SOMETIMES I FEEL LIKE I’M DOING IT ALL WRONG (You could win a $250 Visa gift card from Minute Maid!!!)
I suck. Yup, I am 200% sure that I am doing this all wrong and that my kids are going to grow up to be drug dealing hookers or even worse, that they’re going to hate me. Like yesterday for example. Here’s allllllll the crap I did wrong yesterday:
1. I forgot to tell Zoey to brush her teeth before school (total lie, really I remembered but I was super busy and just didn’t feel like dealing).
2. I told Holden I’d play with him. Then after like five minutes I left because I had to switch the laundry over. Then I left again because I heard the squeak of the mailbox. And then I left AGAIN because the dryer dinged so I had to stop playing and fold the laundry before it got all wrinkly.
3. I didn’t sign Holden up for any activities on Wednesdays so we could hang out together, but really us hanging out has turned into me schlepping him on errands while he constantly whines, “Are we done yet?”
4. When Zoey got home from school I didn’t tell her to do her homework and instead I let her watch television and when she asked me if I wanted to watch with her I said I couldn’t because A. I had to take a conference call and B. Her shows are mind-numbingly boring.
5. I was too tired to cook dinner so I ordered pizza instead. And when I called to place the order, the pizza guy asked me if I wanted to order the same thing we had two nights ago.
6. I didn’t put a veggie on the kids’ plates because, you know, pizza is made with tomatoes. Oh, and I purposely put my hubby next to my son at dinner because he’s wayyy more difficult and still begs to have his food cut up.
7. I didn’t believe Holden when he said his tummy was hurting after dinner and then he threw up all over the place and it even splattered my shins. Karma.
8. I asked my hubby to give the kids a bath while I pretended I had to poop so I could hide out and read my new People magazine.
9. I read the kids a bedtime book but they picked the longest one they could find so I skipped at least half the words and maybe even a few pages.
10. I sang Row Row Row Your Boat to Holden at warp speed because all I wanted to do was collapse on the couch and vedge out in front of the TV as soon as possible.
And here’s the irony of it all. This long list of stuff I did wrong is SUPER SHORT compared to the list of stuff I did right (I’m not gonna bore you by writing that list because it would sound braggy and annoying).
Here’s my point. For some reason my brain forgets to think about the good stuff I do all day and tends to focus on all the bad stuff. Because that’s what moms do, right? Mom guilt.
The other day I posted something that said I felt bad because I wasn’t in the mood to push Holden on the swing and I asked other parents if they ever feel like they’re doing a crappy job and holy moly, the comments came pouring in. Within a couple of hours, there were well over 600 comments from other parents telling me allllllllll the ways they feel guilty throughout the day. And it made me realize something.
We are WAY too hard on ourselves.
Especially since our kids think we’re doing an amazing job. Yup, while we’re busy focusing on all the bad stuff, they’re absorbing all the good stuff. How do I know? I just saw this kickass video that made me feel sooooo much better about how I’m doing. Minute Maid put it out for their new #doingood campaign and it is totally awesome and helpful. Here it is. Wait, before you watch it, make sure you have a box of tissues on hand. Seriously, I dare you not to cry.
Okay, blow your nose and wipe your eyes because you don’t want to have blurry vision for this next part. Thanks to my awesome friends at Minute Maid and Coca-Cola, I get to give away a $250 Visa gift card to one of you!!!!!!!! Yayyyyyyy!!!! Woo-hooooo, I feel a little like Oprah right now. And YOU get a gift card, and YOU get a gift card, and YOU, wait, no, only one of you does, but that could be YOUUUU!!!
Alls you have to do to win this kickass Minute Maid prize pack is comment below or on the Baby Sideburns Facebook page and tell us a quick story about someone you know who’s doing an awesome job as a parent. It could be yourself, your own mom, your sister, your brother, anyone. And I’m gonna randomly pick one of you badass people to win. Eeny meeny miny YOU. And just for shits and giggles, I’ll throw in a signed copy of my book I Heart My Little A-Holes. Here are the rules in case you have lots of extra time and feel like reading something boring.
And don’t you dare forget to tell your mom what an awesome job she’s doing this Mother’s Day.
And please don’t forget to press the “like” button and/or the “share” button on this post. Thank you!!
This prize was provided by The Coca-Cola Company. The Coca-Cola Company and Fast Horse is not a sponsor, administrator or connected in any other way with this program.
My amazing sister, who is raising 5 crazy loving adorable kids while running her own business! She is a supermom!!
My awesome mom and dad, they are always there for me no matter what and are wonderful grandparents to their two grandbabies. I am very blessed to have them.
My friend Tiffany is doing an amazing job being a Mom to 3 kids and caring for her husband due to medical happening last year.
I just took 3 days off from work to celebrate my son’s birthday. All of my coworkers made fun of me and my husband grumbled the whole month before but you know what? It was awesome! We had so much fun! He’s only going to be 2 once!
My Boyfriend Lance for stepping up to be my son’s father and my sidekick through all the parenting joys
I am working full time night shift and in school full time. I am teaching my kiddos the value of hard work, and still managing home cooked meals 98% of the time.
My mom, as every day when I place myself in her shoes she gives me strength while I picture everything she managed while raising three wonderful kiddos! When I’m doing it all wrong I am lucky enough to turn to her or at least picture what she’d do in many situations.
My sister is an amazing mother to a 7 year old daughter and 3 year old son. She works full-time and her husband is a stay at home Dad. Every day she comes home and cooks a great meal and hangs out with her family and wouldn’t have it any other way!
My dear friend Katelyn, who is raising a 6 yo and 3 yo on her own after her husband passed away last year. She’s the strongest woman I know and, when I don’t think I can do it, I just think of her and realize I need to just suck it up.
I love my kids more than anything but it seems too often I’d just rather spend time on Facebook than play a board game when they ask. Sigh.
I totally get it
I would say me, I’m a single mom to a beautiful 2 year old girl. I’m working on my bachelors degree so I can make a better life for the both of us. I want to show her that hard work pays off and you can do anything you set your mind to no matter how hard it is.
Shout out to my life long friend Greg for being Dad/Mom. Seven years ago his wife died, leaving him with three kids, 14, 17 and 19 at the time. He’s seen them through every day activities, a high school and college graduation, a marriage, a new grandbaby and the death of a niece, a grandmother and sadly the death of the middle child. Throughout this he’s excelled at his job, kept all the b***s in the air, moved to a new home, hosted family holiday dinners, learned to cook and decorate and do the holiday shopping and the list goes on. And he’s engaged!
My friend Misty. She’s due soon with (surprise!) baby number three while being a kick-a*s Mama, an empathetic social worker, and one of the best human beings I’ve ever known.
I work 1 full time job and 2 part time jobs just to help my husband raise and pay for my 3 step kids who’s mother’s are not in the picture, and to allow him to stay at home with our little one and be there for the 3 older ones during the day. Being a mom is sometimes guilt ridden and thankless, but when it’s for the kids, it’s all worth it. I definitely heart my little A-holes!
My mom because no matter what she supports my sis and I. And she came and drank with me and my friends up at college. Cool mom. Took me to get a tat on my 18th bday. Cool mom. And now she is the best grandma or (neno) as the kids named her. We all mess up.. but those mess ups make us better today. So THANKS mom!
I hope this’ll the right place to leave commentsfor the contest. My husband does an amazing job. He works full time, is an assistant chief in a volunteer fire department and makes time for our son. He works opposite shift as me so our kiddo doesn’t have to go to day care. He is an amazing dad!
My mom 🙂 not only was she an awesome mom to me and my siblings but she’s a above and beyond amazing grandmother to all of our kids!! Anyone who can handle a sleepover with 3 three year old girls is super woman in my book!!
My husband who is stuck with dropping our son off every day by himself since I have to work early more days out of the week than not.
I’m amazing….And I don’t give myself enough credit…. I work 65+ hours a week, and still manage to feed, bathe, and look at my kids at least once daily. Hehe
My sister in law is awesome. She somehow manages to work, have two small children, keep her house spotless and look fabulous! She even hosted Thanksgiving a little over a week after giving birth. Supermom!
My mom and Dad have and continues to do an awesome job as parents and as grandparents. They are now parenting my brother’s kids as he works to get custody of them — but they’ve stepped up in the meantime with compassion and grace. My nieces have been through a lot, with a mother with significant addiction issues, and with patience, love, and guidance, my parents are helping them understand a new, healthier, “normal.” I applaud their efforts!
I think YOU are doing a fantastic job. You inspire people daily. You show others that we are not alone — we are all stressed out. I don’t even have children — and I read your blogs and posts. It is an inspiration to see that people can find humor in ALL things and still have a good heart. Bless YOU! You are doing an amazing job! Keep up the great work!
My best friend is raising her two kids all by herself because her ex husband needed to “find himself”. Apparently this is something he can’t do while having a relationship with his children. She’s amazing and because of her, her kids feel safe, loved, and cherished. She’s my hero.
My friend Claire raising 2 young girls after losing her husband unexpectantly.
OMG this hits so close to home. ,I have been trying to focus and the good stuff and what I can get done vs the bad and what I don’t get done and it’s hard. I am a mom to 3 boys 5 and under and and one in heaven. I stay at home but also work at home 20-25 hours a week as a graphic designer. It is darn hard juggling all the regular stuff and working at home with these 3 little firecrackers but we make it work 🙂
I’m just going to come out and say it- I think I’m doing an awesome job as a mom. Most of the time I’m sure that I’m not, but when I really think about it, I know that I’ve got this mommy thing down. I work two part-time jobs (to one of which my kiddo tags along), and still make time to get her to her classes, play all her crazy games, and at least try to teach her a thing or two. I’m definitely tooting my own horn, but with Mother’s Day coming up, why not?
Me me. I have 4 kids and my little bro I take care of. I give myself mommy time outs where I lock myself in my room and devour a chocolate bar or 3.
I think every mom I know, is doing an awesome job as a parent… I agree with you, we are all too hard on ourselves. But the reality is that parenting is HARD, but also great and wonderful at the same time
Meeeee! I spent all of Saturday night into Sunday morning covered in toddler vomit. Then spent all of Sunday doing the related laundry. Best of all, I kept the toddler because he’s still cute (and no longer vomiting).
My friend Amanda, she is a single mom working a full time job, raising her son, coparenting with his father. Oh and did I mention she in the midst of potty training a 2 year old boy?
Me, me, me! I work full-time, come home and take care of my children’s every needs. My husband leaves for work when I get home, so I have to tackle the afternoon all by myself! AND I go to school online!
Even on the craziest of days, I know I am an awesome mom. One look at my kids’ smiles remind me of that. They are happy & healthy, so I must be doing something right even when it doesn’t seem like I am.
My awesome hubby – he works so hard all day long & has never complained about my lack of energy (I’m pregnant with baby #2, and having a terrible time)- he keeps up with our 2 year old while taking care of me when I need it (and even if I dont) he loves our daughter & loves to spend time with her
My fiance is a kick a*s parent. Not only does he provide for us so I am able to stay home with our 2.5 little girls (8 months pregnant with girly #3) he also come home and helps with the house work and takes the girls for me to have some down time. He’s a kick a*s daddy.
My amazing best friend Brandi. She has a feisty, energetic 3 almost 4 year old and is currently pregnant with a boy that is due in July. She is also currently working for a Hospice company and getting her PHD in Social Work. She is always there for her daughter, husband and her future baby boy. She’s an amazing mother, social worker and best friend!!
My sister. She didn’t plan on being a mom but she has totally stepped up to the plate! She is even babysitting other people’s kids for extra cash. She could really use this prize. Both the $$ and laughs from your awesome book 😉
My friend Jennifer is so great not only to her own kids, but to mine as well. We love her beyond belief.
My husband since he took 4 days off work to help me with our oldest since she had her tonsils out. He works 6 days a week but he always helps if he can.
My mom is my savior. I had a baby in October and went back to work in February. My mother is our “nanny”. She drives the 30 minutes/hour (we live in the NYC area) each way; she takes amazing care of my daughter (probably better than me); and she helps me with household chores. I seriously do not know how to say THANK YOU enough to her, and I certainly do not know what I would do without her. It is cliched and corny but true – I hope to be half the mom to my daughter that she is to me.
My friend Amy is seriously supermom. She’s the one I look to for guidance, reassurance, and most importantly hand me downs! Amy you are a superstar and I love your FACE!
My friend Christa is raising her niece because her sister couldn’t. She kicks all sorts of a*s for that.
My brother who is doing an awesome job. He was a step-dad to 2 kids and just last year decided to become their legal guardian and adopted them. He didn’t have to do it, he CHOSE to take on these 2 crazy kits that Have none of his DNA and he is doing an AWESOME job. So proud of my big brother!
As a first time mommy I take on 95% of parenting duties. Not only because I am the mom but because I don’t want to miss a moment of my son’s day. He’s going to be 2 in July and he cracks me up all the time and I have countless pictures and videos on my phone. Even when he’s challenging and I’m extremely exhausted, it’s worth it. Except yesterday when he woke up at 3:30 am and again for the day at 5:30 am and was sick and clingy and I could barely finish my coffee. He woke up an hour and a half after going down for bed last night and because I was “Super Mommy” all day, Daddy got to stay up with him until midnight so I could sleep 😛
My mum is pretty amazing. Granted she is in her 50s and getting up there in age, but she is doing a helluva job raising me. Not only am I now married with 2 little A-holes of my own, but I am also a Navy wife who gets to PCS every 3 years. My mom in the last 2 years has battled a heart condition, and now breast cancer. No matter how hard the crap gets in her world, she is always there for me and the other family members. I think this would totally cheer her up and put a much deserved smile on her face. 🙂
My sister is an amazing mother to my niece and nephew. She recently got blindsided by her soon-to-be-ex-husband who apparently decided he wants a “do-over” – and moved out the day after telling her so. She is adapting amazingly well, and so are her kids, thanks to her! She is so strong and I admire her so much.
I don’t always thing I’m going the greatest job, but I sure try. I feel she is a happy, healthy, thriving little girl and despite the OCD I think I’ve passed on, she’s an over-all great girl! So proud to be her mommy.
My sister-in-law. She has five kids ages 3 – 13, her husband works from sun-up to sun-down, and she still volunteers to watch my two boys, ages 4 months and 3 years. She has a heart of gold. I don’t have any real sisters, so having her in my life is a Godsend.
My mom! She is amazing!! Not to mention what a kick a*s grandma she is to my six kids ☺
I’m going to say me. I’m going through a nasty divorce right now and my ex is doing his best to keep the girls from me. But my kids are my world and during my time with them I make sure they know I love them and we just have fun or act like we normally would. I don’t let them get put in the middle as much as I can control it.
My son loves biking… like really loves biking…. is a phenomenal biker at the age of 7. My husband and I bought mountain bikes and I have committed to ride with my son once a weekend, no matter what. So far so good. My legs burn. My bum hurts. But, he is hooked and teaches me how to be better at biking. I love my little A-hole, but I don’t want to be the Mom who holds him back.
My cousin is my “mom-spiration” she is raising 2 awesome kids that are kind, loving, selfless and caring. I can only hope my kids will turn out as good as hers. She makes me want to do more as a mom.
My fiance! He used our wedding savings to fight for custody of his oldest son to get him out of an abusive household. Now, despite his own health issues, he works 2 jobs to help support us, but still always makes time to listen to our young son read books, learn football and recently to take him in the backyard to teach him how to garden. <3
Me…I am awesome mom for doing it all just like we all do everyday! Working full time mom to a 14 year old, 3-1/2 year and a kick b**t wife. Love the blog as always.
As my baby sister just graduated from the University of Michigan this past Saturday, it made me realize that BOTH of our parents are amazing. They raised myself, my brother, and my sister to be hardworking, thankful, giving, and caring individuals. They are amazing grandparents to my children. Without them, we would not be the adults we are today.
My husband is totally winning at parenting. He has the ability to make it look so effortless. He is the sole provider for our family of five and it has allowed me to stay home with our children. He goes above and beyond and I feel like it hit the jackpot with him by my side.
Myself! Most days I feel like I’m getting it all wrong, I’m not. I manage to raise 5 amazing members of society. You are welcome! They range from 18yrs to 18ms. My youngest has had 2 brain surgeries in the last 6ms that took me 2hrs from home for several days each time. They kept it together and supported each other and me, because I get it right. Because they are amazing despite what I get wrong. ❤️
My husband- I couldn’t do this without him!
My mom who raised me and my brother to be independent, to believe in ourselves, and to just “go do it”. for making me feel that I could do everything and supporting me in all my endeavors (including moving to another country at 18 for a year, then going to school far from home, and then abroad again, for telling me “go for it” when I said I was going to go teach in China for a year, then work on a cruise ship, and finally move to the US and marry my american boyfriend and settle there) even if it meant I was far away from her. Also for telling me that I do a great job raising my son, and I know she means it, because she tells it as it is (the good and the bad). She told me a really important thing: You don’t have children to keep them with you always, you have children and raise them so they can go be themselves in the world, and flourish on their own.
My best friend is a single mom to 2 kids, woking 2 jobs and going to school. She amazes me.
