What is it about moms that we compare ourselves to others and then decide we don't measure up? Why do we focus on the negative of our parenting? I know I have plenty of negatives as a parent--I don't cook frequently for my kids. I don't make elaborate crafts with them or cut their sandwiches into cool shapes. I haven't taught my 9 year old how to ride a bike (I've tried a few times and we've both ended up frustrated with the other and gave up). In the mornings, I rush them and get aggravated when we walk out the door later than we would like. The list could go on.... Recently, I read something on one of my late night unable to sleep Pinterest binges that really resonated with me. I was having a particularly challenging evening after a temper tantrum by the five year that left me angry and exhausted. I was lying in bed thinking negative thoughts about my parenting. Then, I read this.... WAIT! I do those things! Maybe the nutritious lunch isn't in some cool shape, but it is healthy and I regulate how much junk they eat. Dinner time is rarely anywhere but the kitchen table where we discuss our positives and negatives of the day. Our date nights with individual girls have been so much fun this year. Maybe I'm just too hard on myself. I don't do everything perfect. I won't. This was a good reminder that while I might not always feel like I'm doing everything well (you know, this saying "Behind every great kid is a mom who is pretty sure she is screwing it up"), my kids are getting things that they need from me. Ultimately, they are loved and I know I am loved back. I'm pretty sure I'm not the only moms who needs this reminder sometimes (PS--Have the tissues ready)
