Military Mom Life: Routine is Survival

Hello, lovely readers.

Today we’re marching into another battle zone of parenting—routine. Because in this house, “winging it” isn’t an option. With five kids, if I let them run the mornings, I’d be found rocking in a corner with cold coffee and glitter in my hair.

Routine is survival.

Why Routine Matters Here

The eldest two have log-cabin independence. But with freedom comes responsibility: they’ve got to get themselves to school on time. That means up, dressed, out the door—no excuses, no mom-dash to the school gate because this mom has work.

And because teenagers are masters of procrastination, we keep things simple:

• Uniforms ready the night before. If it’s not ironed by bedtime, you’ll be wearing “wrinkle chic” to school.

• Bags packed and waiting. Homework? Kit? Packed lunch? If you forget, tough. This drill sergeant doesn’t deliver mid-morning.

• Lunches sorted. No 7am arguments over sandwiches. By bedtime, your rations are set.

The Shower Situation

Here’s where I draw a hard line: showers happen at night.

Why? Because nothing ruins my morning battle plan like hearing: “But I neeeeed a shower!” at 7:45am. Not on my watch.

Morning showers = excuses, lateness, and a bathroom that looks like a bomb site. Nope. Night showers only. That way, mornings are quick, painless(ish), and I don’t come home to a soggy towel graveyard.

Routine = Respect

This isn’t about being mean—it’s about teaching them that:

• The world doesn’t wait while you “find your shoes.”

• Other people also need a bathroom, so don’t hog it.

• Being on time is a life skill, not a personality trait.

If they can master routine at home, maybe—just maybe—they’ll carry it into the real world.

The Funny Side

Of course, even with rules, mornings aren’t perfect. I still get the 14-year-old zombie shuffle, the 13-year-old who forgets his bag entirely, and the occasional “Mom, I can’t find my trousers!” panic. But at least I know I’ve done my part—whether they stick to the plan or not is on them.

Final Thoughts

Routine in this house isn’t flexible. It’s firm. Uniforms, bags, lunches, showers—all handled the night before. That way, the mornings don’t crush me, and the kids learn discipline.

One day, they’ll thank me. Or maybe they won’t. Either way, I’ll enjoy my coffee in peace knowing everyone’s where they need to be—on time, dressed, and hopefully smelling half-decent.

👉 What’s the worst morning excuse you’ve ever heard from your kids? Drop it in the comments—I need a laugh (and reassurance I’m not the only one dealing with chaos).