My sister is amazing. Two of her three children are Type 1 diabetic and I don’t know a lot of people that could have/do handle things as well as her. She never misses a beat and still finds time they all of that to make time for her other son. Awesome to know her!!
My sister is doing such a fabulous job! She’s so engaged and loving/caring. If I ever have kids I hope to be half the mother she is.
My friend Danielle took 6 kids to the zoo, including her 4yo triplets – and they all had a great time! I’d have jumped into the fountain and pulled my hair out the first chance I got!
I have a friendwho lost her husband when their son was only 2. She does an amazing job.
My mom does a great job being parent even at 32 years old. One of my favorite stories is the night we spent testing each other. We sat at the kitchen table and I tested her for her graduate school class (she was getting a double master’s at the time). After 30 min, she’d test me for my history test. We went back and forth until we knew it all. Somehow this is after she cooked us dinner and somehow managed to vacuum rugs. Its a night I think about whenever I feel overwhelmed and I don’t have 2 kids. I love you Mom….thanks for somehow being superwoman even though I’m sure you had unnecessary Mom guilt.
I’m sure my friends are fine parents but I’m still giving myself the awesome mom award. I really have no idea what I’m doing but my twins rock. They love each other and play together and cause trouble together. Clearly I’m doing something right.
I have a friend who is struggling with her son. He’s not spoken more than a few numbers or random words since he was born nearly 3 years ago this month. She doesn’t complain that her son has never said mama, or I love you. Or moans about the frustration she must feel when he’s hurting himself or others because he doesn’t know how to communicate. She’s always wearing a smile, and talking about the positives that are coming out of something that would break the hearts of many. While managing the needs of her 3 year old she also has a 5 year old that’s over the moon smart, and she always makes it a point that he receives as much attention that his younger brother requires. I don’t know how she finds the hours in the day. I have a 2 and 4 year old myself and I’m dragging by 7pm. She’s a superstar.
My best friend of 20+ years now! Has 3 kids 6 years and younger! While her husband is off on business trips weeks at a time! She is a super mom;)
I admire all of the parents who make an effort to learn more about safety in general, and specifically child passenger safety, which is a topic i volunteer my time to educate parents about. Meeting parents who WANT to learn is really an amazing thing to see!
Love your page, baby sideburns! You remind me that I am doing a kick a*s job at this parenting thing.
I make a point to ask each one of my four kids how their day was. One of my favorite things to do is getting special one on one time with them. You learn so much!
A friend of mine is an amazing mom. She has two young boys and was recently in a domestic violence situation with their father, but she was so incredibly brave and left him. Her life right now is not easy but she’s doing what she has to for her kids and she’s setting a wonderful example for her boys. I can’t say enough just how awesome she is or how glad I am to have her as a friend.
I’m a young mom that was handed a lot. I had my son shortly after I graduated high school (he’s 2 1/2 now) and then I had my daughter last year (she’s 10 months). We’re solely a one income family, as I am a stay at home mom. I put my schooling and career on the back burner to ensure that my children always have those unforgettable memories. I try to do my best, as much as I can. My main goal in life is to make them as happy as possible.
my best friend, who is raising a 3 year old and a 34 year old (technically husband) all while working a full time job… that ish is tough! she doesn’t cut herself enough slack for doing the amazing job she does! then again, do any of us?
There just isn’t enough room to brag about all the wonderfully amazing parents! Every parent is awesome just for trying, doesn’t matter if you have 1 kiddo or 20, special needs or grating on your last ever loving nerve with 10,000,000 questions! We are parents, we love our brats and would do just about anything to make them happy 😉
I’m going to do this kind of backwards… I’d like to brag about how amazing my aunt Dawnie is. She’s taking care of her mother (my Nana), & evem retired early from her job so she could be with her during the day. My Nana has had numerous issues with blood clots, a broken hip; you name it, the poor woman has gone through it. And this is after a life of raising four children on her own, working two jobs, & busting her a*s.Aunt Dawnie is now paying it forward, helping care for her mom. She even built on to her home, so Nana could have her own space. It’s like a miniature version of the townhouse she raised her children in; all in one big room. There’s lots of love there. Many days of frustration, but more love than you can shake a stick at. AND she fosters dogs. I believe there’s five or six in her house right now. She’s downright amazing. And the Godmother to my children. So there ya have it. I’ll shut up now. Lol 🙂
Pick me! I think its great to be reminded you are doing the best you can and a good job, so I am going to nominate myself and my husband….we are currently navigating 3 daughters: 16 years old, 10 years old, and 5 months old! Starting all over while both working full time and I “think” doing a good job juggling everyone. 🙂
My husband, who stopped our 16-month old daughter from running down the sidewalk to roll up her pants so she wouldn’t trip. Until then, I had assumed he wouldn’t notice things like that until AFTER she tripped. It’s the little things.
Side note: Ironic that the parents who worry are the ones who seem to be doing a great job, while those who don’t worry probably are missing the boat on the whole parenting thing.
So many days I feel like I am just “ok” as a mom, or tanking it. I had breast cancer last year. My son has autism and requires constant supervision. I work full time as does my husband. But every night we sit together as a family, even if its over happy meals, and we connect. I’m proud of that.
My husband who works full time as a mobile tech so he spends half his day driving hundreds of miles and late days so that I can stay home with our two girls. I stay home with them, do school runs, run our business from home and make sure our house is In order… Well as much as it can be with a 2 & 4 year old!
My sister! She actually sits and plays with her daughter for uninterrupted time with the TV off!
My sweet husband. I’m 9 months pregnant with #4 and I’ve been so sick the whole darn time. In fact, I’ve been sick for each pregnancy, except the ones I lost. I try my best but it’s so hard to even function so my husband has had to pick up the slack EVERYWHERE. I’m so grateful for everything he has done. So grateful he’s filled the mom and dad role when I can’t.
Not only am I doing a great job as a mom…hello, my son is 4 and he is still breathing!! But my sister just went through a divorce and she is being super mom to her 3 kids, a 9 year old and 6 year old twins!!
I have a close group of mommy friends and they are all different and all amazing in their own ways. I love seeing how we all parent. Sometimes we are similar and sometimes very different. Regardless their kids are happy and feel loved, and I am always in awe of what amazing mothers they all are.
My momma is a kick a*s mom for having put up with me and my brother all these years. My brother is 27 and recently had to move back home. While it’s annoying to our mom, she’s handling it like a champ!
My husband – he works from home while taking care of our 4 month old baby girl. However she takes up most of the day so even though he was up at 7:00 to take care of her when I left for work he will be up till 2:00 in the morning getting work done when I go to bed with the little one at 9:00 tonight. I don’t know how he’s not acting like a zombie all day.
I vote for my husband, he really is an amazing parent. We struggled to have kids, ended up having twins after 3 years of trying, have financial struggles at times, yet he always finds a way to make things happen. He changes diapers, cleans spit up, does laundry, walks our 2 dogs, and also takes BOTH of our now 7 month old boys on daddy/son outing by himself once a week. Plus he has to deal with me, a full time employee and full time mom who loses her mind probably a bit more than she should and lately can’t remember anything! If that doesn’t quality him for parent of the year, I don’t know what does! Haha
My sister is working two incredibly demanding jobs and taking care of three kids, while supporting her husband in his job change. I don’t know how she manages–I’m exhausted taking care of my one child and working full-time.
I have to give props to my mom. She’s a spry 71 yr old that drives up to my house(30 min drive) twice a week and spends the night so she can take my daughter to the school bus because I have to be at work super early on those day. Without her help I don’t know what I’d do!!
My wonderful husband. I constantly admire his patience and creativity with our kids, and he has done more than he knows in helping me try to hold it together, especially in the last 3 years.
I am finishing my PhD THIS WEEK and have a 3 year old son, who I had 2 years into the 5 year program! It’s been a crazy wild ride, and I’m one of the first of my class to finish! And my son is awesome, healthy, and super smart!
My best friend because she’s a single mom and has improved her living situation to provide a better education for her son!
I think all the moms I know are doing a great job!
My good friend Bonnie is raising two boys while going to school full time and working. Her husband is also military and gone quite a bit. She is so strong and the best mom!! Her boys are fantastic little guys:)
Right now, I want to nominate myself 🙂 my husband got transferred to a new state. ..on the OTHER SIDE OF THE COUNTRY. In staying behind to pack up our house and eait for our kids to finish school. This is the SECOND big move he has avoided doing any of the packing. Oh, and one of my three kids is a baby…so..that. 🙂
My mom, who has been such a major help since I had my baby four months ago! I’m pretty sure she has saved my sanity and my relationship many times over by allowing me to get sleep, showers, hot food, and date nights! God bless this woman. If I turn out to be half the mother she is, I’ll be happy lol…
Sometimes I feel like I am doing it all wrong but then morning comes and my 3 kids wake up smiling and looking forward to what the day has to bring! My husband works out of state after moving to Maryland for a job that didn’t work out. All our family is back in New England sooo that leaves me here with 3 kids to raise by myself. And I repeat….THEY are ALIVE & HAPPY!
Most of the moms I know are doing a super, super job, even if they doubt it themselves most of the time (who doesn’t!!). Kudos to all moms (and dads) for keeping it together! Remember, you do not to be perfect to be a perfect parent (I saw that on a billboard!)
I’d like to enter my awesome friend Misty! She has the most adorable two year old! Her husband has lost his job twice in the last year and had to take a significant pay cut when he found his most recent position (this was shortly after they had bought a new home). He is now working nights full time and she is working days (as a social worker I might add). They’re living the struggle of the working poor and doing a fabulous job raising their son! She is so deserving!
I just gave birth to our second son April 20, 2015, after battling Hyperemesis Gravidarium (complete with a PICC line and home infusions every day for 22 weeks), delivered him via VBAC (the damage there of my reconstructed v****a is definitely Baby Sideburns worthy! lol), got readmitted to the hospital three days later for postpartum preeclampsia, complete with Mag drip, and still haven’t eaten my young! Go me! 🙂
I have a dear friend who just had baby #5. Her oldest is only 7! Shes a stay at home mom and also a full time student. She is amazing!
My boyfriend Julian is an amazing parent, I know I do a lot of things right being a stay at home mom, mainly so that we are not paying someone else to raise our child how they want, but because I love being here with him daily even if sometimes I want to run away myself. But my boyfriend is welder and works long hours sometimes 6 days a week but he always always makes time for our son. They go to the park, ride bikes, play “sports” in the back yard even if he feels exhausted and I can tell all he wants to do is sit in front of the tv and let his brain turn to mush for a while. Our son also plays soccer, he has practice twice a week and games EVERY Saturday. His dad has not missed a single practice or game. If he has to he comes straight from work still covered in welding soot and grime just to be there for our son. I am so blessed to have such an amazing man in mine and our son’s life. Also currently 35 weeks pregnant with boy #2 and trying to start out as a Jamberry consultant, we will see how well this goes once baby finally shows up. =P
My husband. He is a truly modern dad. We both work full time and he just started his own business but still always makes time to play with the kids, has the uncomfortable talks with them (where do babies come from), does the dishes, wipes butts, does laundry, helps taking and picking up the kids from school, helps with nighttime routines, helps take them to and from school and still tries to give me time when I am sick or feeling bad about myself. I am so lucky and so are my kids.
My awesome Momma!! I’m a single Mom to an awesome 6 year old boy but I’m not doing it alone. Without my Mom, who works 2 jobs, I wouldn’t be able to do any of it. She works hard all day, then comes home to watch my son so I can go to work. She cooks dinner gives him a bath and puts him to bed after putting a 10 hour day in herself. Love that woman and can only hope to be half the Mom/Wife she is one day!!
My daughter is an amazing parent! I am so very proud of her.Sometimes I watch her interact with my grandson, and I can see her tenderness and love and how perfectly happy he is. Love her so much. I guess I must have done some right as a parent too 🙂
My mother-in-law who is not only a great mom to her two sons (one being my awesome hubby), but is also an awesome GRANDmother to our twins and a fantastic psuedo mom to me! She has been there for us since day 1 when life with twins was crazy, chaotic and trying. She treats me like her own, and it means the world to me to have her as my “mom”. We love her for everything she does and are blessed to have her in our lives! 🙂
My sister-in-law is raising her daughters on her own after she lost her husband last summer. It’s not easy and she’s doing a great job trying to keep things normal for them.
I have to nominate MYSELF!!! I have been raising my son for 18 years with NO help financially or otherwise from his dad. He just turned 18, got his first job and graduated high school early with his highest GPA ever! I feel like it’s a miracle! Yet, I have to believe I had something to do with it!
One of my good friends is a single mom raising three girls. She always puts her needs below her girls’ needs. She is a hard working, fantastic mother who I look up to. If I were to win, the gift card would go to her!!!
My entire life I remember my mom constantly cooking and cleaning. She was never the “fun” parent, dad always was because he was always playing and running around with us. There was always food on the table, toys to be played with, and clean clothes in my room. When I think about my mom, from a kid perspective she was my mom and I loved her dearly. She worked full time and the house was always spotless, even if we did everything in our power to prevent that. Now, as an adult it is more like Holy S**t, my mom is a super hero. I feel like I can’t keep up with her sometimes. Now I have a family of my own and my day and job is never done. I get up, and attempt to make myself look like I didn’t just roll out of bed from the lack of sleep (even though I just did) and get ready to take my 1.5 year old to daycare. I go to work from 7:30-whenever the hell my day is done. Then, I get off work and there is no time to relax because dinner must be made, then cleaned up and laundry has to always been done. Seriously, how can 3 people have so much laundry! Then I hang out with my kid, put him to bed and I get to “relax” (folding laundry, organizing something) until I finally faceplant my pillow. There is no rest for moms. Even when we get in bed we are making a to do list in our heads or on our phones. Now, i’m pregnant with #2 and I feel like i’m trying to run a marathon while having the flu on a daily basis. What i’m trying to say is- All Moms are kickass. No matter how old or young we are hardworking strong women and sometimes it is so nice to hear it from the child’s perspective. Sometimes we just need to hear that we are moms and we have the hardest job in the entire world. We do, we make tiny humans that grow up to be little jerks, that grow up to be lovely young men and women (hopefully)! So cheers to all of the mommies! Happy Early Mothers Day <3
I would take the time to brag about another mom, but this seems like a great opportunity to brag about myself! Besides, we don’t give ourselves enough cred, and I totally deserve $250 to use towards a spa day or something else. (Knowing I will most likely use it on the kiddo’s). Here is a snapshot of my life in the past week: I was successfully late to work 5 days in a row! Courageously missed the talent show auditions! Magnificently responded to 5 emails while my 5 year old read Hop and Pop! Made gourmet microwave chicken nuggets for two nights! Cared for my husband after knee surgery! Avoided teeth brushing for my two year old!
Obviously I am being a little sarcastic, but all these things truly happened, and you know what, zero guilt! I control what I can control and let the rest go. Mommy guilt is a self-inflicted prison I refuse to be chained to. I work full time and care for two beautiful healthy smart young ladies. Yay me!
The thing about teeth brushing! HAH. So true.
My self. Because i choose to give to everyone everyday. I love my family and my children, and i have a huge list of all the things i know i do wrong or guilty about. But the 1 thing i do right is allow my children to be kids. “Lets jump in the puddle together, lets eat this whole can of frosting, jump on the bed…YES!” these things make me feel better when i forget the veggies.
My friend Kim, who was pregnant with her second child when her husband was in an automobile accident and suffered a traumatic brain injury, is an awesome mom! This was 3 1/2 years ago while living in Indiana. She now has a 5 yr old, a 3 year old and has moved home to Naperville to live with her parents. Since the accident she has started her own business to provide for their family , handles all of the insurance ($#!+) issues, gets her husband to all of his appointments for speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and his many de appts. She makes decisions alone about his care and their family decisions, gets two kids to different schools along with their activities and handles any negativity with grace and strength I’ve never witnessed before. I’m sure she has her down days, but you’d never know it- she continues to show amazing strength for her husband and her children. She’s thoughtful, creative and busy. So busy!!
I think she is doing a beautiful job of keeping her family together and happy!
Her parents are pretty fantastic too! Besides having a family of four move in with them, they have raised a beautiful daughter, in every sense of the word!
Hi Danielle, it’s me Baby Sideburns! Congratulations!!! You are the winner of the Visa Gift card from Minute Maid!! Woo-hooooo!! Please email me your address and phone number at babysideburns2@gmail.com so I can have your prize sent to you, which you can use for yourself or share with your awesome friend Kim who sounds absolutely amazing!!! Thanks so much for entering!
My friend is a great mom to her 2 under 2. She is a stay at home mom who is going to home-school them…wow, what a trooper!
My friend Jamie is a crazy awesome mom. She manages to work full time, sign her boys up for every sport imaginable, and help run each of those sports all while being an amazing friend to everyone. I’m over here jealous like I work from home and still can’t get crap done! Lol
I have 6 kids. 5 of them boys and 1 girl. and only had 2 broken bones in 11 years?! That makes me awesome right?? No really tho my son just broke his tib/fib last week and is casted from the groin down! That means no outdoors fun for either of us for the next 8 weeks! This comes about 6 months after he had a rod and screws put in his femur from breaking it! I got All kids up dressed, fed, some may have eaten cookies and candy, teeth brushed and out the door on time for school. But I forgot everything and had to come home and go back. But I managed to Put jeans on today!
