Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but let’s be real—it often feels like a thankless endeavor. When else can you be summoned with cries for help when it comes to diaper duty, yet never hear a word of gratitude? Just last week, I made a mad dash back home after dropping off my daughter Mia at school to retrieve her sports shoes, only to receive a roll of the eyes for forgetting her socks.
In college, when I picked up my neatly folded laundry from the laundromat, I made sure to express my thanks to the staff. My kids, on the other hand, seem to think their clothes magically appear clean and neatly organized in their drawers overnight. If only it were that easy!
When it comes to dinner, I’m met with sighs instead of thanks. Forgetting their favorite cereal? Brace yourself for the drama! And even when I do manage to stock up, do I get a “thank you”? Nope.
Of course, I care for my children out of love—messy moments and all—but a heartfelt “thank you for everything you do, Mom” would really hit the spot every now and then.
That’s why once I became a mother, Thanksgiving quickly claimed the title of my favorite holiday. It’s a day to reflect on all that I’m grateful for and, ideally, a chance for my kids to express their appreciation as well. No cheesy Hallmark moments or messy breakfasts in bed—just a day dedicated to gratitude.
But let me tell you how it plays out. A few years ago, I asked my kids what they were thankful for. I was hoping for sweet sentiments. Instead, Evan shouted, “Poop!” Really? Strike one. Then came Ben with, “Eating ice cream.” Sorry, buddy, not today. Finally, there was Mia, who took her time to think. My heart raced—this was my moment.
“Daddy,” she declared. Daddy? The one lounging on the couch while I slaved away in the kitchen? Seriously? I carried you for nine months, and now I’m competing with a man who’s napping?
“Well, that’s nice,” I managed. “What about me?”
“Of course, you!” she chirped. Ah, the sweet relief of being included—after daddy, poop, and ice cream, of course. Ah, just another day in motherhood.
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In summary, while motherhood is filled with moments of laughter and love, it often goes without the appreciation it deserves. A little acknowledgment can go a long way in brightening a mother’s day.