Hey there, mama!
I see you spritzing those toddler jeans for the third time this week and sweeping crumbs from the kitchen table onto the floor, hoping the dog will take care of them before anyone notices that you skipped the sweeping duty again. Yep, I get it—I’ve been there too.
And you know what? Who cares?
You don’t have to be perfect to be a fantastic mom. Anyone who thinks you need to be a parenting superstar can just take a hike. That’s why I’m giving a big shout-out to all my fellow World’s Okayest Moms out there! So what if…
- …your kids haven’t had a vegetable in a week? No biggie! Life is hectic, and let’s face it, those busy schedules don’t leave much room for gourmet meals. Takeout is a lifesaver, and you know none of your kiddos are going to munch on that gluten-free, vegan, kale frittata anyway. They’ll be just fine, especially with Flintstones vitamins and Sunday family dinners to make up for it.
- …your kids’ lunches resemble something out of a can instead of a Disney movie cover? It’s still food! Who made the rule that sandwiches had to be shaped like Toy Story characters? Not you! That good ol’ PB&J with the crusts is just as nourishing as any fancy creation from another mom’s Instagram.
- …you brought store-bought brownies to the class Thanksgiving party instead of crafting mini turkeys from candy? Sure, some people have time to DIY every detail, but you’re busy living life. Your child appreciates your presence more than the Pinterest-worthy treats, and that’s what counts.
- …you hosted a birthday party with store-bought cake? Just because another mom crafted intricate invitations or personalized decorations doesn’t mean you have to! Sending out discount invites and serving cake from the grocery store shows your love just as much.
- …you occasionally let the kids watch TV? As long as it’s not Texas Chainsaw Massacre, a little screen time while you tackle that grad essay or vacuum the pet hair is perfectly acceptable. We haven’t invented robot maids yet, so sometimes you have to do what you must to get everything done—even if it means letting the TV babysit for a bit.
- …you skip pages in long bedtime stories to save time? It’s okay! You have until at least second grade before they catch on to your sneaky tactics, and honestly, who wants to fuel a never-ending tale of ducks and talking broccoli? The important thing is that you’re reading to them.
- …your kids are wearing wrinkled clothes? Laundry can be a never-ending cycle, but clean is clean, and wrinkles are just a sign of character. What’s vital is that they’re dressed and ready for the day without anyone being arrested for public nudity!
So, what if you do all these things and more? You’re still rocking this parenting gig! You’re doing just as well as those moms who seem to have it all together. Your kids love you for who you are, mediocrity and all. So embrace that World’s Okayest Mom title, fellow mamas! And treat yourself to a glass of three-dollar wine while you’re at it. Because you—WE—totally deserve it.
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Summary
This piece celebrates the everyday reality of being a mom, reassuring those who feel they’re not living up to the “ideal” standards. It acknowledges common parenting shortcuts and the importance of love and presence over perfection.