My boyfriend is an amazing parent. He is a single father of one girl who is 10. I am a single mother of 3 little boys, an 8 yr old and twins who are 5. He not only takes care of his daughter but helps me too. It takes a special person to help raise someone elses kids! I couldnt ask for a better father figure for my boys. He is the patient one when i want to lose my mind, and shows such love and support to all of the kids. His daughter is a good kid, and growing into a beautiful young lady. I and all of the kids are blessed to have him.
My great friend Dana who has not only given me lots of advice on parenting but also she became a very close friend whom I can tell anything too. You’re doing an amazing job 🙂
Right now I am a single mom of 3, one of which is special needs. I may be grown, and on my own, but my mom helps in whatever way she can. She bought me groceries, and helped me if I needed help with anything. I wish we all had some way of thanking our parents for the things they’ve done. But I guess I’ll start here.
My best friend Stephanie is the most amazing mother I know! She is going through a rough patch in her marriage right now and she is just the strongest most amazing woman! She has 3 sweet girls who are the most wonderful, sweet, kind little girls you will meet. She works practically full time now due to recent events and she’s just doing the best she can to be there and provide for her girls. I look up to her so much as a mother. No matter how rough things get for her, she always puts on a happy face for everyone around her especially her girls. Stephanie is the most positive up beat person I have ever met, and she always remains that way even as she presses through these hard times. I couldn’t imagine my life without her and I would do anything for her!
My amazing husband Isaac Edwards who steps up and is a wonderful father to my 5 kids from previous relationship and our one we have together he’s the best person ever
My husband, Marc is the best dad our 2 girls could have. He works the night shift, so he averages 4 hours of sleep after his shift. He then picks up the kids from school, gets the homework going and makes an awesome dinner every night!
Even though we are all grown up and have left the nest, my mom is continuing to be the supportive and caring mother she has always been. When I was finishing up grad school (and was too poor to afford a babysitter), she and my father would drive 3 hours round-trip to spend several hours with my son while I went to lab meetings and worked on my dissertation.
My sister had to have an emergency c-section and then brain surgery because of a bleed on her brain. 3 months later she was back to her old self and now, 2 1/2 years later, she’s the best mom I have ever known.
My sister has 2 little boys, and she is doing an awesome job raising them. My one nephew is 5 and you can tell the love he has for his mom. She works and takes care of her boys without a whole lot of help from her boyfriend. She has sacrificed getting herself things to make sure her bots are happy.
My amazing husband who will play outside with the kids!
My mother was a single mom who joined the army at 30! After her initial time served she went to college full time. She has done nothing but work super hard and go to school. She was a wonderful role model growing up. And the bestest friend i will ever have.
My friend Shawna is an amazing mom! She is raising her son herself after the sudden death of her husband. She takes and does so many things with her son to enrich his life, she makes me feel like a total slacker most days. And she NEVER gets a day off, or time to herself to read her People magazines while someone else does the bathtime…I can’t even imagine it!
My 18 yr old daughter is a super kid! She has been helping me raise her brother and sister since they were born- most of the time without being asked. I’ve definitely been blessed.
My best friend, Missy, does an amazing job with her 3 boys. She’s raising kind, considerate, passionate young men and I’m honored to be at her side, learning from her as I raise my 3 girls.
Since you’re talking about not giving ourselves enough credit, I shall give myself credit! I’m always so hard on myself and feel like all I ever do is yell, but thinking back about the weekend, we had several great moments and memories!!
You know who is doing an awesome job? My Mother-in-law! I moved in with her family when I was a junior in high school from a pretty crappy situation. She has always treated me like one of her own children and she made it clear that even if her son and I did not end up together, I wouldn’t be any less family. She took me prom dress shopping, she taught me to cook, she got me health insurance, she put up with endless harassment from my mother in order to keep me safe. She helps my husband and I any time she is able (which happens to be a hell of a lot). But she was also awesome before I was around. My husband had terrible asthma as a kid and she was always by his side in the hospital. She is also an amazing grandma to my three boys. She attends as many sporting events and concerts as she can. She was just at my house last night bringing over a meal because I had foot surgery and can’t be up and around. I don’t think one single little comment box is enough to express just how awesome she is. I have never met a more deserving woman.
My mom, for sitting in the hospital with me every day for a month while I had chemo, radiation, and a stem cell transplant to treat Leukemia. Even when I was too weak to say hello, she was with me EVERY DAY, holding my hand.
Also, my husband, for working full-time and taking care of the kids, then visiting me every night in the hospital. During both of my 4 week stays in the hospital, and my 2-year recovery.
My mom did an amazing job raising the 6 of us. She was truly selfless when it came to giving her time, her body, her brains, and her sanity to all of us. She passed away 11 years ago and I wish I could go back and tell her what a wonderful person she was.
My Dad because he is my rock. He is an amazing grandfather to my 3 boys. Whenever I feel like I am losing it or messing up he is there to remind me that I don’t have to be perfect and my boys love me no matter what. He is also the one to let me know when I maybe need to step up and be a little stricter. No matter what he says to me it is always done with respect and love, I never feel like he is judging me when he offers suggestions. I love my dad more than words can say <3
My bff who just had her 4th and still has managed to not completely lose her mind!! <3
I am amazing. My kids are 2, 3, and 4. We get up everyday, get dressed most days, eat food a couple of times each day and bathe at least twice a week. #winning
Debra Dragon is one amazing Mama. She is a single mother of 2 boys who challenge her heart and mind daily. There has never been a time in the 12 years I have known her, despite all the struggles, has ever been anything but super woman to her boys. She is full of energy and life! I have never met anyone who takes any task to the highest level; whether it be singing in a band, doing a part time radio host gig on a popular radio station, operating a very successful business from her home, home schooling her son, fighting every day for her boys health and education, and helping her friends (us) complete yard work (more than a 100 yards of mulch), painting, and training to run a 5k with me. Even when we were stuck in the elevator and stuck under a mattress, it was by far one of the best times in my life. Her insides are happy and we are lucky to have her in our lives. I have learned so much from her as a Mom . We love you Debbie.
My best friend MaryJo inspires me daily to be the best mom I can be. She is so awesome, even when she doesn’t feel like it. 🙂
I w
Sorry, kiddo hit my phone and I don’t see how to edit. I work full time and attend grad school and my husband picks up a lot of the slack. Whether it’s taking the boys fishing or teaching them to work cows, he does a great job.
Me. Who knew that mothering was going to be one of the toughest (yet most rewarding) experiences I have ever been through in my life. Every day is a roller coaster. And you just never know what the day holds in store for you :).
My mom…she had 7 kids…stay at home mom with 1 car…she took us everywhere with her including the 958,642 sports/activities that 7 kids have and still had a hit dinner everyday !! I have 3 and I can’t believe she did it!!! Just the laundry alone makes me feel like I’m failing!! 🙂
My mom for always being there for me and dealing with my crazy calls in the middle of the night about my twins
My mom who raised 4 kids….I have 2 and feel like I’m losing my mind all the time!
My mom is amazing!! She has always been my rock through good times and bad! The one time she couldn’t be that rock was when my stepdad (whom was like a dad to me and I loved very much) passed away suddenly with no warning in 1999. It was an honor and a privilege to step up and be that rock for her she had always been for me!! No matter what I have gone through in life or what decisions I have made, whether she agrees with them or not she has let me make them and I can’t tell you how much that has meant to me- to be able to make the mistakes I’ve made and learn from them and grow as a person has been invaluable in my life. And for those times it has worked out she has been there to celebrate with me and support me. No matter what she has always been there, always!!!
My cousin, Natalie, who has epilepsy and is a single mom, but it still raising her daughter right and giving her everything she possibly can to make her daughter’s life great. She is an awesome inspiration!
My Husband is the most amazing SAHD ever! He does the cooking, house cleaning, yard work, laundry, takes care of our vehicles, cuts their hair, and keeps our three boys fed, happy, and feeling loved. He even coaches our oldest son’s tee ball team and serves on our church council. And while I love our boys just as much as he, I don’t think I could ever be as good a stay-at-home parent. He’s awesome!
My hubby… the extreme optimist who stays at home to raise our two kids – Addi (miss independent who is 3 going on 13) and Nolan (slightly dramatic 3 month old colicky baby) during the day and works as a paramedic on nights and weekends. He makes it through my work week and told me while he wants to jump off a bridge at the thought of me playing adult league soccer on Friday nights its good for me to get out and play. My kids will learn about cooking, gardening, farming/raising chickens, fishing and truly enjoying life from him.
My mom. Somehow she managed to raise 4 kids so that we didn’t feel like we were missing anything even though now looking back…I know we were hanging on by a thread. I know that she went hungry so we could eat on more than one occasion. I am raising 1 child and want to run away sometimes, I don’t know how she has held it together for so long with the 4 of us. Strongest woman on the planet.
One of my girlfriends is just incredible. She is the momma to two boys and step momma to 3 more boys all ages 11-15! On top of making Derby cars from scratch, cooking bad@$$ dinners, having a gorgeous house, a loving husband, this Superwoman workes long hard hours at a hospital. She is my inspiration and wether she knows it or not, pushes me to try harder every day.
My sister Jen works full time at a home for disabled men, keeps a clean home, raises an autistic son, keeps him busy with scouts and ball hockey, and all while battling her own medical problems. I don’t know how she does it!
My husband does an amazing job as a daddy and tries to do everything he can with his boys that he didn’t get to do as a kid who grew up without a dad, like taking our son to Free Comic Book day and to see The Avengers movie in part to see the reaction on our son’s face.
My very best friend, Wendy, is hands down the most badass mother out there!!
She had two beautiful daughters and one amazing grandson. They are her entire works and with every year I’ve known her I have grown more in awe of her.
First of all she holds a bajillion jibs to support her family. Seriously! She is a paramedic, she handles the paperwork for her county EMS as well. She has opened her own gift boutique which carries amazing handcrafted items as well as the most stunning floral arrangements. She bartends at night. And is a wedding coordinator. Yet still finds time to be there for her grandson, her daughters, her husband, and everyone she loves!! I truly think she’s some vampire hybrid who doesn’t need to sleep…..ever!
Somehow between all if the jobs she still finds time to organize events to raise funds when someone is in need. And is currently helping her youngest daughter plan her wedding, as well as helping with the care if her grandson so her older daughter can work and go to school.
Wendy rarely takes time for herself… It is just how she is. Winning this would mean sending her a gift card with instructions that it is only for her…for a day of pampering!
My amazing Aunt. She has not only raised two wonderful boys, but has also been by my side for any and every little bit of my life when others weren’t. She has always had the ability to make me smile through the worst times and been brutally honest when I needed it most. She really is an amazing woman!!
My mom. Not only did she raise me and my 2 brothers, but now we (my 5 year old daughter and I) are living in her basement while we recover financially from divorce. She helps me out, she guides me, she loves me unconditionally. She is awesome!
Your posts keep me going! As a full-time teacher I’ve left my kids with my mom every day of the last 7 school years. She swore shed never be the grandma who babysat her kids, but the second we told her she was going to have a grand baby she refused to let anyone else watch them! Knowing the person taking care of and loving my kids each day was the same person who did this for me made going to work each day that much easier! My mom kicks a*s!
My best friend Michele is my inspiration. She has 3 beautiful kids, works part time and runs her house like a champ. She keeps ticking all the while I feel like throwing in the towel. She is so crazy busy between all the kids activities and supporting her husband, but still may be the most selfless person I know! She would drop everything to help a friend a stranger! Love this girl to the moon and back. She is my rock!
Even though my mom and I don’t see eye to eye on pretty much anything she still helps me out with my 3 kids, takes me where I need to go when hubby has the car, and supports me if I need sound advice.
I have raised my daughter on my own since she was one and ahe is turning 8 in a week. Although I feel like I fail more then I succeed, she’s pretty great and I know I must be doing something right!!
all the moms whose husbands are off fighting overseas and don’t get to see their family much. To those holding down the fort while their husbands are away, those are super moms to me. No one is perfect, no one has it all together. In the end if your kid is happy, fed and safe then job well done 🙂
I want to tell you about my mom. She worked hard for many years raising me and my two sisters by herself. I am the youngest and when i left she thought she would be able to relax and just be Nana to my nieces and nephews. That worked for a few years until one of my sisters died suddenly from Crohn’s disease leaving my 13 year old niece and my 8 year old nephew for my mom to raise. No matter how much she aches that day or how much she wishes she could just be relax she gives every bit of herself into raising those children as well as she possibly can. My mom is amazing.
I think that I am a badass Mom!! This is because I have 2 of my own Biological Children, and recently I have taken Custody of a friends 7 yr old Autistic Son. She was Diagnosed with Cancer and passed away in December. I work 2 jobs, and Juggle Baseball for both of the boys, (Jackson, is on a Challenger League, for handicapped children), which they LOVE to play. It is very difficult not to be my own worst critic, because I think that I could do better. And to top it off, I am a SINGLE mom. There is no one to help me. That is another reason that I am hard on myself. I love ready your stories, as they help me believe in myself more, and let me know that there are other moms out there like me. And WE are AMAZING Women!!!
My Sister in Law Melanie who is raising 5 kids (2 under 2!!) and handling it wIth such a great attitude and a smile. Love her.
my sister-in-law, Sarah Kravits, who has been through hell and back these past 5 years through chemo/radiation, the sudden death of her young brother, her husband’s loss of work and family income issues, and aging parent management… but still manages to show up for her three kids (10, 13 and 16) and normalize their day to day life. She smiles through it, uses a blog to get her deepest feelings out, writes and takes beautiful photos… she does so much for her family and her community, raising money for various causes, supporting friends, and helping to care for her sister-in-law and father-less nephew and niece from a distance… she’s super-woman in my eyes, though she says it takes every ounce of energy she has to get out of bed to face each new day… she seems to run totally on wanting to be there for everyone else. Love and admire her tenacity and inner strength!
My mom is essentially raising my 15 year old nephew. She has already raised her own kids and we should all be able to take care of ourselves and our kids. She encourages him, helps him with everything and I’m amazed that she still has time for the other six grandkids and my sister and I. Though I can’t imagine having to raise my grandbabies, I know if I have to I can do it.
We took out son to see the new Avengers movie. And when he choked on his rootbeer and sprayed it all over the nasty man sitting in front of him, I apologized to set a good example, even though I really felt it was karma-like.
My mom, who knows how to make anyone feel loved and valued. She listens, mentors, and makes up funny lyrics to “We all live in a yellow submarine” while dancing in the kitchen.
Well my husband and I joke all the time we stopped taking stray cats in, we have 5 , to taking stray kids in! We took our son in when he was 11 and legally adopted him a few years ago (very long story…and to answer your first question no we didn’t plan on it) and last June we took our daughters friend in to live with us (she was technically homeless). So we have an 18 year old, a 17 year old, and two 15 year olds! Only one of them is a boy! So with all we do wrong we must be doing something right!
My sister who is raising a son with autism on her own and doing a fantastic job 🙂
I’m not one to talk too much about myself, but this has been a hard year! My husband recently took a job that requires him to travel a lot! He is gone for 2 to 7 weeks at a time. We have 2 little girls ages 2 and 5. They are my whole world! I’m also pregnant with our 3rd little girl, due in 6 weeks! I work from home and a full time grad student! There are so many things I feel guilty for on a daily basis so this video really hit home! Here are 3 things I know I did wrong yesterday! I let my girls sleep in our bed, I know it breaks routine, but I get lonely! They sleep with me almost every night… I also didn’t fold laundry… I really don’t stay up in that at all… And I dug out some old video games and let my 5 year old play for a pretty long time… Like hours… But you know what? I’m pretty sure I’m doing ok because when I wake up in the morning I get to snuggle my girls and listen to their dreams. My girls like to play dress up with my unfolded sundresses, and they run around taking turns pretending to be mommy. And the video games my daughter played all day my hubby’s old NES games… And when he saw his little girl mastering Mario, it made his day:) so even though I do a lot of things that make me feel like a failure… (From meal planning to yelling) I know I’m doing ok…
My husband is an amazing father to our son. He works hard and has long hours but always comes home with a big smile for our son. He stops everything just to play with him. It is a joy to see how much they love each other. I also work full time so my husband cooks and cleans as much as (if not more often) I do. He is a wonderful husband and father!
Things are super right for us right now and my husband feels terrible that we won’t be able to take a vacation this summer. But I told him, the best memories are made by laying on our back and watching for shooting stars, making smores over a backyard fire, collecting treasures while out for a walk. These are the things they will remember most 😉
Should read,” thing are super tight right now” Auto correct hates me 🙁
Not me i love you to
My sister is an amazing Mom. She has 4 kids (ages 3, 2, and twin 9 month olds), and she some how manages to keep everything and everyone together. The patience that she has for these kids is truly amazing because with 4 little kids, things can easy get out of control. These little guys are lucky to have her as their mommy as she is raising them to be to nice, caring, respectful little ones.
I know way too many moms really putting themselves out there for their kids, and they all do an amazing job in their own way.
