Mia Parker—an acclaimed author, actress, and the humorous voice behind the social media handle @miaparkermom—is the kind of mom friend everyone wishes they had. You know the type: the one who skips the monotonous milestone discussions and doesn’t overload you with the latest health snack trends. She’s the friend who lightens your day by openly admitting to using screen time as a babysitter just like the rest of us.
Her bio humorously notes, “Before becoming a parent, Mia led a thrilling and impulsive life filled with spontaneity. Then came her son, Leo, and everything changed. Overnight, she found herself grappling with responsibility, personal grooming, and a barrage of voicemails.” Together with her husband, actor Tom Richards, she’s navigating the unpredictable world of parenting.
We caught up with Mia to discuss the realities of motherhood and how she manages to get a decent night’s sleep amidst the chaos.
Complete this sentence: Motherhood is…
Mia: Unpredictable.
What advice would you offer to a new mom?
Mia: Stop stressing over “perfection.” Ask for that epidural! Breastfeed on your terms. If your Mommy and Me class feels like a drag, bail on it. Change your hairstyle. Hit the gym when you can. Treat yourself to something nice, and don’t forget to give your dog some love.
What’s your most recent “Oh no!” parenting moment?
Mia: Just yesterday, Leo bit me while I was trying to float him in the pool. Instead of calmly addressing it, I instinctively dunked him underwater. He looked shocked, but I think the message got through.
In the realm of parental anxiety, what’s something that’s not worth your worry?
Mia: I always thought I’d be a strict enforcer when it came to TV time. Now? It’s one of my son’s favorite pastimes, right alongside showering me with kisses.
How do you split up the more challenging aspects of parenting with your partner?
Mia: It’s simple—convince your husband that the fun parts are actually the stressful ones, so the heavy lifting falls on him.
When was the last time you used your child as an excuse to dodge an event?
Mia: Honestly, I think I had kids just to have a solid reason to avoid things I didn’t want to do.
What’s the least amount of sleep you need to function?
Mia: Eight hours, no question.
What’s the last treat you tried to keep hidden from your child?
Mia: A jar of peanut butter, because sometimes a little indulgence is necessary!
What’s your go-to drink after a long day?
Mia: A spicy margarita or a glass of wine works wonders.
Mia’s latest book, Live Fast, Be Wild, has just climbed the charts to become a New York Times bestseller. Way to go, Mia!
For those eager to explore more on the challenges of parenthood, check out this insightful post on Cervical Insemination. And if you’re considering at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers reliable kits to assist you. For comprehensive information on infertility resources, Mount Sinai is an excellent place to start.
In summary, Mia Parker’s candid approach to parenting highlights the relatable struggles and humorous moments that many parents face. From navigating sleep deprivation to embracing the chaos of family life, her insights remind us that we’re all in this together, one imperfect day at a time.
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