Grill and Not-So Chill

Yesterday was a special day. Why? Because the universe chose to channel a sitcom pilot episode through my life, complete with a toddler sidekick and a husband with the memory of a goldfish. Did we have a BBQ to prep for? Yes. Were we prepared? Absolutely not.

Act 1: Grocery Misadventures. We head to the store with our nearly-2-year-old, who has a vendetta against car rides, grocery carts, and apparently public decorum. As we strut towards the grocery entrance like disheveled runway models, I casually ask my husband for the list. He taps his temple confidently, implying he's got it all memorized. This would be admirable if it wasn’t for the minor detail that his brain was currently buffering.

Inside, instead of leading our food expedition, he decides to take a call right in the aisle. Picture this: a toddler verging on meltdown, a woman (me) summoning every ounce of patience, and my hubby having a leisurely chat about... who knows? Aunt Mildred's pet ferret?

Act 2: Checking Out Chaos. At the cash register, our toddler transforms into an aspiring interior decorator, rearranging the candy aisle. I’m so close to proposing a game called “Let’s bang our heads on the cash register together!” But, good news, we abstain.

Act 3: Home, But Not Dry. We arrive home (which resembles a scene post-tornado), and — drum roll — we’ve forgotten propane. For a BBQ. It’s like forgetting water for a pool party. Also, no plates. And every plate at home is filthy. So, while Ms. Rachel serenades us from the TV, I channel my inner Cinderella, sans singing mice, scrubbing away.

Throughout all this, my husband keeps a safe distance, well aware that my inner dragon might make an appearance. Because while being a mom often means magical floor playtimes and heart-melting moments, it's also juggling finances, playdates, work, side gigs, wife duties, home upkeep, and occasionally, a desire to sprint around the block for no reason.

So, here’s to every mom out there feeling the weight of the world and the stickiness of toddler snacks. May we always find the humor amidst the chaos and remember that sometimes, laughter really is the best BBQ sauce. 🍔🔥😂