As we navigate the journey of motherhood, it’s easy to be our own harshest critics. Personally, I wasn’t brought up by the so-called “Best Mother in the World.” Instead, I had the pleasure of being raised by the Okayest Mom Ever, who truly didn’t sweat the small stuff. She is the kind of mother who defies all conventional greeting card wisdom.
Last year, my mom looked at me and my brother, proclaiming, “I somehow raised two fiercely independent adults, and honestly, I didn’t plan for it.” Oh, we get it, Mom.
Yet, despite her chaotic ways, she still expects to be treated like royalty every Mother’s Day, and honestly, why shouldn’t she? Let’s take a moment to reflect on all the “okayest” mothers who shaped us, and give ourselves a much-needed confidence boost.
You Don’t Chain-Smoke
When was the last time you looked around your home and thought, “Wow, this place really has that dive bar vibe”? If that thought has never crossed your mind, kudos! You’re likely not chain-smoking in front of your kids. Those sugary snacks your children enjoy suddenly don’t seem so bad, do they?
You Use Kitchen Utensils as Intended
The wooden spoon was practically another sibling in our family. Sure, I tried to hide it before it could be used for disciplinary purposes, but I bet your children have only known it as a tool for baking. When I mention a “wooden spoon,” my daughter thinks of cookies rather than anything sinister.
You Actually Use Car Seats
After my parents divorced, my mom took us to the Jersey shore in her tiny two-seater car. Imagine my surprise when I found myself tucked away in the hatchback for a two-hour drive home at just 10 years old! Those strict car seat guidelines? We welcome them.
You’re More Whole Foods than Hamburger Helper
When I was 9, my mom put me on a SlimFast diet — not because I was overweight, but because I was short. She believed this would prevent future bullying. Meanwhile, we debate over breast milk or formula like it’s a life-or-death situation.
You Can’t Imagine Leaving Your Kids Behind
I barely managed to announce my pregnancy before my mom disappeared from Pennsylvania to New Jersey. Nothing says “I’m here for you” quite like a dramatic exit! Let’s just say attachment parenting wasn’t my mother’s forte.
You Have a Support Network
There was a time when my own mental health had my mom concerned enough to drive two hours to drop off her antidepressants before heading back home. Nothing says love quite like that, does it? Hug your kids a little tighter, folks.
In a moment of humor, I once called my mother “The Okayest Mom on the Planet,” and she took it as a compliment. If it weren’t for her, my life would be like one of those straight-to-DVD movies you skip over on Netflix.
Every mishap and poor decision only adds to the rich tapestry of motherhood. We learn from our “okayest” moms and aim not for perfection but for authenticity. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there — your card is in the mail!
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Summary
This piece celebrates the unique and often imperfect ways in which mothers raise their children, focusing on the “okayest” moms who defy traditional expectations. It highlights the importance of self-acceptance and encourages mothers to embrace their own experiences.