When the Pottery Barn Collides with Toys 'R' Us

"Oh sure, that lamp would look perfect with the sofa but would it clash with the Little Me Activity Table?"

It has finally happened- I am now one of those people who sort of cringes when their neighbor knocks on the door because that means I have to invite them in and they'll see the clutter of toys, laundry piled high, diapers, wipes and the rest of the baby raising paraphernalia shuffled around the house. It doesn't matter how many wicker baskets you buy to tuck those toys away or how many times you try to prevent bottles and sippy cups from spilling- kids and clean, tidy houses- just don't go together very easily.

So why post a picture of all this on the internet, where everyone can view my domestic failures? It's simply a step toward self-therapy to say "I cannot do it all!" And, as my mother loves to say, "This too shall pass!" Gavin has entered his busy years and I can barely keep up with him. When he goes down for a nap- I have to decide: shall I shower, do laundry, figure out what's for dinner, or just say screw it and sit down and watch the Today Show?

This is simply a reality check- our once tidy home influenced by The Pottery Barn has been struck head on with the craze of Toys 'R' Us. Our fireplace has a baby gate attached to it, candlesticks, crystal bowls and picture frames have been stored away. Oh- and don't forget to "watch your glass!"

So to all of you mothers out there- I now understand the constant tug-o-war you face when trying to achieve a functioning household and also allowing your toddler to have fun. And now, after my rant- I think I really will sit down, enjoy a cup of coffee and watch the Today Show- because all that other stuff will still be there later...