I watched that video and bawled my eyes out. We had such a horrible week of constant injuries! No matter where we went one of my kids got hurt…yesterday we went bike riding at our state park and my daughter lost control of her bike and toppled down a big ditch with muddy water just missing the rocks at the bottom. Seriously it was a nano second that I had to react! She’s ok just lots of bumps and bruises but, I’ve been feeling like the worlds worst mom all week. This post made me feel slightly better!
My husband, Ryan. He loves me in a way I didn’t know was possible. Growing up I was never told I was beautiful or funny or smart by my own father. I was in a violent and abusive relationship prior to Ryan that almost was the death of me. Literally. Ryan effortlessly loves me and compliments me even when I don’t believe him. He has given me the greatest gift that I can possible think of, my two children. There are days I struggle with my depression and PTSD yet he stands proudly by my side. He works 10-12 hour days so that I may stay home with our children. He is exhausted but does not complain. Ryan doesn’t have to make it a priority to snuggle, sing with, or give kisses to our daughter. It just comes naturally. He is building that self esteem and trust in our daughter and son that was not there for me. I don’t know where I would be without him.
My guy Scott owns his own business, does 90% of our laundry, and is an awesome dad to my three kiddos who aren’t biologically his own. He takes them to school when I work late the night before, he picks them up when my day shifts go long, he cooks if I’m working a night shift, and he is incredibly supportive and loving to all 4 of us day in and day out. He handles their bad days with patience and is their biggest encourager to be silly and have fun. He is an amazing parent!
My husband. He senses when I feel overwhelmed and takes charge of entertaining our 18 month old, cooking, or helping around the house. Among all else, his goal is to raise a happy child. I think that is amazing and he works very hard every day to realize that goal. 😉
My own mom, who is doing an amazing job supporting me and my brother in our own first steps as parents.
My friend who gardens and teaches the rest of us Moms to be more active outside – who’s kids also drive her nuts while simultaneously lighting up all the love in the world 🙂
Not to sound like a total sap, but my husband. My two young sons think he is the best, and he is awesome. I could write you 1,459,345,867 reasons why, but just take my word for it.
Shout out goes to my husband, who is such a great partner and team mate in helping me take care of our 2 week old son. As first time parents, we are getting adjusted to our new normal, and he is on board to help with everything from feedings to errands to making sure I take my pain meds and much, much more. He’s amazeballs for sure.
My friend Amy because she has 4 kids, has an amazing blog, cooks restaurants dishes for dinner every night and is super woman. I’m envious.
Most days I feel like a failure as a mom. I have an almost 5 year old (going on fifteen) and a crazy 1 year old (who recently got a black eye from falling out of her high chair) please don’t call DYFS. I work 2 full-time jobs including my own business that I started last year. I also run an online support group for families with food allergies. I try to juggle it all but some days it seems like an impossible feat. My husband also owns his own business so every day is a struggle for both of us to find the balance between work and home. So as I sit in my mess of a house that I am convinced that will never be clean and after working a 12 hour day and still have a mountain of paperwork to do after bedtime I look at my two girls giggling as they play and then they knock me over to give me a giant bear hug and I tell myself that I must be doing something right.
My husband. We got together when my kids were 2 and 4 and he has shown them so much love in the last 7 years than I ever imagined. He is my Rock. He has stepped up without question to be the best father to both my kids.
Every mom I know is great!
My wOnderful mother in law juanita because she has a lot on her plate and she always handles in with patience and grace!
My husband is freaking phenomenal!! He’s in the Air Force and is gone a lot and has missed a few milestones with our 10 month old, but he is still so present and wonderful. The baby lights up when he sees his daddy on FaceTime and when we pick him up from the airport. He gets up with he baby at night and tells me to go back to bed. He does dishes, tackles laundry, and chases that little boy all over the house. I couldn’t do this wacky parenting thing without him!
My mom. For raising my niece and giving her a better life. My sister in law for going through the death of a child just to bring two more into this world. And my mother in law for always supporting our dreams and even making them possible sometimes.
My younger sister! She is a single mom with two of the best, most well behaved kids I know! She has her own home and her own car and does everything without the help of my niece and nephew’s father. She is definitely Wonder Woman!
I often struggle with guilt and wonder if I am doing a good job as a mom. After all, my boys deserve THE BEST. I was talking to them yesterday because they were mad that they were in trouble for fighting with each other. As I was talking to them about it I explained that I have to give them consequences when they make bad choices because I am the only mom they have I am trying to do my best because being their mom is so important…and then it hit me, I AM doing a good job 🙂
I am going to go ahead and talk about myself. I chose to leave a marriage that was not good for me both as a person and as a mom. I still question almost daily if I made the right decision. I miss my kids like crazy when they are with their dad and I try to be as present as possible when I have them with me, but with work and taking care of the house and things, I feel like I’m always failing at something. Then, last week, my daughter scored her first goal at soccer. The first thing she did, even without looking at her teammates, was run to me on the sidelines. She jumped into my arms with a huge smile on her face, gave me the biggest hug and said, “I did it, Mommy!” She will never know how much that meant to me. I know that she doesn’t need trips to theme parks or toys or other superficial things – she needs me and my support and love.
My friend, Jenn. She is a fellow teacher and a single mom to 3 kids, including her son that has Down Syndrome. I don’t know how she does it on her own!!! It takes a village!
My mom who has raised me and my brother all on her own. Has always had to carry two jobs so she could never make it to any of our school events. Then she ended up getting cancer and her job due to all the time off she needed to treatments. Her insurance got cancelled and long story short she STILL is working, taking care of me and is now a wonderful grandma. She doesn’t let anything stop her 🙂
My parents, who drop everything and drive 4 hours when my kids are sick, or I have business out of town and come take care of my household. Laundry, dinner on the table, babies loved on and taken care of. They help pay for swim lessons and karate and so many other things, not because we ask, but because they WANT to do it. They always go above and beyond!
My sister does such an amazing job – three kids of her own and now a grandkid! Each of hers was in a different school for a while there…meaning three different activities schedules as well! I can’t even imagine!
I’ve never worked harder or longer than since my son was born. I cook nearly every meal from scratch and work full-time outside of the home. Our 3yo son is polite, friendly, open, and inquisitive. I’m immensely proud of him and of our parenting. It’s hard f*****g work and he is so worth it.
My awesome sister who is bringing home her second kid today. We took 4 kids and an infant to the store Friday while she was in labor. Like a boss! Love ya sis!
My friend and former roommate Kate is an amazing mother. I don’t know how she does it. She has 3 kids: 2 girls age 8 and 6 and a little boy age 1. Her middle daughter has a chromosomal defect which presents them with a lot of challenges. Kate and her equally amazing husband, have done an insane amount of research, doctors appointments in Milwaukee, doctors appointments at Mayo, appointments in Boston, all to help their little girl. Nothing in life comes easy for them with her, yet they have managed to do everything to make life as normal as possible for her. And their other kids? They have the most well mannered and sincerely nice 8 year old and a sweet chubby little boy who is happy. They are raising an amazing family all with trials and tribulations…oh and did I mention that they work full time??? Both of them? Not only that…but Kate finds time to call me and answer my questions about my kids when I am wondering what she may have researched. She could easily ignore me but she does it. On top of it all, she has her own health problems which she manages but always puts her kids first. She is truly amazing and when I am feeling frustrated with my kids, I think about her and how she manages her life and realize I can do better. She is an inspiration.
I would like to say it’s me, but I feel I can’t do anything right lately. My 9 year old thinks I’m the best, having a birthday party for him and getting the exact gift he wanted. My 12 year old thinks I’m “ok” but have room for improvement. But, how do I get through to my 16 year old that I’m doing the best I can with what resources I have? We have the typical family issues… I’m a divorced parent of three, the youngest on the autism spectrum. I love my kids more then anything in the world, and feel like I do have a pretty awesome list of “things I do right.” But my 16 year old assures me that I have now become the least intelligent person with the least common sense on the face of the planet. Sigh…I think I remember feeling that about my mother too. She is 81 years old now, and I think she rocks the planet! Mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother!! She is awesome!
My fiance is the BEST daddy in the world. We both became parents in college, but he stepped up and has supported the both of us. He may not have a pitch perfect voice, but he can sing “Let It Go” like a champ. He may not have a ton of free time, but he spends any free time he has with his daughter. We may not be the richest, but any extra money goes into our daughter’s college fund. Enough said. End scene. 🙂
My youngest (who is 3) is the only one that helps. From unloading groceries from the van, to clearing the dinner dishes all without me telling him to or having to become a banshee to get some help like his older siblings (5,12, and 18) . I guess I finally got it right with the last one.
My awesome mom who selfishly gives to my brothers and I and our kids. She is there whenever I need her. The older I get, the more respect I gain for her. I know there were lots of moments when she felt mom guilt and still does. She helps me through my mom guilt by listening and bringing me back down to reality.
My first child taught me to laugh no matter what happened. I was constantly worrying about whether I was doing it right, was I a good enough mom, was she happy, etc. One day, she got ahold of a brand new tube of 8-hour wear lipstick (of course she grabbed the new expensive red one lol). While I was working on placing my Avon order (former rep), she was playing in her room. She kept running in and out of my room (where i was working),her room, and the bathroom. She was having fun so I let her run (I know, bad me, no running inside). The phone rand and she brought it to me (good old home phones lol). My mom had called to chat and the whole time, my daughter kept giggling and staring at me. I walked to the bathroom to see what had her so tickled about my head. I had to ask my mom to hold on because there was red smeared on the phone. Pulled it away from my cheek and I was very red lol. She had smeared that lipstick down into the buttons and speaker. It was a mess! I had a very clear image of the phone on my face and lipstick in my ear ROFL. As I turned to ask my daughter what happened to the rest of the lipstick, I saw where it had went. My bathroom was COVERED in red “kisses” from the floor to 3 feet up. I laughed til I couldn’t breathe. My mom thought I had lost my mind. I told her I could either cry about it or laugh and laughing was much more fun. Those “kisses” stayed on the walls even after washing (red lasts forever, I swear, lol). I had to repaint when we moved but that moment will always be with me. She is a teenager now and laughs at the stories I tell about her and her siblings. I must be doing something right 🙂
My boyfriend is amazing! He’s not their dad and we don’t live together. But he’s been with us for almost 4 years and he’s their stepdad in all of our minds. When he gets off work and comes to my place for dinner, he immediately starts picking up the stuff the kids have left around the house. He tucks them in. He helps them clean their rooms and keep them clean. He runs around outside and plays with them to help get their energy out and give me a break. He deals with my Aspie’s meltdowns at times and handles them so much better than I do! He’s one of those awesome dads that “didn’t have to be.” But he doesn’t give himself enough credit for it. I wish he could see himself the way the kids and I do!
My mom. She is not only an amazing mother but she uses her days off work to watch my son so that I can work full time. She’s the best grandma and I have learned how to appreciate her a lot more knowing how hard it can be to juggle work and kids along with everything else!!!
I would nominate my grandparents. They are in their early 80s but watch my boys when school is out and over the summer. They truly help the boys and miss them horribly when they are not there.
I make my kid laugh. I make funny faces, I say silly things, I dance like an idiot. All to hear that genuine belly laugh. In between all the rushing and yelling and stern faces and other craziness, I try to remind myself that the most important thing as a mom is to be her best friend.
Me! I am working really hard to balance my career, my child, and my friends! My 8MO even kept both of her socks on today woo hoo!
Most of the moms I chum with are amazing moms! They work full-time, lovingly run their kids to activities, cook real meals most nights of the week and still take the time to “play” with their kiddos. From the outside they look like super-mom. I’m guessing they go through the same struggles as you and me. That there are just not enough hours in the day to give 100% to everything. That every day we need to make the choice of which things are getting the 100% that day. We just do the best we can and in the process try to minimize the mommy guilt. 🙂 🙂 Love BabySideburns ~ it’s my guilty pleasure to read your blog entries 🙂
I’m a single mamma of three beautiful girls. I don’t need a prize to do what I do…but I’d love one!!!! Lol love u baby sideburns
My wife. I could list a million and a half reasons, but truth is she’s a stay at home mom who busts her b**t 24/7 to help all of us every second of every day. Amazing mom. Amazing wife. Period
I am going to have to be completely honest…. It’s me. I do the best I can do. I work 40 – 50 hours a week. I am in Junior league to try and have some sort of community involvement. I coach my childs softball team. I maintain my household paying all the bills and I do most of the cooking. Now my hubby is a great help but this isnt about him is it? I b**t my a*s to have a good relationship with both my 7 year old and my 18 month old. I do things wrong all the time. I snap at my kids when I shouldnt. I forget to get their hair in a ponytail for dance or I forget a sippy cup and have to buy yet another one at the store. I am a mom and I an doing the best I can.
now I have a fantastic mother and grandmother but you said…. who is doing a great job as a mom. I like to think it is me.
A friend who is a single mom of three, has survived cancer, loss of her mother, broken down car, crappy ex husband yet still manages to move on. She amazes me. Faces so many struggles but picks herself back up each day.
A few people came to mind, but the one that I’ll speak about is my brother. He took financial responsible for a child that wasn’t his, because of the relationship with her mom. Although that relationship has been long over, he still parents and supports his daughter and now has a very active role in his grand daughter’s life!
I do believe my cousin Anna is doing a super great parenting job under extreme conditions… she is raising 2 kids, one girl and one boy along with her husband Mike. When hurricane sandy came and wiped out new York and new jersey, she did not escape the wrath.. her house was destroyed and let’s see… it’s almost 3 years later and they still have a hundred thousand dollar gap between what insurance covers and what they need to rebuild. So since then they have been living with her parents, my aunt and uncle.
She just keeps going! I would have been paralyzed with fear and depression but she keeps taking on more and more… she was looking for a girl scout troop for her daughter to join but all she got was waiting lists so she started her own daisy scout troop!!! Amazing to me! So with all the other stuff on her plate, she is now troop leader of 8 little girls on Friday nights! My hats off to her!
My we’d Danielle for choosing to be a stay at home mom and take care of our 2 year old Arya. She gave up a career in hotels to be with our daughter and I will never be able to thank her enough!
My wonderful husband, I am a SAHM and there are days when I feel like I am losing my mind, he comes home from work sometimes after 12 hour days and just knows how to bring calming and peace to a hectic household. He truly is exactly what you are speaking of.
When I met my hubby he had 2 young kids already. We had 2 more together and have been raising all 4 ever since! I feel like im doing something wrong daily… but at the end of the day when im tucking my kids into bed and they wrap their arms around me and say ‘I love you’… I KNOW im doing something right. 🙂
My sister is an amazing grandmother. She juggles so much but says she endured 12 cancer treatments to be here and she is going to enjoy life. Love her.
My friend and I are single parents. Me being a single mom of course complain about the lack of help we get from the dads… however my friend is a single dad. He is super dad!!! He not only raises his boy with all the love and respect in the world but has taken my 2 young boys under his wing as well. He is the coach of their little league team and teaches them all the dad stuff like fishing and swimming in mud holes. Takes them to the races and teaches them all how to skate even though he fell more than they did he got up with them every time. My boys are so lucky to jave thos man in their lives. He is an amazing father!
My Friend Cailly who works as an ICU nurse 2 nights a week, gets 3-4 hrs sleep on those nights, and STILL has a smile on her face for her 18 month old son those days. She manages to make homemade food for him, see clothes and knit baby gifts for him and her friends kids and even makes time for play dates. She may require some wine to get through all this and she may let her kid watch morning cartoons so she can have her morning coffee in peace and her son may get called by all 3 of his names at times. I think all of this makes her a Fabulous mom! I just want her to believe that!
My sister-in-law is a stay at home mommy of 6, ages 9-1. She also homeschools them, so she is with them ALL THE TIME. She has a heart of gold, and will do anything for anyone.
My brother is doing an amazing job as a parent. We found out 3 months before his first baby was due that my mother was moving out and my parents getting separated. It’s never easy, even in your late 20s. My nephew is now 4 months old, things are easier, and he is doing such a great job supporting his family so my sister-in-law can stay home and watch their child. It hasn’t been an easy adjustment, but we’re all getting there.
A very good friend of mine she’s been through hell and back but always puts get kids first she’s fought cancer 2 times she’s dealing with her son who is 4 and has leukemia and about a week ago her appartment building caught fire and she lost everything except the kids and the clothes on their backs I would love to be able to help her out by giving her this visa card
My girls are smart and sweet and a joy. Even though sometimes they fight or throw tantrums or have too much screen time. We had the best weekend at the park and shopping and playing monopoly junior that I was sad to see it end. So I guess, even though I don’t usually believe it, today I do feel like I am a pretty kickass mom. I am guessing none of us give or get the credit we deserve and that is a shame.
My dad’s fiancé. She has a son who is now a teenager and it shows in his attitude everyday, his father is still alive and is there to anpoint. But she does everything for him on her own. She has raised him into such an amazing young man, even when his attitude shows. When my dad met her she took me and loved me as her own even though she truly didn’t have to and when I had my daughter she accepted her too no questions asked. She is an amazing woman doing good day in and day out. She’s more than my dad’s fiance she is my mom and an amazing and beautiful blessing in our lives each and every day.
