My kids told me they wished I didn’t exist, and those words cut deeper than anything I’d ever heard. They were angry, careless—but I decided to take their wish seriously. I vanished from their lives, leaving no trace. It was time they learned what life would be like without Mom.
I’d heard it countless times—people saying housewives had it easy. They stayed home, relaxed, and lived off their husbands’ hard work. What a joke!

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Let me tell you, my being a stay-at-home mom wasn’t just a job; it was an endless marathon with no breaks. My days were a blur of cleaning, cooking, managing tantrums, and juggling a thousand other things.
Tom, my sweet but stubborn five-year-old, was at that age where every little thing was a battle.
Eliza, on the other hand, was teetering on the edge of her pre-teen years—full of sass and mood swings.

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And my husband, Justin? He thought his paycheck excused him from everything else. It was exhausting.
That evening, as usual, we sat down for dinner together. Sharing our day had become a routine, though it often came with surprises.
I looked at Tom, who was already playing with his peas. “Tom, how was preschool today?” I asked, trying to sound cheerful.

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He shrugged. “It was okay, but Miss Jackson might call you tomorrow.”
That caught my attention. “Why would she call me?” I asked, putting down my fork.
“I just wanted to pet a dog outside, but Miss Jackson said you shouldn’t touch stray dogs because they can have rab—rabai—” Tom paused, frowning.

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“Rabies,” Eliza said with an exaggerated eye roll.
Tom nodded. “Yeah, rabies.”
I leaned forward. “And why does that mean she might call me?”
Tom hesitated, then blurted, “Well, I didn’t like what she said, so I bit her.”

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I stared at him, shocked. “You bit your teacher?” My voice rose without meaning to.
Tom nodded, completely unbothered. “She said rabies spreads by bites. I wanted to show her.”
“Mom, you gave birth to a lunatic,” Eliza muttered, smirking.
“Don’t talk about your brother like that,” I said firmly. Then I turned to Justin, who was busy eating. “Justin, do you have anything to say about this?”

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He glanced up briefly. “You’re handling it great, honey,” he said, patting my hand.
I sighed, turning back to Tom. “Tom, we’ve talked about this. You can’t bite people. It hurts, and it’s wrong. Next time, use words to express how you feel.”
Finally, I faced Eliza. “How was your day?”
“Fine,” she said, barely looking up.

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“That’s all?” I asked.
“Oh, I’m sleeping over at Nancy’s tomorrow, remember?” she added casually.
“Yes, I remember,” I said, feeling my energy drain.
The next day started badly and only got worse. When I went into Tom’s room to check if he had cleaned up like I’d asked, it looked like a tornado had hit it.

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Toys, clothes, and books were everywhere. I felt my patience slipping, but there wasn’t time to deal with it.
I had to apologize to Miss Jackson for Tom biting her, which was embarrassing enough.
Then, as I finally sat down to breathe, the phone rang. Eliza’s school informed me she had skipped classes. My anger boiled over. By the time they got home, I was ready for a serious talk.

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“Wait, both of you, stop right there,” I said as Tom and Eliza headed to their rooms. My voice made them freeze.
“What is it now?” Eliza asked, sounding irritated.
“Let’s start with Tom,” I said, turning to him. “I saw your room. It’s a disaster. We agreed that if you didn’t keep it clean, I’d take away your games. So, your console is mine until you show me you can keep your room tidy.”

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Tom’s eyes went wide. “What? No! That’s not fair!” he yelled, crossing his arms.
Eliza smirked. “Nice job, Tom,” she said with a mocking tone.
“I wouldn’t laugh if I were you, young lady,” I snapped. “I got a call from your school today. They told me you skipped class.”
“It was one time! Just one!” Eliza shouted, her face red with anger.

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“You’re grounded for a week,” I said firmly. “No sleepover at Nancy’s.”
“You can’t do this! ‘’ve been planning that forever!” Eliza screamed, clenching her fists.
“Then you shouldn’t have skipped class,” I replied calmly.
“I hate you! I wish you didn’t exist!” she yelled before stomping off to her room and slamming the door.

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“Yeah! Me too!” Tom shouted, running to his own room.
I stood there, tears welling up. My chest felt heavy, but I swallowed the lump in my throat.
When Justin got home, I recounted everything. He listened quietly, barely responding.
“Well?” I asked, desperate for some support.

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“Maybe you were too hard on them,” he said, shrugging. “They’re just kids.”
“Did you hear me? Did you hear what Eliza said to me?” I asked, my voice shaking with anger.
“She didn’t mean it,” he said, brushing it off.
“I’ve had enough,” I said, my voice cold. “I’ll show them what it’s like when I’m not here.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“What are you talking about?” Justin asked, confused.
“You’ll see,” I said and walked away.
That night, as the house lay silent, I began my plan. Justin, always a heavy sleeper, didn’t stir once.
I moved quietly, gathering every single thing that was mine—clothes from the closet, photos from the walls, notebooks from the desk.

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Even my favorite mug, the one I used every morning, went into a box. I left no sign that I had ever been there.
With everything packed, I carried it all up to the attic. The attic was dusty and cramped, but I set up a mattress in the corner, arranging a small lamp and a blanket. Justin wouldn’t think to look here; he barely remembered the attic existed.

