Updated: Dec. 2, 2023
Originally Published: June 20, 2013
A few months ago, bestselling author Jamie Calloway (with notable works such as Please Excuse My Daughter, You Had Me At Woof, Love At First Bark, and Friendkeeping) graciously interviewed me to promote Motherhood Comes Naturally. I intended to express my gratitude for her time but ended up delaying the publication of our exchange. Better late than never, right? Here’s our conversation, and I highly recommend checking out her books—they’re truly delightful and relevant, which is something I clearly need to work on.
1. In your amusing new book, the chapters are categorized under various myths. One of my favorites was “You Are Your Own Harshest Critic.” Which myth did you think of first?
That one was definitely among the easiest to write. Just last week, my son told his sibling, who was having a not-so-great moment, that they were the grossest thing he had ever seen! And trust me, he’s seen me without clothes! The myth “It Gets Easier” was the initial concept. It’s so common for new mothers to feel overwhelmed and hear assurances that things will improve, but let’s face it—those early days when newborns sleep more than they’re awake? That’s about as easy as it’s going to get. Sorry, new moms!
2. I found your list of holidays competing with Mother’s Day very amusing! I noticed that National Bologna Day falls the day before my birthday—what are your plans for celebrating Hairstyle Appreciation Day?
Living in Baltimore, I think the bouffant is the only way to go. It’s an underappreciated holiday, isn’t it? Let’s make it a big deal!
3. You’re known for your candidness as a mother. Have you ever experienced a “scary mommy” moment that felt too intense to share?
I dive into some pretty intense emotions in the book. The most frightening feeling is when your child drives you to the brink of wanting to toss them against a wall. Before becoming a parent, I could never have imagined feeling such love and frustration simultaneously. I hesitated to include that chapter, but I realized that if I don’t discuss these feelings, who will?
4. One of the joys of motherhood is seeing someone you can judge. I once witnessed a mother giving her toddler sugar to keep him awake during a dinner party. What’s a smug moment you had?
I still remember the mother in the grocery store at midnight with her hyper child sipping on a Coke—why was that kid awake at that hour? But then, I found myself in a similar situation a few months later, at a 24-hour pharmacy with my son, who had just been discharged from the ER for stomach issues. They suggested soda might help his discomfort. So there I was, at 11:30 PM, with a four-year-old and a Sprite. I try hard not to judge now, knowing someone might be watching me!
5. I believe your book makes an excellent gift for individuals who have chosen not to have children. What kind of feedback have you received from that audience?
Those readers tend to appreciate my work! They see my books and blog as validation of their choices. I also think it serves as effective birth control—if every teenager read my book, unplanned pregnancies might significantly decrease.
6. Recently, my daughter labeled me the “worst mother in the world” for denying her an app she likely downloaded before. I used to think that mothers who neglect their kids for drugs were the worst, but now I’m not so sure. Who do you consider the worst mothers?
Oh, so I’m the worst mother too? My daughter told me exactly that last night for not letting her visit a store for the third time this month! In kids’ eyes, the worst mothers are probably the ones who care—those who ensure their children don’t look irresponsible and don’t turn into couch potatoes. However, I’ve also heard my children claim that I “don’t understand ANYTHING,” so what do I know?
This article was initially published on June 20, 2013.
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Summary:
In this engaging interview with author Jamie Calloway, she discusses the humorous and sometimes challenging aspects of motherhood. From the myths surrounding parenting to the struggles of judgment among mothers, her candid reflections provide both laughter and insight. Jamie emphasizes the importance of openly addressing the complexities of parenting, making her work relatable and validating for a wide audience.