My sister is an amazing mom. We both became first time mommas just 5 months apart, she had her baby girl first, then I followed with my sweet baby girl. She has been the best guide for me, a constant support for me, an excellent listener, a sincere advice giver and never judges me when I come to her with silly questions. It’s so great to have someone so close to be on this journey of motherhood with.
My daughter Nichole who has been Air Force for 14 years.She is a single mom and has given me the privilege of helping to raise her children for the last 10 years! Some days I say I am too old for this but I love them so much. I just would not change a thing!!
I think my sister in law is doing an awesome job as a parent. She has 3 children, she works as an attorney, and she makes it look so easy . I know it is not easy but she has a relaxed and easy going attitude and I think that helps
My mother in law who raised three of her own kids and now her granddaughter (our niece) because my sister in law is absent. She’s handling it all with such grace!
My awesome DH who is an incredible step father to my two girls!
My sister who home schools 3 amazing kids, one of which has special needs. They are in many activities as well. She is a supermom in my eyes!!
My daughter’s amazing father. He is so engaged in her life from reading her a million books, building with legos and Lincoln logs, taking her to the park and everything else he does for her.
This is about myself. I am a Mom to a 3yo and 2 yo twin boys, all boys. Additionally, I am a wife and care giver to my Husband who is a disabled veteran. My Husband served our great Country for almost 10yrs, missing the birth of our first Son. He came home a different person after losing 2 of his soldiers. We are homeless and rely on family to let us live with them while I am a stay at home Mom looking for a full time job and helping my Husband with all of his Doctors appointments. I never do anything for myself which is just fine, but for once, I would like to and this gift card would help me do that.
I think we are all doing an amazing job, and deserve a big hand!! Some of us work outside the home, or raise children on our own (or both!), some of us have help, and at one time or another most of us feel like we are doing it wrong. But we should ALL know that we are doing it right and and while it isn’t always easy, it is always worth it! Happy Mothers day to all of you!! xoxoxo
My sister-in-law is a kick @$$ mom! I honestly don’t know how she does it, she must not require sleep….Anyway she (and her hudband) are raising two amazing little kiddos. Their birthday parties are something right out of pinterest, they do day trips to educational places, she is going to school, but works full time as a nurse, her house is clean, she makes time for her own social life with friends and date nights with her hubby, and she always looks put together…She does all of this with a smile on her face and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Quite simply, she is supermom!
My mom I never realized until I became a stay at home mom myself, what she sacrificed! She would get up with my Dad to make coffee in the morning -too early! I also don’t recall her ever taking naps, so I’m already slacking in that department!
My mom didn’t resort to alcoholism while raising my sister and me. That deserves an award, or gift card. Because we were definitely little a-holes. More my sister than me.
My Mom! Not only did she raise two remarkable daughters (if I do say so myself) she is a big part on helping to raise our daughters while we work. And might I mention she reassured me that I was doing everything right on those I did everything wrong! Love her!
Ugh forgot a word: *on those days
I was told several times yesterday at my sons confirmation what I wonderful job I’ve done! I rarely feel it, especially when he’s being a typical mouthy teenager, but it’s good hear!
My sister passed away 6 years ago and my brother-in-law re-married a wonderful woman who is in the process of adopting my niece. She is raising my almost 8 year old niece as her own and is a wonderful influence on her. It takes a very special person to love another’s child as unconditionally as she does!
I would say my mom for raising 4 kids on her own and showing me her strength and independence that I gained from her! At times I feel like I never get a moment to myself, but then I stop and think that one day I won’t have all this crazy running around to do from one sport to the next or one school function then off to a doctors appointment! I love my twin boys and daughter and wouldn’t change anything. My husband is very supportive and helps just as much and we both work full time. I couldn’t imagine our life without our kiddos. Well I could, but I wouldn’t want that life!
I am a PT who works with children with physical disabilities. The moms I have worked with over the past 24 years of my career are amazing! The ultimate compliment I ever had was when one of them told me I’d be a good mom someday!
My fiance. He sometimes works 14 hour shifts, gets 4 hours of sleep, and still has energy to play with our almost three year old son.
I’m discovering that the myth of teenage girls driving parents out of there minds isn’t quite true my 13 yr old son has way out there hormones hair has to be just right clothing too and you will have to pry his smart phone from his cold deAd hands lol cause it ain’t going anywhere . I’ve recently made lots of calls to my folks telling them how sorry I am for how I treated them and when you tell your kids wait till u have some it will come full circle.
My mom who raised my brother and I on her own and eventually worked three jobs to support us and our home. She was always patient and understanding. She’s been gone nine years and never met her three granddaughters but if I can be even 1/10th the Mom she was…then I know I’m doing good.
My sister in law is doing an amazing job. She has been there for her girls through a nasty divorce and supported her girls and kept them upbeat even when the father kicked the oldest out.
My sister’s and I just lost my Mom. I have never experienced such heartbreak in all my life. We, as a family will take my Mom’s ashes to Hawaii in November which was her dream and I will honor her wishes no matter what. We are all doing our best to save every dime to make this happen! And, we will, I have no doubt! I am writing this in honor of our Mama. I have learned that no matter how rough your childhood is – there is always a lesson. It made us survivors! We were very poor and my Mom worked full time, yet usually not enough money for food or a place to live. I became the next ‘Mom’ in line for my sisters. Yes, we struggled. It was hard and humiliating – the kids without a lunch, the kids who never went on a field trip or could pay for the Home Ech. class that required $10.00 …. but, we grew up, we overcame all obstacles, and are one! We may have never had a thing – but we had each other. No toy, peanut butter sandwich or new pair or shoes could have replaced that. Our Mom did teach us to love each other and be grateful for things like a beautiful sunset – a pretty flower, a smile from someone. All the stuff we as people probably don’t take the time to appreciate. I nominate my Mom – who gave me the greatest gifts – my sisters and am eternally grateful. I appreciate all every day and blow her kisses in heaven – until we all stand as one again.
I think I deserve an award for not shipping my kids off to Hong Kong or at least leaving them in a closed box (eith he’s poked in it of course)while I take a bath
My husband works nights so he is gone all night, sleeps all day, and in between would rather play video games then help, so I basically feel like a single parent. I work full time from home which is just pure insanity when you have small children that need all your attention and don’t let you sleep at night.
I don’t trust anyone to watch them (not like my youngest would take a bottle anyway) and my mom passed away two years ago so she isn’t here to come help, so I never ever never get a break, I’m lucky if I get to take a shower without every member of the house coming in to p**p (why they put toilets so close to the shower I will never know).
Recently I sold off several things I loved but never got time to use like my Kindle (after finishing reading your awesome book of course- which took me two months because it was usually while in the urgent care waiting room) so I can pay for my oldest to have a birthday party this Saturday instead of me getting Mothers Day or celebrating my own birthday. All while she acts like a huge t**d for a week straight because she has been out of school sick and has cabin fever because I’m to busy working and for some foolish reason decided to hand make 98% of her party stuff to be able to leave the house.
We live pretty far from town so if I do manage to leave the house it’s a mad dash to get 10,000 done in a few hours so I can get back home to work.
Pretty much I work 24/7, any one that doesn’t believe that can come co sleep while my youngest kicks them in the back or face all night or will only sleep while latched on the b**b and tell me it’s not a night job.
But still not matter what i would do anything for my kids to have a great childhood. Even if it means I won’t get to eat a hot meal or sleep again until they are in college. So if I won I would spend the money on my kids because they are spoiled little boogers but it would give me a few days off work to relax and actually enjoy some time with them and not be stressed out about making a few measly bucks working non stop.
Haha love number 7. We are too hard on ourselves, though, one thought or action that isn’t perfect during the day and suddenly we are the WORST PARENTS EVER….but really? hugs, hugs, hugs and love and if we’re doing that, I think we’re doing okay. Better than okay, even.
My sister is an awesome mom and grandma. She lost her husband to cancer 20 years ago and raised three young daughters on her own. They’re all grown, successful moms themselves now. I’m proud of my sister and think she’s awesome.
I think we are all supermoms. We handle more on a daily basis than even the President. We can never turn off. We are always on. In our sleep we even have to listen for those late night calls or vomit hacking noises. We fill every minute with conversations answering all the but why questions. We are nurses, best friends, teachers, therapists, taxi drivers and so many more.
I have been the girl scout leader for all three of my daughters’ troops. I’ve raised two amazing girls and still working hard with the third one. I’m proud to be able to spend Mother’s Day away from two of my girls so that one of my girls can watch her boyfriend graduate from basic training. It warms my heart just to see them that happy.
I am gonna give myself props for being a good parent. I constantly beat myself up and am always ridden with mom guilt because I have to work a full time job. I leave my little one at daycare and I swear it breaks my heart each time. My oldest will ask why I can’t pick him up from school everyday or why I can’t be a “home” mom and I feel ugh just like a big pile of p**p! I try my best to make our quality time perfect but there’s always laundry and housework that needs to be done< again with the mom guilt! I make sure they are happy and well cared for, that they have what they need and some of the things they want. I show up to school things, I play ring around the rosies a bazillion times some nights, I try my best at this mom thing and gosh darn it I'm doing a good job!!
Quite a few people come to mind, but I would say my friend Kristin is a kickass parent. She ALWAYS puts her kids first. She has three little girls. She gave up her corporate world job to stay at home with these beauts, and sacrificed a lot (no cell phone, no cable, no glamorous shopping sprees, etc.) But, really, that isn’t much of a sacrifice when you get to spend all the time in the world with your kids. She thinks she fails daily, but I honestly think she’s winning more than the rest of us.
To start of my mom is amazballs! She seriously went above and beyond to give me and my sisters what we needed and didn’t make a huge deal about not being able to afford stuff. She went without things that no one should have to go with out and she paid for it( like she lost half her teeth because she couldn’t afford to go to the dentist) instead of spending the money on things like that she bought me and my sister school supply’s and clothing. And not only that she took in my dads older kiddo whenever she needed(4 years older than me) even when they weren’t together she took her in and is now raising her kiddo. So not only is she an amazing mom she’s a awesome grandma! I like to randomly tell her thank you and that I’m sorry for being a little a-hole when I was little!( cause now I know her pain my sons just like me)
So most days, I feel like I’m doing pretty well with a 7 month old. I got my mom card kinda late (age 37) and I believe I have more patience than I would have, say, at 27. But this weekend, Baby Girl didn’t feel well and was super fussy. Like, up all night, fussy. A couple of times I snuck into another room and let her cry for a few minutes. But there are baby monitors EVERYWHERE so I couldn’t get away. I really wanted to call my mom, and say, “please come get this baby!” But I didn’t. I toughed it out…..with some help from Infant Tylenol. My mom, however, does awesome stuff like play patty cake and is probably the best mom/gma we could ever ask for. Seriously. She is amaze b***s. Babies are hard. They are awesome, but hard.
My “adopted” daughter April. In her early twenties and has two generic children and four foster children. (4 Teenage boys at that). She loves them all and does her best to make them all upstanding young men – and one incredibly loved little sister! She is also in college. I know it’s a lot for her, but she handles it with grace and a beauty that is profound! (Shout out to her husband also! He’s an amazing man)
My husband is an amazing Dad. From horsey rides on his back to swinging together at the playground, he reminds me to have fun with this whole parenting thing
I’m a single mom raising 5 awesome kids. Their “father” doesn’t have anything to do with 3 of them and barely sees the other 2.
I’m gonna pat myself on the back and say I’m doing a d**n good job because they are all kind, loving, caring people who each also have an amazingly sarcastic sense of humor 😀
My fiancé is an amazing parent. I know it’s almost Mother’s Day but when I met him he was raising three great kids on his own and he completely stepped up and became a father to my daughter and was amazing when our surprise son came along. That’s right, he’s an amazing dad to all five kids! And not only that, I have a chronic illness and he works full time and takes care of me as well without ever complaining. He is the rock of our family and I don’t know what I would do without him!
My Mom, who just passed away in October. She was the best, & I know this because I miss her like crazy!! I know that because of her, I am an awesome mom! I didn’t have a dad around growing up, so my mom was the one outside teaching my brother how to throw & catch a football & baseball. How to kick a soccer ball & even how to work on cars. She painted my toes & put ribbons in my hair. I miss her soooooo much! If there was ever a perfect mom, she would be it!
One of my best friends left her teaching job to teach at the district where her kids are going–and absorbed a $10,000 pay cut in the process. That money is worth it to her to be where her kids are and make sure she’s involved in their education.
My husband. He has incredible patience for our 3 year old son who has autism spectrum disorder and can be a handful. He is always up for taking him to the park to burn off all that energy, playing trains (over and over again) or play-doh for the 15th time that day to give me a rest because I am pregnant. My son adores his dad and I’m so lucky to have him. Oh, and he’s also a great cook, too 🙂
My friend Andrea is always doing things for her kids. She has 4, younger 2 teens, so activities friends school play dates ect. And though Andrea feels like a bad mom some days, I know she is not. She wakes up every night with one or both of the little ones…we all know that the hope as a mother is that by 1 your kids sleeps through the night, but not her kids. 4 and 1.5 they are both horrible sleepers. Leg aches, night terrors, and just regular illness she is always up lulling them back to sleep. She makes dinner most nights, and when she works in the evening she always has something planned for her hubby go feed the kids. (Because honestly most men are shocked by the idea that they could look in the fridge and make food, lucky for them they have us). She is a caring but tough parent and I have no doubt that her kids will grow up to be adults you don’t hate.
I know I am VERY hard on myself so this video and blog was a refreshing treat today!
Regarding who’s doing a great job as a mom, I called my mom last week to tell her she did a good job with me. I believe I always strive to do a great job and try to be responsible and I think she had a lot to do with that! Yeah mom!
My husband is an amazing father. He works full-time only to come home and take care of the kids by himself since I work 2nd shift and am not home. He also has to fit in homework as he is in the home stretch of earning an online business administration management degree. Despite all that he makes sure our two kids are not only safe and fed and bathed, etc., but that they feel loved and cherished every day. He never fails to take time to make up silly games or songs or teach them something new. He’s the best dad I know.
My friend Nicky. She is an amazing Mom to both her kids. I have learned so much from her and am now using that knowledge while raising my own kids.
My cousin, she is raising (and homeschooling) 6 beautiful boys ♡
My grandmother is an amazing woman and mom. Shortly after her courageous and victorious battle with lymphoma, I lost my mom when she was only 48 to colon cancer and my grandmother lost her daughter. My mother was the most loving and generous woman on the planet. Losing her was the worst experience of my life. I helped take care of my little brother and thank God we had our grandmother. Her faith and resilience has gotten us through this awful time. I’d love to do something special with her with this gift card. She is 91 years young and my rock. Thanks for reading 🙂
My amazing best friend. She is raising her own three children, her sister’s two children and just took in her teenage half-sister to help her get on her feet. She works full time and manages all of these kids. I know she feels like she fails a lot, she has told me before how she feels. As an outsider, I can see that she is doing an AMAZING job and has a heart of gold to match. She truly is a superwoman.
My girlfriend just had her third baby. I went to visit with my almost 2 year old and walked in to her peacefully nursing the baby, helping her 2.5 year old who was up all night with a cold, and keeping tabs on her 4 year old. Newborn was only a week and she had on a cute outfit! No yoga pants! And she then was getting to make a home cooked meal for the whole fam. Oh, and she told her hubby who had worked long hours to take a nap when she was on no sleep. What?? I was so impressed with her positive attitude and go with the flow style..:reminded me to get a grip when I am struggling with just one! So refreshing and impressive!
Myself for leaving a toxic relationship when o found out I was pregnant with out second. I have been doing it 100% alone emotional physically and financially ever since!
My mom, who made sure my brother and I always had a fantastic Christmas or birthday, even if my parents didn’t have a lot of money. We always had cakes and presents and parties no matter what. We never went hungry, we never went without everything we needed, and we were happy. She went above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing childhood, and she did all this while she ran an in-home daycare, and had to deal with the aspects of my fathers military career. Now that I am grown with 3 kids of my own, she still does the same thing, always makes sure my kids have what they need. I don’t go a day without talking to her, and we even have the same career now. She’s my best friend and I don’t know what I would do without her.
ME. Because I said so! No really, me because I have 3 kids –10, 5, & almost 1– (need I say more????), I’m in school, & I’m taking care of my husband who is dealing with PTSD issues. Life is CRAY right now, but I’m rocking this ish the best I can. HUZZAH!
I need to remember that I am an awesome mom. I said something about being a horrible mother (after I was messing around and beaned my preschooler in the head with an adult-sized softball) and he gave me a hug and said you are not a horrible mom, you are a great mom and I love you. Ahhhhh
this is a dad shout-out, because i feel too often all you hear about are the bad stories. my husband is an amazing father. he and my daughter are best buds. he gets offended when people say he is babysitting. “no, i’m parenting” he responds. we split all childcare responsibilities 50/50 and he patient, kind, and silly with her. he is a great dad.
My mom and mother-in-law, who both live near me and watch my beautiful daughter 4 days a week minimum so I can work, every 2 weeks while my husband is away at working. We couldn’t do it without them. #supergrammas
I spend a little time try to make my son’s lunch special so he knows I miss him during the day.