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Before settling in, I set up cameras in the kitchen and living room. I needed to see how they managed without me. This was only the beginning.
The next morning, I watched them from the camera feed as they stood in the kitchen, looking lost.
“Where’s Mom?” Tom asked, his voice unsure.

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“I don’t know,” Eliza said, glancing around. “But even her pictures are gone. The ones on the wall, too.”
“Her clothes aren’t in the closet,” Justin added, scratching his head.
Tom’s eyes widened. “Did our wish come true? Did Mom really disappear?”

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“Don’t be ridiculous,” Justin said, shaking his head.
“But she’s really gone!” Eliza insisted. “Her stuff isn’t here. There’s no sign of her at all.”
Justin pulled out his phone. “I’ll call her. This is probably some kind of joke.” But I had turned my phone off. He stared at the screen for a moment before putting it back in his pocket.

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“Okay, let’s go,” he said, sounding annoyed. “I’ll drop you off at school. We’ll figure this out later.”
Eliza hesitated. “Can I still go to Nancy’s sleepover?”
“Yes, yes. Just get in the car,” Justin said impatiently.
“Yes!” Eliza cheered. Then she grinned. “Maybe it’s better this way. Mom was always on my case anyway.”

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“That means I can play video games!” Tom shouted, jumping up.
I felt my chest tighten. My heart ached as I watched them. They didn’t miss me; they seemed relieved. They were happy I was gone.
That evening, I watched from the camera as Justin and Tom sat on the couch, laughing and playing video games.

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A pizza box sat open on the coffee table, grease stains already soaking into the cardboard.
I noticed Tom eating a big slice loaded with cheese. My stomach tightened. He was lactose intolerant. Justin, distracted by the game, had clearly forgotten.
The next morning, my fears were confirmed. Tom was curled up on the couch, pale and groaning.

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Justin scrambled to find medicine, muttering under his breath. He ended up staying home from work, trying to comfort Tom while also cleaning up the mess.
By the third day, chaos ruled. Dishes piled up in the sink, laundry was untouched, and the kids left for school with nothing but dry cereal in their hands.
That evening, Tom sat crying on the couch, overwhelmed. Even Eliza, who usually stayed distant, looked defeated. Her hair was a mess as she clutched her empty lunchbox.

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“I miss Mom,” Tom finally said, looking up at Justin. His little face was streaked with tears, and his lip trembled.
“Me too,” Eliza added, her voice quieter than usual. She looked down at her hands. “I got my period today, and I didn’t know what to do. I wanted to call Mom so bad, but I couldn’t. It made me feel awful.”
Justin sighed, leaning back on the couch. “I think this is because of what you both said. You told her you didn’t want her to exist. Now she’s showing you what that feels like.”

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“But that’s not true!” Eliza said, her voice cracking. Tears filled her eyes. “I was just mad. I didn’t mean it. I’m so stupid for saying that.”
Tom sniffled loudly. “I want Mom to come back. I’ll clean my room every day. I won’t bite anyone ever again. I promise.”
Eliza wiped her face and nodded. “I’ll stop yelling at her. I’ll listen better. I can’t live without her. I miss her so much,” she said, sobbing.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Hearing their words broke the last bit of resolve I had. I stepped out of the shadows, standing in the doorway. “I hope you’ve learned your lesson,” I said, my voice firm but full of emotion.
They turned to me in shock before running into my arms. “Mom! You’re back!” they cried, hugging me tightly.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Really, it’s so good to see you,” Justin said, standing and walking over. “These past few days have shown me what a monumental job you do. I’ll try to make things easier for you from now on.”
“Thank you,” I said, my voice soft.
“No, thank you, for everything,” Justin replied.
“Thank you, Mom! We love you so much!” the kids said together, holding on tight.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
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Preparing for the Impact of Hurricane Milton: Evacuation Areas & Essential Safety Measures

