Not our Mother’s Motherhood: Why Today’s Moms Need Each Other’s Encouragement More than Ever
Last night, as the children snuggled in bed with their Daddy, I took ten minutes to complete a survey for Motherly, an online parenting hub which I subscribe to and have written for. While many of the questions were about personal demographics and situation, a few touched on our outlook on motherhood. For example: “Do you feel that society does a good job of understanding and supporting mothers?” I pursed my lips together and clicked quickly. No. Then: “How is today’s generation of moms different from your mother’s generation?” Are we generally more optimistic about motherhood than our mothers’ generation? More pessimistic? I’m wasn’t certain. I could have checked…
How to Research a Controversial Topic
We’ve all seen those articles…the polarizing ones which, once shared, evoke intense feelings, passionate words, and judgment. I’ve seen and experienced how these sorts of articles — which are hallmarked by strong emotions, not strong evidence — can wreak havoc. From politics to parenting, controversial topics can spark a damaging fire, and the fire is fueled by deeply opinionated sources. As parents, there are endless polarizing topics that people are passionate about: birth, circumcision, discipline, gender roles, infant feeding, infant sleep, schooling, screen time, vaccinations, just to name a few. There are articles and podcasts and people’s experiences that argue for and against every single topic, and shame is…
An Open Love Letter to Our Village
To the people that love our family: It’s common knowledge that it takes a village to raise children, and, undoubtedly, you are part of ours. Family and friends, church and neighbors, mentors and mentees, you have come alongside of us on this journey of raising our children, and we want to thank you. Some of you are in a similar stage of life as us. You, too, are chasing around your little ones. You are empathetic to the craziness, joy, and exhaustion of child-rearing. You understand. Thank you for being our confidants. Thank you for raising your children alongside of us, for embracing the messy side…
15 Non-Fiction Books for Your Christmas List (Plus, a Gift for the Mama with no Time to Read)
What’s on your Christmas list this year? I know, Mama. You probably haven’t taken a lot of time to think about it. You’re busy shopping for your kids, your husband, your parents, your neighbors. But what would you like for Christmas? A cleaning service, a massage, a bottomless cup of hot coffee, some uninterrupted alone time? Consider adding a non-fiction book to your Christmas list. Reading is a great way to learn, gain perspective, and care for yourself. I have been on a non-fiction reading kick ever since I became a mom, and I can’t get enough. Here are eleven books I’ve read, appreciated, and impacted my…
“Actually, we don’t Celebrate Halloween”: Parenting According to Personal Values
“What are you dressing up as for Halloween this year?” the sales-woman asked. Levi looked at her, then me, and walked away. Typically, I gently encourage him to converse with the people talking to him, but in this case, I knew that I would have to answer on his behalf, since he had no idea what she was talking about. In the moment, though, I wasn’t sure how to answer, either. “Actually, we don’t celebrate Halloween. I despise the holiday, actually, and while I think dressing up little kids in various costumes is cute, I wasn’t planning on doing it with my children this year.” I wasn’t sure if I…
