12 Ways Moms of the ’70s Were Truly Remarkable

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Being a mother is a role filled with joy and fulfillment. It’s a remarkable journey that I cherish deeply. I hope my children recognize the love I have for this experience. I had an incredible role model in my own mother, who made motherhood appear effortless and enjoyable. She thrived in a more relaxed era, untouched by modern concerns like GMOs, UV exposure, or seatbelt regulations. It was surely a wonderful time to raise children. Here are 12 reasons why my mom, along with other mothers from the ’70s, were so exceptional:

1. She inspired us to embrace our individuality. Messages like “It’s okay to cry” and “Don’t judge a book by its cover” were fundamental lessons.
2. She smoked. While we know now that smoking is harmful, back then, it carried an air of sophistication, and it even led to some creative projects making ashtrays in art class.
3. She bought us candy cigarettes so we could mimic her.
4. She quit smoking. Kudos to her! I struggle to give up my Diet Coke.
5. She adorned herself with turquoise rings that clicked rhythmically against the plastic steering wheel of her station wagon while singing along to “I Am Woman” on her 8-track player.
6. She enjoyed playing bridge in the afternoons, often accompanied by strawberry daiquiris.
7. She embroidered denim shirts not just for our family but also for our cousins and even her bridge club. One of those shirts, featuring a butterfly, a dragonfly, a heart, and a field of flowers, still hangs in my closet.
8. She taught us how to do The Hustle during Vacation Bible School, right after we enjoyed Kool-Aid and Little Debbies.
9. She took us to see Grease. She was shocked to discover its themes of teenage romance, but we were blissfully unaware even after listening to the soundtrack countless times.
10. She was capable of both supporting the family and preparing meals.
11. She pursued belly dancing, tole painting, calligraphy, and Parent Effectiveness Training. Sure, we were occasionally left with a babysitter who fed us butter and sugar sandwiches, but we managed.
12. She loved reading Erma Bombeck, whose wit remains relevant today, decades later.

My mom continued to shine through the ’80s, sporting a Jane Fonda workout tape and shoulder pads like Julia Sugarbaker, always prepared with her Color Me Beautiful swatches. I often ponder what aspects of my life will stand out to my kids in the future. Will it be my yoga pants, spinach brownies, or perhaps my blog? Maybe I should try my hand at embroidery.

Disclaimer: My mother actually quit smoking shortly after I was born, but my grandparents smoked, which explains my childhood ashtray projects. Her bridge club did meet in the evenings; afternoons were reserved for pool outings, where our skin absorbed plenty of UV rays—though we were never allowed to swim right after eating.

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Summary

The article discusses the unique qualities and experiences of mothers in the 1970s, highlighting the carefree lifestyle and impactful lessons they imparted to their children. From creative hobbies to life lessons, these mothers shaped their children’s lives in unforgettable ways, leaving a lasting legacy.