I know, which makes the social side of homeschooling the only real drawback. She loves being around people, whether she's playing games with older folks or making babies giggle with her lively energy. Her outgoing nature is why I think she'd totally rock a new show on the Travel Channel or Food Network, or maybe both! How many shows have a kid co-host? She's got awesome insights and a love for trying new stuff that even outshines my adventurous streak. At just 8 years old, she's way braver than I am, and I've done some pretty daring things in my time. Her fearless attitude and natural charm make her perfect for grabbing an audience's attention and inspiring others to jump into their own adventures.
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