An open letter to my children:

I am the backpack of the family.

I carry all of your things, while you run towards your friends.

I hold all of your jackets, toys, and food.

I am your silent cheerleader.

I make sure my hands are full, so yours are free to do what you love.

You may not see me much, as I am often in the background at birthday parties, BBQs, and dinners.

I am the one holding your jacket, so you can wear your dress.

I am the one holding your plates full of food, while you pick over what you actually want to eat.

I am the one sitting down last at dinner, because I need to make sure your dinner plate is full, first.

I carry a lot.

Physically, and mentally.

I am the one who carries your belongings, but I also carry your problems.

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I am the one who you come running to when you get a boo-boo.

I am the one who listens to all of your worries and helps you solve them.

I am the one who may not be the most patient during the day, but I promise when you’re sleeping, I always stroke your face, and tell you “I’m sorry, I love you.”

I am the one who sits silently on the couch watching you play, while I fold your laundry. I know it seems like I’m not wanting to play with you, but I do.

I am the one who you think gets upset at you a lot, but it’s only because I love you. And I feel overwhelmed sometimes with all that I am carrying.

I am the backpack of my family.

It’s not an easy job, and it’s a quiet job that you don’t really see, but I wouldn’t want to be anything else.

I love being your safe place.

I love being your backpack.

Put it all on me. Physically and mentally.

Love,
Your mom, the backpack parent

This post originally appeared on Caitlin Fladager