I also just played Old Maid for the millionth time with my daughter.
All my mommy friends that feel the same mom guilt that I do, but encourage me that we all doing our best and the right thing for our families!
Even though I’m grown I feel like my mom has done an amazing job With my brother and I. I’ll be the first to admit we weren’t so easy on her. But I always learned to keep pushing because of her. She’s a cancer survivor and deals with ongoing health issues on a daily basis. But in the end even through tears I can always rely on my mom’s advise and smile. I believe I’m the mom, wife, and successful business owner I am today because of my mom.
I know husbands aren’t typically the ones getting the kudos, but my husband is amazing and has been especially over the last year. I have lupus nephritis, and I almost died last year due to kidney failure. The whole time my husband worked 50-60 hour weeks to try and make up the lost income and cover medical bills. And then he would come home, fix dinner, do housework, and take care of the me and our 2 kids! He rocks! And I don’t know what I’d do without him!
All the amazing moms out there. We all do our best even though we think we suck! I think we need to celebrate each other and know that we are all kick a*s moms.
My amazing mom Who is not only there for me and my sister but takes care of my grandmother who had a stroke 5 years ago and then takes on the job of watching my 11 year old son and my 15 year old daughter every summer for the past 4 years while I work two jobs. She says it is her way of having time with them but I know it is so that I can catch up on my stuff as a single mom.We forget to say thank you a lot but she does it all every day. And would be lost without her.
My best friend Brandi who is raising her adorable little boy while finishing grad school and writing her dissertation!
My best friend since grade school! She has FIVE kids and she is only 31. She homeschools ALL of them. And she doesn’t do it in a lazy way (like I would.) She makes activities for them, worksheets, incorporates video games, tons of field trips and outside activities….did I mention the youngest is UNDER one? I would totally be like, here watch this educational video..every single day. SHE IS AMAZING.
Every day, I try to be the best example for my two girls, 13 and 4. Some days it’s just being a good example of how to be humble and apologize. 🙂
My best friend who is raising three rowdy, amazing, boys (including one on the spectrum) on her own. She is supermom!!
My stepmother as she went back and got her ged and then a college education be a good example to my brother. All while raising him.
My Husband, for staying home with a cranky toddler and sick preschooler on Saturday, so I could go to a M2M sale and lunch with friends.
My Daughter in Law is doing an awesome job at parenting. She works full time during the day, takes classes toward her nursing degree in the afternoon and evening. She still takes time to either do homework or bathe kids so she has one on one time with each one, as does daddy. Study time for her may not start until 10pm and end at 3am, yet she still finds time to go to soccer practice and games. Make cupcakes or cookies for class parties and have a great relationship with her hubby, my son. (He is a huge help also).
When someone pointed out to her that she won’t have her nursing degree until she is 30 she said “On my 30th Birthday I will still be 30, whether I have a nursing degree or not.”
My mother in-law, who as I write this, is watching my toddler again. She loves spending time with him and us. She’s also the reason I have pictures of my boys.
I know SO MANY great Moms! I would have to say that I am a KICK A*S Mom. I have an amazing 16 month old son and he has changed my life in so many ways. I am so lucky to have him in my life. I beat myself up everyday that I go to work. I have the WORST Mommy guilt. But I know that I have to work to support him and our family. It is the hardest thing I have ever done though. I was able to take 6 months off to spend with him, which was amazing. I get to see him for about 3 hours/day and then all weekend. So during that time I make the MOST of every second. No phone, no TV. Just him and I playing, singing, reading, running outside. He is growing up before my eyes and I don’t want to miss a second!
My sister is an amazing mother. She pretty much raises her 3 children by herself and rarely complains. She is beyond devoted to her children and always makes time to do special things with and for them.
My mom and dad are awesome parents and grandparents! They raised 4 healthy, smart and successful and were great role models so we all now can collectively raise our little humans into fantastic, respectful, and hard-working adults. I feel very blessed and am extremely greatful to have such wonderful parents as well as grandparents for my children.
My now husband. I met him and my new stepson 2 years ago, when my stepson was almost 2 yrs old. His biological mother had abandoned him at 3 months of age-she just left, during the day, while my now husband was at work. He lost his job and almost lost everything else he had in order to stay home and take care of his little boy until he could get the resources back together again and afford to send him to daycare-and he had no experience with babies previously. My husband loves his son so much-he would do (and has done) anything for him. He lost everything for that little guy, and went without for a long time-and then I came into the picture. Now I’m “mama” to my stepson, and I’m the only mama he’s ever known. It just about broke my heart when I heard what had happened-but to see the strength and determination my husband had to push through such adversity to overcome makes me proud. So even though it’s Mother’s Day this weekend-I’m going to treat him to a little something nice anyways-because for awhile-he was both Dad *and* Mom! 🙂
Being a mom is hard- this ad demonstrates how we all feel sometimes. I can’t tell you how many times I make the sarcastic comments “Mother of the Year” when I feel like I’ve messed up. My husband and I both work full time, and have three kids under five. I often feel like I’m not doing enough. But when I get home each night, they run to me and yell “Mommy!” with such excitement, that I realize they think I’m doing just fine.
There are many that are doing a great job and not giving themselves enough credit! Almost every mom I know works harder than any person who is not a mom. No matter if you have 1 or 25 kids, they all work hard and need to be recognized for all their hard work.
I’m going to give a shout out to myself, since I really don’t do that often enough. I’m a single mom of four working two jobs. And while I normally focus on the negative, my kids are happy, healthy, all in activities that I managed to get them to albeit usually late.
My amazing friendand her husband who adopted 2 children (brother and sister) after their children were all grown up.
Definitely my mom! She has been a mom since the young young age of 15! Had 3 kids by 19 and now she has 7 grandchildren! whoa! Lol always helping out when she can! Super mom right there!
Hi! First off let me say, as a nanny your page is the best thing I have ever read in my life! And since I nanny one of the best moms I work with is a mother of two and both kids are quite a handful. (Which is why I am around a lot) her son had to be put into military school because of his failing grades and anger problems and her daughter is also one who struggles with anger. Despite her kids behavior problems this mom I for for always handles herself like a lady and always cooks dinner for her family every night and wants the best for her children. She always is hopeful for them that they can succeed. Also on top of all that! She helps her husband with their own business for home inspections! This woman is the Strongest and most amazing woman I know! Perfect mom ever
I think we husband is the best Dad ever to our son. My father was not around when I was a child and I would dream about what a father would be like. I wanted one who was involved in my life, who would play with me and take me on adventures as well as help me study and be sensitive to my feelings. My dreams came true just not for me but for my son. My son has the best father ever but I get some credit because I picked him…Right:)
My awesome best friend is a super mommy! She stays at home with her two girls, 4 and 2, and is expecting her third this summer (seriously I tried to warn her about having three lol). Her husband had a career change a few years ago so he works six days a week to build his business while she takes care of everything at home. I know there are days she’s tired or not feeling well but she still manages to take her kids to school, dance class, mommy and me class, the park, play dates, cook, clean, wipe noses and tears and like a million other things that stay at home mommies do to keep their kids fed, clean, happy and healthy (aka alive). But I know like most moms she probably doesn’t recognize her own awesomeness so this would be a nice surprise 🙂
My little sister makes me o proud, and gives me inspiration to do more for my family. She’s amazing. I would write more, but there isn’t enough room!!
My mom is the best mom. She not only raised my sister and I well, but now she helps raise her grandchildren. My husband and I work early (like4am) and my parents watch my boys overnight. She keeps my youngest to nap in the afternoon so I can have alone time with my older after he gets out of school. She watches them through all the meetings that suddenly come up, the shifts that run long, etc. She even moved from San Jose to San Diego when we moved so should could help take care of them! I’d be lost without her
My Parents! They gave me the greatest gift; they adopted me and accepted me as their own. They always say I was their greatest gift, but honestly I couldn’t have been placed with more fitting and wonderful parents. They taught me to love unconditionally, look at life with appreciation and understanding, and grow with each lesson that comes your way. I now have children of my own and I would not be the mother I am today if it wasn’t for how they raised me and continue to lift me up as a grown adult today.
I am doing such a great job that my littles had ice cream and hotdogs for dinner Friday night after sports and ice cream and chips from the gas station Saturday for lunch after soccer in the car during our hour and a half drive to my mom’s for her birthday, followed by ice cream cake for dessert after dinner. I felt like a major fail until they informed me that this was the funnest weekend ever and I remembered Thursday I made them homemade trail mix complete with Apple and banana chips….. sometimes life happens…..
My stepdaughter goes to school by her mom’s house about 45 minutes away from our house. She comes and spends the night once a week. On the mornings she has to drive up for school she has to leave by 6:45. I get up early to make sure she gets breakfast, make her lunch and hang out a few minutes before she leaves.
I feel like recently I did a good job being an awesome mom. I’m busy working and going to school, so I as well find myself print stuff off with my kids. Well this Sunday I put everything down and went to play last tag with my boss for an hour. It felt good to not worry about anything and to laugh. And most of all I could innocently take out my aggression on my boys!! Lol
I feel like I do a lot wrong as well, but the one thing I KNOW I am doing right is raising our 7 (sometimes 8) children, ages 16 to 6 with the knowledge that everyone is worth being loved. We are a blended family and my husband and I are very proud that we manage to do it without ever talking badly about the other parents (3 sets in our case) and we are teaching our children that EVERY part of them is worth everything, even when we don’t always agree. Their other parents and step-parents are worth their love and affection. We do everything we can to facilitate a loving and open relationship with everyone and never make them feel as if they have to choose who to love more.
So as a mom who feels least among moms I have to say we all are amazing in our own way. As a single mom to four kids I feel I fail more than I succeed, so I am thankful for the amazing man who entered my life and supports me through the insanity of it all.
My cousin and best friend, Jessica, is the BEST mom I know! While chasing around her toddler all day, she still finds the time to clean, exercise, AND cook healthy food for her family. I don’t know how she does it because frankly, I would rather watch Netflix, kick toys under the couch, and order take out.
My sister is a single mom raising 5 kids. One has autism and another has cancer, and she still manages to work.
My Son just turned 3. Nobody told me 3 was a zillion times worse than 2. In the 2 weeks since “the change” I’m doing darn good navigating tantrum after tantrum followed by huge floods of tears and i love you mommy’s without completely losing my Sh*t!
My awesome husband who’s had to be a total Mr. Mom to our 4 year old and 2 year old while I’ve been kicking breast cancer’s b**t!! From dropping off and picking up from daycare, grocery shopping and cooking, taking them to doctor’s appointments (and going to mine!) he’s had to just about do it all and he’s proven that he’s the best father ever!!
Our awesome receptionist (whom I consider my friend) here in our office. She’s a single mom, and I don’t know how she does it. She has a well-raised 11 yo daughter (who’s penmanship is like typewritten in an elegant font) and a charming and smart 4yo boy. Even her kids wonder how she affords to give them their things. She’s wackily funny here in the office, but she seem so proper and diplomatic with her kids.
My amazing mom: she was my super hero. She never thought she was strong, but she was my rock and my best friend. She was a SAHM and made me want to follow in her footsteps. I miss her every single day.
Definitely my husband. He is a disabled stay at home dad. He has the patience of a saint and deals with all the crap from the kids that I would go running and screaming from if I was home with them all day.
I am most proud of my son who is a great role model for his boys. Especially since he went through a long “bad boy stage” as a kid. Swore we were going to have to spend holidays visiting him in Gander Hill prison. Ugh.
Somewhere along the line he figured out how to be a great Dad to our two fabulous grandsons. Love them all.
My husband has been leading the charge on potty training our 2 1/2 year old daughter. While she sits on the potty, he quizzes her and asks her what every item in the bathroom is (the only way to keep her sitting still for an extended amount of time). She’ll tell him “Daddy – go to sleep!” and he’ll go lie down on our bed (where you can still see into the bathroom when the door’s open) and fake closing his eyes and snoring. When she finally goes, he dances around the room making up little song and celebrates like she just won the Nobel Prize. She LOVES it!
Then I take over, as mother of the year, and we watch Shrek, Shrek 2, Shrek 3, and Shrek Forever in succession. That’s like a million hours of screen time in one day. It’s not every weekend or all the time, but man, some days you just need to sit and veg!
Ummmm, me? This patenting sh*t is hard
My sister in law is an awesome mommy! Becoming a mommy is hard at any age but when you’re 42 it is a lot harder. Plus she has dealt with her little man having a milk protein allergy and it has definitely made sleep scarce. Even exhausted and not always knowing what he little man needs she smiles, loves him more than anything, and is one great mom! Oh and did I mention what an awesome aunt she is to my 3 year old son?
My mom is awesome because she outfits everyone in our family with homemade quilts, not to mention edible goodies. I will toot my own horn (doesn’t happen often!) for unwittingly teaching my 6yo to pick up any litter he comes across.
My friend Lori, she’s raising 3 boys, 1 of whom is in remission from brain cancer ( he is 6, diagnosed at 4). Every 3 months she has one of the 4 worst days of her year, as her son gets scans to confirm he is still cancer free. He just passed 15 months with no evidence of disease found. She has fought long and hard for him, and he still faces a long road ahead, with learning disabilities and growth problems caused by the cancer treatments he underwent. she continues to stay strong and is one of the toughest mamas I know!
I would like to nominate my husband Aaron Peavy, for the chance at the gift card. Almost 9 years ago, my two oldest children’s father got on a bus to California, and did not return. At the time, my oldest son was 6, and my daughter, only 15 months old. Fast forward, and we now have 4 kids. Jonathan who is 13, Karalynn who is now 8, Logan who is 5, and Leanne who is 2, and has brachial plexus palsy and hypotonia with signs of SPD. Since the day my husband came into his step children’s lives, he has never thought of them as anything but his. He has treated them with absolute respect, compassion, love and caring, exactly like he does with the two children we have together now. Sometimes, he doesn’t think he is a good parent. He only see’s the things he cannot do, and not all of the things he DOES. Being a good parent doesn’t always mean how much you play with your kids, or have time to hang out with them. I believe it is mostly how much you sacrifice in order to give them safety, security, and the chance at a better future than their parents had. Aaron works 7 days a week to support us, making a little over minimum wage, just so I can stay home with our youngest to help with her difficulties. Two of those days, Saturday and Sunday, he is not actually at his regular job. He is up at my mothers, restoring her mobile home for her. Replacing floors, walls pluming, all because that is just the kind of man he is. I’m not sure if step-parents are suppose to be included in this, but my Husband is more of a father to my kids then their actual father ever was. I would love the opportunity to have him recognized for everything he does as a father. For all of the nights of homework he has helped with, for all of the help with cleaning, laundry, cooking, on top of working himself to the bone as a machinist, all for the sake of his family. He may not think he is a good parent because he does’t have time to play ball in the yard with my children, but if it was not for him, our family would not exist. Thanks so much for your consideration, and yes, the video made me cry 🙂
I am a mother of 3, a five year old boy and three year old twin daughters! I feel like I could be your twin! I laugh so hard at your posts because it is so me! But, I am nominating my mom for this because she has been here for me any time I fall. She keeps them any time and would do anything for the kids. She is amazing, and I only wish to be half the person she is with all of her medical issues!
My Mom who retired to take care of her grandkids so they wouldn’t have to go to daycare. She’s amazing!
I am trying my best to bite my tongue and let my son have a little bit of independence. He just turned 5 and on a visit to my parents house, he was working with my dad in the garage. When I saw my dad letting him use real hacksaws, tin snips, and anything else he could find in the garage, I almost had a heart attach! I just had to tell him to be careful and go upstairs where I couldn’t see. I couldn’t even watch the video my dad too of him “at work”.
My awesome sister, who raised her three children, often on her own, and now has stepped up to raise her granddaughter. She thought she was done with caring for young children, but when the need came, she did what needed to be done. Now my sweet little (great) niece is being raised in a happy, healthy home.
My twin sister runs an in home daycare during the day and has a part time evening job. Her husband works long hours and lately she has been feeling as though she is drowning in a sea of motherly duties, but all I see is a great mother of a “threenager” and sometimes gets the short end of the stick when it comes to getting a some grown up time.
I love #8 and may have done that myself.
My SIL is doing a great job. She has a 7 month old. We all know what it’s like to have a new baby and juggle all the new things and what-to-dos. She’s doing a great job handling it all with a smile, but still dealing with the reality and the chaos.
My best friend Stacey. She is such a strong amazing admirable person. She’s not only a wonderful mother to AK but also has the strength to mother her sweet son in heaven. She is such an inspiration and I strive to be more like her every day.
My son’s birthday is coming up next weekend. First, the bad. I haven’t bought a single gift for him yet. Now the good. I let him invite 3 boys to a movie, sleepover and day at Adventure Landing (go-karts, putt-putt, laser tag and arcade games.) I already bought the movie he wants to see on Blu-ray and since he wants them all to sleep in the finished attic,I’ve been working like crazy trying to get the attic clean & presentable. I
My mom who watches my kids for me constantly whether I am working or feeling crappy or what. She is always there to support and help me through the everyday slog of parenting. I never appreciated her or even got along with her before I had my own kids and now I thank God daily for giving me such a wonderful supportive and loving mother. She is a true gift.