They have recommended that everyone in a household is familiar with the hurricane plans they’ve made. This may include catering for those at work, children’s daycare, and other frequently visited locations such as grocery stores.
Additionally, the government suggests that households should stock adequate supplies. Some recommended items are medications, disinfectants, and pet supplies that are carried in the go-bag or car trunk. Access to these supplies may be limited for days or even weeks after a hurricane.
Households also need to clear drains and gutters, secure outdoor furniture, and consider installing hurricane shutters. It is highly valuable to charge a cell phone and invest in backup charging devices for electronics when a hurricane is forecasted.
2. Stay Informed
In this step, it’s crucial for households to know if they live in an evacuation zone, listed at the end of this article, as they may need to evacuate quickly due to a hurricane. They should familiarize themselves with evacuation routes. They can also practice evacuating with their household and pets, and determine where they will stay.
Households should follow the guidance of local emergency managers, who collaborate with state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies. They will provide up-to-date recommendations based on the specific threats to your community and the necessary safety measures.
3. Check On Your Neighbors
Reach out to your neighbors, especially seniors or those who may require extra assistance, to ensure they have adequate hurricane plans in place. Offer your help in securing their preparations and provide support wherever needed.
4. Stay Out of Flood Water
Households should avoid entering floodwaters, as even six inches of fast-moving water can knock people off their feet. They should prioritize their safety and steer clear of any flooded areas.
5. Turn Around and Do Not Drown
People should be aware that just one foot of moving water can easily sweep away a vehicle. They should stay vigilant and avoid driving through flooded areas. Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through flood waters at all times. When encountering such a scenario, they should turn around.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Lastly, individuals should prioritize their mental health during and after a hurricane. It’s important to acknowledge any feelings of anxiety or stress and seek support if needed. Connect with friends, family, or mental health professionals to discuss your concerns and find coping strategies.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor has emphasized the need for households to pay attention to the evacuation zones as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida’s west coast. She warned the residents, “I can say without any dramatization whatsoever: If you choose to stay in one of those evacuation areas, you’re gonna die.”
Tampa is located in Hillsborough County. The region has listed compulsory evacuation orders for those in Zones A and B, as well as those who live in mobile homes. Tampa has urged residents of these areas to evacuate as Hurricane Milton is “literally catastrophic.”
Evacuation Zones
Charlotte County: It has issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents in Red Zone-A and Orange Zone-B, including those living in mobile and manufactured homes.
Citrus County: It has given a mandatory evacuation order that began on October 8, 2024, for all residents living in campers, tents, mobile homes, manufactured homes, or any structures unable to withstand sustained winds of up to 110 MPH.
Collier County: A voluntary precautionary evacuation is effective immediately for all residents in Collier County in Zones A and B. This includes west of Airport Pulling Road and south of US-41 Tamiami Trail E.
The order covers mobile home residents and areas with a history of storm flooding. A mandatory evacuation for all of Zones A and B began on October 8, 2024.
DeSoto County: It has issued evacuation orders for Zones A (Red) and B (Orange). These areas affect all residents living in mobile and manufactured homes, as well as those in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
Clay County: Currently, there are no mandatory evacuation orders, but residents in low-lying or flood-prone areas, especially along Black Creek or the St. Johns River, are strongly encouraged to consider relocating for safety.
Hardee County: On October 7, 2024, Hardee County Emergency Management advised residents in low-lying areas, mobile homes, recreational vehicles, and unsafe structures to evacuate as soon as possible.
Glades County: This county has implemented a voluntary evacuation for mobile homes, RV parks, and low-lying areas, which started on October 8, 2024.
Hillsborough County: This county has announced a mandatory evacuation for Evacuation Zones A and B, including all mobile homes and manufactured housing throughout the county, which started on October 7, 2024.
Hernando County: Mandatory evacuation orders for all areas west of US 19, including evacuation zones A, B, and C began on October 8, 2024. This includes all residents in coastal and low-lying areas, as well as those in manufactured homes countywide.
Levy County: A mandatory evacuation is in effect affecting all mobile homes, manufactured homes, recreational vehicle parks, coastal communities, and low-lying areas west of US 19. Hurricane risk shelters have opened at Bronson Elementary for special needs and Bronson Middle High School for general population/pet-friendly evacuations.
Lee County: It has issued mandatory evacuation orders for Zones A and B, urging residents to finalize emergency plans and evacuate as soon as possible. They should aim to be in a safe location by the evening of October 8, 2024.
Manatee County: This county has issued a mandatory evacuation for all residents in Levels A, B, and C, including visitors in RVs or mobile homes, effective October 7, 2024.
Marion County: The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management officials have recommended evacuation for residents living in mobile homes, RVs, modular-type homes, and site-built homes constructed before 1994 due to the hurricane’s projected path.
Miami-Dade County: This county has announced a voluntary evacuation center for residents of mobile home parks, opening the E. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion on October 8, 2024, as a pet-friendly evacuation option.
Okeechobee County: A voluntary evacuation has been issued for all low-lying areas and mobile homes starting October 8, 2024.
Pasco County: This county has mandated evacuations for Zone C as the hurricane approaches. Evacuations are required for those in Zones A, B, or C, as well as residents in manufactured homes, RVs, low-lying areas, or structures prone to flooding.
Volusia County: A mandatory evacuation order took effect on October 9, 2024, for all areas east of the Intracoastal Waterway, including residents in manufactured and mobile homes, low-lying and flood-prone areas, as well as campsites and RV parks.
Sumter County: Residents in mobile homes, low-lying areas, or with special needs are strongly urged to consider evacuation or relocating to a shelter when they open.
Sarasota County: Residents in Sarasota County living in Level A or near Level A, as well as those in manufactured home communities or mobile/boat homes, are advised to implement their evacuation plans immediately, whether that involves staying with friends or leaving the area.
Pinellas County: Pinellas County has enacted a mandatory evacuation order for all residents in Zones A, B, and C, as well as all mobile homes. Special needs residents and residential healthcare facilities in these zones are also included in the evacuation order.
Putnam County: A recommended evacuation has been issued for Zones F and A due to concerns regarding high river levels.
Obeying the directives issued by local authorities and noting the evacuation zones ensures that families can evacuate safely and efficiently. This also allows emergency services to respond effectively to those in need.
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