Things I Don't Do

Having read Simple Mom's "Imperfection" post about things she doesn't do, I was inspired to think up my own list.  Mommy blogs, like fashion magazines, often set forth a vision of perfection that few of us achieve (and probably, like fashion magazines, reduce our self esteem significantly, even while we aspire to the lifestyle):  clean, uncluttered, and stylish homes; organic, local, seasonal, homemade-from-scratch meals (3 a day plus snacks.  No school-bought lunches!); homeschooled, disciplined, creative, outdoorsy kids who are smart and empathetic; supportive, encouraging,fun spouses on the same track;  homemade clothes, toys, gifts, decorations, etc--all captured in perfect, artsy, photographs.  You get the picture--a long list of attributes that I have internalized as "shoulds."  Of course, all blogs highlight their strengths and downplay their weaknesses--I don't blog about my kids' embarrassing moments or faults, or about Mama's, and only sometimes my own.  I do often spout my vision for the aforementioned lifestyle, liberal politics, quality education, spirituality, among other things.  But that's all it is:  a vision.  Somedays, my life approaches that utopia; other days, I can barely see the dream for the clutter and chaos.  But everyday, here are some things I "should" do that I don't (and usually feel guilty about):

• I don't make vegetables for dinner every night.
• I don't remember to send cards or gifts on time, or sometimes at all.  (And when I do, I don't usually make them by hand.)
• I don't use the public library as much as I could (and I use Amazon way too much).
• I don't read the local papers often or follow all of the issues.
• I don't often follow through on ideas or projects.
• I don't answer phone calls in a timely fashion.
• I don't Facebook or Twitter.  Or text.
• I don't often wake up before the kids.
• Even when I physically could, I didn't weed the garden or clean the house much. (It's the only thing that makes back pain good--no guilt about cleaning or yard care!)
• I don't always get the kids to brush their teeth.  Or take their vitamins. Or wash their hair regularly.
• I don't always say "please" (I'm much better with "thank you").
• I don't always kiss Mama goodbye (but I do remember "I love you").
• I don't ever unplug.

What things don't you do that you feel like you should?  Make a list and let it go--it's cathartic.