My Mom who has always been so selfless and strong. Has taught her 5 children to be the best people and parents we can be. Love her so much!
I always struggle to feel like I’m doing a good enough job. I’m trying to raise our three kids, and we have another on the way! I’m a young mom (26 with a 7, 4.5, and 2 year old) and always feel judged by everyone else and end up judging myself as well(especially when my bipolar rears its ugly head). But when I cry, my kids want to know what’s wrong and if they can help. When we have babysitters, they always comment how sweet our kids are. I must be doing something right!!!
This honorable shout out has to go to my sister! While I think I’m a pretty kicka$$ new mom to my 6 month old my sister has worked effortlessly as a military wife and mommy for 11 years. My niece and nephew (now 11 and 8) are respectful, healthy, independent kids that I can only hope for my own. She has moved her family all over the country – from Cali to FL to NJ back to Cali and helped her kids adjust to making new friends and loving each of their homes along the way. I envy her ability to do this all with ease (or at least make it look that way)
My husband is an amazing stay at home dad. He didn’t want to be. But he is supporting me completely in my career and loves our little shits a ton, even when he hates parenting.
This makes me think about my mom who passed away 14 years ago. She had 5 kids and my memories of childhood are amazing and I can still feel her love. I am sure she sacrificed a ton and never had a minute to herself yet we never knew that. I have 2 kids now, work full time and I often find myself wondering how she did it with such grace and patience. I have mom guilt a lot and hope that my kids can look back at their childhood and remember the love I have for them and not the times when I am impatient with them.
Days fly by, I just plug along and sometimes forget to take a step back and marvel at the wonder that is my daughter. Thanks for the reminder!
I know I forget tell her often enough, but I think my mom is pretty amazing. Raising two kids single handed. Working a handful of jobs to support brother and myself while going to college full time. Only to become disabled a few weeks before graduating. I am very thankful she raised me to be a strong woman such as herself. I now get the greatest joy in watching her be an even more amazing grandmother to mine and my brother’s children.
My husband (believe it or not)! He suffers from chronic pain and fatigue following cancer treatment. Somehow he still manages to be the more “connected” parent. He snuggles, tickles and wrestles the kids until they’re blue in the face…meanwhile I’m the one with my head in the dryer and vacuuming the floors. It takes both types to keep a house running, but it takes love it make a house a home.
I think I am doing pretty awesome since I am eight months pregnant with my third child and I haven’t resorted to having the tv on all day yet.
This blog continuously makes me laugh. I feel like we could be long lost friends or something because the things you say could come right out of my mouth on a daily basis. I don’t give myself enough credit but I think I’m a d**n good mom. I have two boys with my husband, 2 1/2 and 7 months and a step daughter that may not be biologically mine, but couldn’t be more mine if I gave birth to her. Things aren’t perfect all the time but who has a perfect life? We do the best we can. Although, looking as some people’s FB posts you’d think they live like “Leave it to Beaver.” Highly unlikely! Thanks for making me laugh, cry, and know I’m not alone in this crazy life!
My friend Jen is an amazing mom. She is open and honest with her two kids whether she is wrong or right. She stands up for herself and her beliefs in front of her children even risking friendships. She leads by example.
I am a single working mother and I am pretty sure i do more bad than good with my poor, yet amazing kiddo. He is literally my rock , my helper, my mini me. He is sweet and kind and has a great sense of humor, despite me constantly working, being tired and dealing with my diabetes. He is patient and eats almost anything, so i can say I am super lucky to have him. But he is also 6 years old, and he whines and cries and tells me I’m mean, and it REALLY hurts because it’s true. But at the same time, when i feel like i just can’t do it all, on my own, anymore, he wraps his little arms around me and tells me he loves me, and that i am doing a great job. It makes it all worth it! I LOVE your blog and look forward to it every day! (or week, whenever i have time to actually read it!)
Thanks so much for this one, really hit home!
My mother-in-law is my hero. My sister-in-law is physically/mentally handicapped. My MIL sacrificed everything for the past 32 years to make sure my SIL is taken care of. We were supposed to go on a family vacation 2 years ago with my MIL and my SIL got sick the day before we left. We had to leave without my MIL and it broke my heart since she needed a vacation so badly. I try every single day to be like my MIL.
My sitter and dear friend Tab is an amazing mom. Not only to her three kiddos but to the past and present kids she watches during the day! She always has time for me to drop by for a hug or to text me a smile when I feel exhausted! She has become such a dear friend to me and she is rocking being a mom!
My awesome friend is a mother of 3, one with ADD, one with Autism AND she’s a military wife! She handles all their needs without even appearing stressed! She’s a rock star!
My amazing sister in law. She is a SAHM with 4 kids, all under the age of 9, one with cystic fibrosis and she’s 8 months pregnant with baby #5. She also home schools them all!
I have a lot of great friends who are parents, and I’d also like to put myself in the list. I work full-time, but yet find time to be intentional about the time I do get with my kids!
I am a great Mom! I mess up regularly, I curse out loud on occasion, the laundry piles up in heaps, the dog eats barbie’s head and throws it back up etc. My kids are healthy, happy and I am thankful for the opportunity to give them learning experiences each and every day!
I’m gonna say me because I work full time, have 2 girls, 3 & 5 and they like me more than their father and I haven’t killed them yet! =-)
My sister is being an amazing mom. She is a single mother who would do anything for my nephew. Instead of pressuring him to do things she encourages and lets him have and do different things like have a collection of Up&Up from Target she is letting him have this on a shelf where he can proudly display the items. Your writing and stories sound an awfully lot like my sister.
I’m raising 3 kids in one state while my husband lives in another for work. I made the sacrifice to live 300 miles apart so my older 2 kids wouldn’t have to live with their bio dad and be miserable. I feel bad that my youngest misses out on having her daddy all of the time but this won’t be forever.
I would have to say my wife, 1) putting up with a crazy hubby. 2)and even more important being a wonderful mom to our 3 kids (9 yr girl, 6yr and 6 month old boys).plus working full time, all the while making me smile. Example , when our 6 yr old was in day care ( he had the distinct honor of getting most time outs and being the busyest child).He snuck up during nap time and painted there door, i was mortified, my wife laughed it off and said they should have kept it, and not cleaned it, cause he might be a famous painter or a ninja. (I am leaning towards ninja). 😉
Our friends, Katie and Travis. Katie’s mom suffered from a paralyzing stroke during the time that Katie’s father was going through the final stages of colon cancer. Katie and Travis wanted to have a baby but it took a very long time to get pregnant. Once they finally did, Katie was sick nearly her entire pregnancy and then had to spend the last 6 weeks on bed rest. Their beautiful baby, Teegan, was born and shortly after that, Katie lost her father to cancer. Since Katie’s mother is now disabled, Katie had to become the executor and deal with the stress of finding a nursing home for her mother and the stress of handling arrangements with her two other sisters. This is all before Katie turned 30. Her husband Travis has stood by every step and Teegan is now over 1 year old and is the most amazing little girl. She just had surgery today to put tubes in her ears for chronic ear infections but due to the examples set by her parents she comes through un-phased and smiling.
My sister is a single parent to identical boys, who are almost 9. She and her ex husband do a phenomenal job at co-parenting, staying on the same team, and keeping the boys needs first. She shares custody, 1 week on & 1 week off. She is so strong to work full time (a job that is physically & emotionally demanding) and raise her boys, while being strong during the week that she doesn’t have her sweet boys. She is truly amazing & doing a fantastic job!!!
My sister-in-law and every other mom who is a tireless advocate for their kids with special needs 🙂
Love your blog! Please pick me!
That video has a great message, I often struggle with feeling guilt about working full-time and making sure I spend enough time with my miracle boy who turns 3 in July. It seems like by the time I get off work, pick him up from day care, get home, make dinner, wash dishes, it’s already time for bed. I try to make daily activities a time for bonding; singing songs during bath, playing silly games while I put dishes away, etc. He is my world.
My friend larissa goodsell. She has 3 kids and home schools all of them and works. She is so good with them and her kids are amazing!
I know 2 couples who each are raising 3 kids including one with special needs. They are fierce advocates for their kids and somehow manage to balance all of life’s demands while doing it.
Also, my husband quit his job to become a SAHD, and he’s amazing. I envy his patience and commitment, and love watching him and my son interact.
My sister has a daughter in college, a daughter in kindergarten, and a son in between. She is raising these kids by herself and doing an AMAZING job. Her kids are awesome!
My mother in law! She retired to stay home and take care of my son so that my husband and I could both work full-time and I could finish up my bachelor’s degree in computer networking with a concentration in Cyber Security. She also watches her mother and does a million things to help me, my husband and our son anytime we need help! She rocks and there is not enough anything in the world to show her how much we appreciate everything she does!!!
I am raising a 3 year old boy and I have a 15 year old step daughter. Some days I question my sanity, but most days I love every minute of it!
My sister-in-law is an awesome T1D mom, taking great care of and advocating for my nephew with type 1 diabetes. Not only is she a super advocate for him, but she is an awesome mom to his younger brother, making sure he gets plenty of attention too.
My mom is beyond amazing! Everyday I strive to be like her. I’m going through a very difficult time in my life and my mom has not only been here for me but for my babies as well. My son is 3.5 and my daughter just turned 2. My mom has stepped right up and has helped me with everything. We are best friends, always have been and always will be 🙂 My mom is the definition of unconditional love! I’m so blessed to have her in mine and my children’s lives. Since moving in with her not only have I begun healing but so have my babies. They’ve blossumed with all the love and kindness my parents have shown. Having my marriage and life fall apart is the hardest thing I’ve had to face, not doing it alone has been such an amazing blessing. I love you mommabear!!
I know this amazing mom. She has 6 kids. Homeschools 5 of them, and still has time to be the fundraising chair for a local profit. Her kids are awesome, well rounded, reasonable children. And she’s always willing to lend a hand abd watch someone else’s kids when need be. She doesn’t fret the small stuff, like crumbs on the floor, dishes in the sick etc when guests arrive. She’s truly a inspiration on how to handle things gracefully
My friend Serena is doing a fabulous job as a single mother raising her daughter to be smart, funny, and creative!!
My Mom who is currently taking care of her aging parents without complaining.
My little sister who had to endure a divorce and our father’s passing from cancer all whilst raising her special needs daughter and trying to find work and a place to live. She did all of this at the same time with a smile on her face. She is the strongest person I know and I want to be just like her when I grow up.
Man, this hit home after a morning battle with my 5-year old as he tried to smuggle a soccer ball to school in his backpack! I raise a glass daily to my friend who has 4 kids and always seems calm and collected. She just rolls with the punches and always has a smile on her face. Love that she is a great role model when I’m worried about the little things.
I’m going to say myself! I have three boys, 7, 5 and 3 and they don’t stop. They don’t stop fighting, running around, talking, playing-they just don’t stop. I work part-time from home and have the younger two here with me most of the time. I am amazed I don’t have more gray hair, or any hair at all. I love them more than anything, but man they can drive me crazy. That’s what kids do, make their parents crazy to see if we appreciate them when they are grown.
I have to give it up to my hubby here. He stays home with our 1 and 2 year old. He sucked up all his man guilt and put his future on hold to support me in my career and make sure our kiddos are getting the best.
My sister Sarah. She has always been my best friend and second mother. She taught me so much. She has raised her daughter 18 and step son 13 plus numerous other kids. Just a week ago she gave birth to her second daughter at only 28 weeks. She baby is doing great but is so tiny and only weighs 2lbs 2oz . Not only is she holding down a household, but Taking care of this tiny baby in anyway she can. She hasn’t even been able to hold her baby yet. She also is insulin-dependent diabetic, but she refuses to give up pumping milk for her baby even though very hard on her. She is amazing and the love she has for all children is breathtaking. She is my hero
My sister is a brand new mom of a 6 month old. She lives in California and her husband is a fire fighter. Therefore he is gone for a couple days at a time. She works from home and is breast feeding which is exhausting. I think she’s amazing.
Sarah McMahon mn
My mom is an amazing women who has shown me how to be an awesome mom. She has held me tight when I needed it through losses and hurt and also during the happy times. She is happiest around her kids and when we are happy. Mom has taught me to enjoy life and that family is more important than possessions. She is always thinking of us and helping us through life even now that we are out of the house. Now that I have a family of my own she is still helping me with my toddler and my infant twins. Now she’s not just an awesome mom she’s an awesome grandma too! Love you mom!
My friend Sarah who raises her four kids with love and a sense of humor.
I am a mom to a beautifully brilliant 3 year old girl. I was not one of those women who has a baby immediately loves her. I had a baby and panicked. How could I still be me and a mom. It wasn’t until she was about 3 months old, I had just got her to sleep. I looked at her resting peacefully and suddenly I was overwhelmed with love. I mean it was a true awakening to my feelings. Everyday since then I battle with loving her and loving myself. Trying to come to some equal balance of her happiness and mine. When I focus on my happiness I feel like I’m neglecting her, and vice versa. It’s a day to day struggle. But when I’m having a moment of doubt she almost always can sense it, and I get the biggest sweetest hug. She hugs me, simply to say she loves me. And I know she’s too little too truly understand, but I now understand she loves me…And I love her. And it doesn’t matter if all my time is spent with her, or if I chose to spend time on myself. She loves me the same every hour of every day, even when I mess up.
I have lots of Mom Guilt, but I choose ME for doing a hell of a good job! My two year old was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes this January which has been rough and life changing for my whole family. Last night after putting my toddler to bed I wanted to fall asleep right where I was, but I got up and went to read to my 9 year old. I will continue to push myself to make time for my older child who also deserves my love and attention!
I don’t know how she did it, but my mom got my sister and I safely through our childhood. No really, I have no clue! Send help now!!!
My best Friend Katie. She is raising 3 kids plus a hard to handle step son and she does it all with grace and love. I am in awe of how much she does and she always gives a helping hand to those that need it. To top it off she took in 2 foster kids. Always smiling always loving.
I always hate myself and think I’m doing a horrible job at raising my daughter. I have a very sick husband and he’s becoming more and more mentally I’ll. He drives me crazy and sometimes I freak out. But my daughter will always tell me I’m beautiful or that she loves me more than all her toy s and friends. I always tell her she’s my favorite everything and we hold each other together. She makes me feel like I’m doing it right:)
I vote myself. I have two crazy boys. 12 and 3 and a half. And I’m pregnant with my third. Its been a rough pregnancy and I’m only half way through. Been on bed rest twice already. Still working full time. And trying to house hunt. I could really use this. Especially your book. 🙂
My sister. The father of her child wasn’t exactly thrilled to be having another child so she’s raising her baby on her own. I couldn’t even begin to imagine doing it alone. I am so thankful for my husband that is here helping me raise our child. My sister has had it rough but has just trudged along and is doing a terrific job.
My sister is the best!
My friend Bailey is a mom to 2 boys and 1 girl, all under the age of 5. She is always coming up with creative crafts and activities!
My amazing wife who stays at home, with our kids and raises them. I got to be a stay home dad for a week while she went on vacation and man staying home with the kids is the most challenging job I ever had.
I am spending all of my energy as a stay at home mom and I am doing the best I can do.
All the mom’s I know are awesome so since I can’t write about them all I have to choose me…for once…me. I am a work at home mom, constantly updating all my hubby’s art related websites,social media, print stuff on top of client work. On my hour lunch break I managed to throw together a dinner but sometimes I work straight through and it’s pizza…and the kids are SO upset. I put aside 2-3 hours a week to go help out in the class and a few weeks ago volunteered my time to make the school their own little 10 minute video talking about what the school is all about – YEP for free–and they were ALL in it. My payment was the joy on their faces while watching it, feeling like little rockstars and my kids thinking I was pretty cool. I also plan like 100 playdates a week plus make time to spend one on one time with them each day, even if only 10 minutes. I strive to sign them up for all the things that will one day help them fulfill their dreams and drive them all over every day to these things. I could go on and on…;-) I know they appreciate all of this because each day they tell me so and that lets me know I am doing a good job. 😉
My best friend Jenn. She is fighting breast cancer and still getting her kids fed, to school and to programs every day. Her strength is inspiring.
I think we are all a little closer to 10 than we give ourselves credit for. Thanks for sharing.
My amazing mother who is not only the best mother, but the best grandmother. Without her I wouldn’t even be half the mother I am today. She’s the most selfless and amazing person. Every time my daughter makes me feel like i’m going insane, my mother pulls me right back to reality. And someday when my daughter is raising her first kid, I hope to do the same for her.
My little sister is the best mom. She got pregnant her freshman year at college by her high school boyfriend who quickly vanished. She gave up her scholarship to take care of her special needs son who was born extremely premature. At 1lb/11oz he was never expected to survive, countless surgeries, and years of tube feeding, inability to walk or talk, all while being a single mother. She has never once complained, asked why us, and she has more patience than I could muster in a lifetime. I wish I could do more for her.
My wife, we recently were asked to foster a kid she nannied for and despite not wanting kids she has stepped up and been a great parent for the last 8 months. We were given a weekend to decide if we could take him and this was one week after our wedding…
Hi! I’m not a mom, but I love your stories. I am 27, I have a whole bunch of brothers and sisters, and I just lost my 49 year old mom /best friend to a stroke on April 11. She was so much fun, she could party harder than me, she wore wigs when she had bad hair days, and she loved eating just the m&ms out of trail mix for “the thrill of the chase”. She would’ve liked this story because we always laughed about things like how when I was little, she only knew how to make spaghetti, and she learned how to really cook when she had my brother and sister. She would’ve given anyone the shirt off her back and never asked for anything in return. She talked to me every night on my 45 min commute home. Those rides home have been lonely without her. I’m not interested in the gift card, please give it to a mom who really needs it. I just wanted to share just how fun, giving, silly, and just plain fabulous my mom was. Thanks for making so many people laugh baby sideburns!
My mom…when I am overwhelmed with my 3 girls, I think about how my momanaged with 9 kids. Gives me strength and perseverance!
I work full time and I miss my almost 3 year old so much when I am at work. He gets to see his Daddy much more often since he is a musician and works nights. I sometimes feel jealous when he want Daddy to do everything with him but then I know when he is sick or gets hurt, he comes to me first for hugs and snuggles. That means something to me that he knows I am there for him when he is feeling bad. I also sing him our special song every night. the “I Love You” song. I made it up the first night he came home from the hospital and I still sing it to him. So I think both myself and my husband are doing a good job….I just need to keep reminding myself of this fact.
My cousin Darice Sawyer. She is an amazing mom! She has a son in college who she drops everything to drive 4 1/2 hours if he needs anything. She has a daughter who has type 1 diabetes and she sometimes has to get up in the middle of the night to check her blood sugar and correct if necessary. Along with all of the other things that go along with diabetes. She’s very loving not only to her kids but mine as well.
My mom who raised my sister and I on her own and is the best memere to her 3 grandchildren. She taught me how to be strong and independent and is always there for me when I need a push in the right direction.
And also I ugly cried through that whole video. I hope my kids have great things to say about me like that, as I often focus on what I’m not doing enough of.
I doubt myself daily but I always look at the smiles, laughter, and joy that radiates from my kids as a sign that my husband and I are pretty awesome parents. The sheer amount of I love you’s, hugs, and kisses are proof too!
My husband is a kick-a*s dad. He works hard and long hours, but she he’s home he loves to engage the kids. From gardening to exaggerated tackles from a 2 and 5 year old he always provides a great role model.
I hate to toot my own horn (truly my face is burning right now), but my mom passed away very unexpectedly about a year ago and since then I’ve been running her whole estate with limited help from siblings, being a wife to a truly fantastic husband, mom to a gorgeous two year old girl and two insane dogs, and legal assistant to a sometimes cranky attorney. I feel 99% of time I’m doing parenting wrong but I know I’m getting something right when that little face lights up when she sees me. And also when she says “no thank you”.
My girls smile and laugh more than they cry, so I’d say I’m rockin’ this parenting thing! Also, they have clean underwear, edible food, a warm home and plenty of love ♥️
My parents!! They were amazing growing up and even more amazing now that I’m old enough to appreciate it 🙂
I have this guilt every single day!! Most of my guilt stems from my son not being able to have a relationship with both his parents. My boyfriend passed away when our son was 18 months old and raising him on my own has made me feel so guilty for all the things he will miss out on by not having his daddy in his life. I give it my all every day, but I really wish just one day I would feel like it’s enough. My son seems happy enough and I am slowly learning that his happiness is all that matters, but I still can’t shake the feeling like I won’t be enough as he grows up.
My awesome mom friend Laura is a fantastic mother to her daughter, Charlotte. 🙂 She makes so many creative, fun toys and activities for that little girl. You can see how much she loves her in everything she does. She makes me feel great as a mom too 🙂
My beautiful friend Paisley who left an abusive relationship while pregnant with her third child. She moved out of state with the kids to be closer to her family. She’s works full time teaching special education, and spends the rest of her time raising three amazing kids.
Just this morning I was reminded how the hard parenting work pays off when you least expect it. I have 5 chronic health conditions that cause everything from pain and fatigue to migraines and frequent infections, so working and raising two kids takes a big toll on my body and mind. After helping my 10 year old daughter all weekend finish her science project, I had done nothing for myself, leaving my tank empty on Monday morning, never a good start to the week and usually makes my painful conditions flare up. But after taking the kids to school this morning, yes in my pajamas, my daughter was being a bit of a sassy 4th grader to me as we rushed in to turn in her science project that’s taken over our lives, and our living room, for a month. I didn’t even try to hug or kiss her goodbye because I could see she wanted to just get settled into her desk, so I said bye and walked out, knowing I won’t see her for 12 hours until I get home at 8:30 tonight. Walking to my car, my daughter comes running out to give me the biggest hug – she’s never done something like this before – and the look in her eyes was the deepest look of love and appreciation FOR ME, her mom!!! She thanked me for being patient with her all weekend and helping her get her project done even though she said she knew I wasn’t feeling well. At that moment I felt so much pure joy and bliss and love and respect between us! I just burst into tears after she turned and ran back to class. Like a lot of parents, I have daily guilt over my shortcomings and screw ups, but I also know I’m doing what I can with what I’ve got and making the best of it, despite my chronic health issues. My kids love me and I absolutely love them, I have a great husband who is a provider and helps with the house and kids and he works. “We may not have it all together, but together we have it all.”
Baby Sideburns …. I love u,p! Pick me please, my medical bills have nearly sunk us and this gift card could make or break my kiddos summer, and mean the difference between real store bought Popsicles or watered down orange juice homemade ones! Love ya!
My sister is doing a great job at motherhood. Taking care of teenagers these day is hard!!!!! I do not know how she does it, but I look up to her for staying strong and always holding her ground with them!!! Great job sis:)
My friend Brooke just had baby number 3. I am forever in awe of how she does it. My 1 child ia sometimes more than I can handle. Brooke is creative and patient and so loving. I kind of wish I was one of her kids.
My cousin Kim…she has two beautiful daughters and a son that’s waiting for a liver transplant. All the heartache shes been through and she still smiles and I love her for how strong she is!!
I made the decision to go back to school while raising three young children. One thing I am proud of as a mother is we all do homework together every night at the kitchen table. Even when my kids don’t have any they will color or work in their workbooks while I do mine. I never get complaints and we spend time together.
My husband for writing love notes to our daughter while he us away in business trips each week.
My Hubby does a great job at parenting! He played airplane so much this weekend I bet his calves were killing him. I should have offered a massage – but nope. Too tired on this end – but props to him!
My Hubs is an awesome parent because he always lets me p**p alone, he changes the stinky little one’s toxic diapers, he does dishes, and he does his own laundry– not to mention a full time job that lets me stay home. Wow – I hit the jackpot!!! Don’t anyone get any ideas!!
I like to believe I’m doing a kick @ss job at this parenting thing. I have three beautiful divas and I also take care of my niece and nephew…my very own “Fab 5”. I’ve been fighting the parenting battle for 8 years now. 3 of those years I was a “single parent” while my husband was in the Army, fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, once 2 weeks after my 2nd daughter was born. There are many days when I feel as if I’m losing the battle but I just go to bed at the end of the trying day and tell myself I get go start all over tomorrow. Being a mom is the hardest but most rewarding job there is and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
My 9 week old daughter passed away in 2012. My son, who is currently 11, stated recently that he wishes he would have gotten the chance to get photos taken with his sister so his mom (me) would have photos of both of her babies. This was so touching that in his grief, he was concerned about preserving memories for me! So I scheduled a photography session at a local farm. Yesterday, my son had his pictures taken while holding a framed photo of his baby sister. It was beautiful and touching. We will cherish these forever and they are also going to be given as gifts to family members.
My husband and I! He’s back in college and still working just so that he can provide a better life for my daughter. He still takes time to play and laugh with her!!
I must be doing something right my three daughters are all on the honor roll and my son is very sweet and caring!
By far my mom. She is an amazing mother as well as an amazing grandmother. She watches my kids a couple times a week and even though I know she is tired of dealing with them by the end of the week, she still comes to all their baseball/tball games, picks my older son up early from school to get his ready for baseball, and then has the entire family over for dinner.
I recently lost my full time bill paying job so the rolls have changed in my house. I have always been the breadwinner and now my boyfriend has to do it. Anyway this stay at home thing is so much harder than any job I’ve ever done. I fail a lot! But i was proud that i took my two boys (7 years and 1 year old) to the library. My 7 year old always picks books that are way to hard for him to read and enjoy so I reserved some books i knew he would love and could read with a little help. His excitement and pride made me feel like i was doing something right.
My hubby! He is a disabled VET and is helping raise our 3 y/o daughter. We have a farm with pigs and chickens and he is constantly teaching her valuable lessons about hard work and the beauty of watching animals and our gardens grow. He also teaches both her and I how a man should treat a lady. I hope that when my daughter grows up she finds a man just like her Papa!!
I am raising a gifted child and figuring out how to work the system to get him where he needs to be. I have a daughter who is a handful and a husband who works nights. During the week I am a single mother to my two amazing kids. It is difficult and I have done things that I am not proud of but I’ve also done things that I a very proud of so I try to think of those. My son (4 1/2) will say “Do you know how much I love you? I love you for one hundred million sixty eight thousand super one hundred….(continues random numbers for a full minute) years!” I think I’m doing alright. 🙂
My mom! She has been amazing guiding my sister and me in life and will never hesitate to drop everything and be there for us. She’s also a spectacular Granny to my boys.
I think my husband and I are doing a pretty darn good job raising five boys between us, ages 19, 18, 17, 4, and 2, while both working full-time, despite over the only 4 years we’ve been married we’ve gone through: 3 surgeries, 2 custody battles with exes, 1yr of unemployment for me, 3 job changes and, just in the last four months, the loss of all three of our remaining grandmothers. But our boys are happy, healthy, and know they are well loved by all their parents and steps!
I try to be a good mom,although having two little girls it’s a constant cat fight! Meeooww!!!
My husband is an awesome parent to our two girls. He works a late shift so he watches our 2 year old and takes her on all kinds of adventures before he has to go to work. Sometimes I get a babysitter so I can have some time to myself when he is at work and I am home in the evenings with the girls, but NOPE! Not him! I don’t know how he does it sometimes, but he’ll even clean the house so when I come home it is clean and ready to be destroyed again! He worries about what he is going to do when our little one goes to school and says he’s probably going to cry. Best dad ever. Fooooo real.
My grandmother is worthy of ALL the recognition in the world. She should be retired, sitting and watching soap operas and the price is right every day…..but she still works FULL time AND she is raising my three…..yes THREE cousins whose mother is an alcoholic and father is a druggy! She also cares for my mildy demented grandfather who tells you the same story 30 times daily bc he forgets he told you already. She works all day, comes home to homework and then cooks dinner to only have to get in the car and pick another one up from ball practice. Regardless of whether this wins a gift card or not, she IS the winner in my eyes! Love You Mim and ALL that you do!
I’ve seen my two kids through the Valley of Darkness. Severe Depression. They’re not “cured”, but they have tools and life skills to see them through dips in the road ahead. They can talk about their feelings and deal with their emotions when they couldn’t before. There are days when I just want to sit on the couch eating bonbons watching trash, but MY KIDS ARE HAPPY (and alive). That’s a great thing.
In the spirit of this post I’d like to say that I’m doing a kick a*s job of being a mother to my 5 year old step daughter and 10 month old daughter. I love these girls with all my heart and at the end of the night when they snuggle up to me and say I love you I know im doing something right.
My mother who has been diagnosed with MS has raised three kids (me and my sisters) and still raising my two younger brothers(11 &14). She is a single mom. She also has six grand babies she adores(ages 5 and under). She also host sleep over with all the kids.
My amazing husband. He’s such a good daddy. Our rainbow baby is almost a year old and my husband doesn’t judge me for any of my crazy, over protective, anxiety fueled parenting.
I would definitely have to say that my cousin (we’ll call her Annie) is doing a wonderful job at being a mother. Annie is the mother of two sweet little boys, ages 2 and 5. A little over a year ago, she lost her youngest son in a tragic accident. Amidst all the sadness, the guilt and blaming of herself, and the nosey Rosie’s that can’t mind their own business, she has been so strong and courageous. She always has a positive word and helping hand for others. She will be there for any of her friends and family at the drop of a hat. She devotes her time to helping in her eldest son’s classroom and is always there to help care for the children of friends and family, including my own. How she manages to keep a smile on her face from day to day, I will never understand; but she still manages to touch the lives of others and be a best friend to so many despite her own personal pain. I want her to know that no matter how down she is feeling, she is a beautiful person and an awesome mother! As for myself, I think I may be doing alright since my 2-year-old is sitting here wiping away my tears saying, “No cry mommy,” while simultaneously wearing a bucket on his head and smudging banana all over my face. 🙂
I’m going to be selfish and say me…
I’ve managed to keep my son alive despite being 9 weeks pregnant and having severe morning sickness. There’s been way too much animal planet, my house is a mess, yesterday he ate paint, and his gourmet lunch was cold ravioli because I can’t stand the smell of it heated up…
But he’s alive 🙂 (currently naked by choice, but alive nonetheless)
My husband is such an awesome father to all five of our kids….he has stepped up as father to my two boys. Like just this past weekend we took all the kids camping and taught them survival skills (building a fire, fishing etc) all after a full week of busting his b**t at the shop twisting wrenches. He amazes me everyday!
I work full time rotating day and night shifts, while still managing to teach my two toddler boys manners, and right from wrong. I also go to school full time.
There’s this mom I know who has it very tough. She has 3 very bright, but challenging boys. The 2 older ones have ADHD and her 2 year old may have it as well (but it’s too early to diagnose it yet). Every single morning is an enormous challenge for her to just get them out the door and to school. The boys can be disrespectful and have great difficulty staying on task – even the simplest task. Yet, she gets them to the bus on time and the 2 year old to preschool on time. It is aging her. Bed time is equally as difficult.
In addition to the boys having ADHD they are also gifted children. The 2 older boys were reading at age 3, and her 2 year old knows all his letter and is ready to start. This is an equally difficult challenge. Her boys require challenges and enrichment! She drives them to museums, and zoos, and technology and art conventions – in spite of the difficulties challenges that their ADHD present when in a public place. She seeks out summer camps which offer classes like programming in minecraft and rocketry and she does it with a smile because she knows what great potential the boys have even in the face of their disabilities.
She is also their advocate. She has attended countless special education meetings and written a ton of emails on their behalf. She has called many parents and spoken to many teachers. About their behavior, their struggles, and their being targets of bullies. She has even gotten out of her car and admonished bullies – knowing full well that these children were her neighbors’ children and she would probably have to deal with the repercussions. She didn’t care because even though the boys can be a-holes sometimes she is their mama bear and no one messes with her boys (but her!)
Everyday is a new struggle or challenge, but she rises to the occasion with fierce love and devotion. Her boys may not like her all the time, but she is loved all of the time.
My amazing friend Tabatha. She ha 3 boys, works full time, cooks, cleans, and has time for pintrest crap. She also has taught her boys strength, courage, right from wrong. She became a mom at 16 and has excelled in life. I am so proud of her.
My friend Kristin is an awesome mom, she had a double mastectomy and endured chemo but still managed to LEAD her daughters Girl Scout troop all year. Nothing was going to stop her from being a great mom and role model for the girls.
I want to start by saying we all have our own personal battles. As moms, we do all that we can to love the littles in every way we can. It isn’t anyone else’s place to judge. That being said, I need to take this time to give myself some credit. I have a three year old and 1 year old twins. I love those little critters. They show me my faults, teach me to have patience, and make me a better person. I focus a lot on my bad habits. I go to bed thinking of the guilt in not being good enough. I’m in survival mode. Reading your blog post reminded me that I hear all three of my kids laugh daily, they smile, they are HAPPY (with some tantrums mixed in). They hear “I love you.” I’m doing ok. ;). It’s ok to be human, make mistakes, and forgive myself too.
My mom and dad are always willing to drop anything if me, my brother, or sister need to talk.
My mom does an awesome job. She had my little brother at a late age when my other brothers and I were older. Then my dad stepped out 2 years later. So my mom has been raising my brother on her own and working full time to support him on her own. During this she has also had to take care of her mom and her grandparents. She has also had numerous health issues including a brain aniurism. She never takes a day off work no matter how bad she feels.
I sleep with my daughter every night because she loves bed sharing. Really, I would much rather sleep by myself and sleep terribly with her in the bed, but I am a great mom so I cuddle her all night long.
Definitely one of my closest friends. She’s raised three beautiful children to be so sweet and loving, all while balancing the life of a military wife on the other hand, which can and does get very stressful, very quickly. She has so much strength through all the stress and inspires and reminds me that I can overcome my hurdles, too. She’s amazing!
Ha! #5! I choose my own dear, sweet mom. Even with her mental challenges, she still wants me to put on a sweater. It’s 80 degrees and I’m 60!
Both my parents are amazing and did and amazing job with my brother and me and know with my kids. My mom started a packaging company so that my brother and always have a job to support out families, and when my son was recently diagnosed with Autism she told me it was a sign as he will also have a job so he can be independant when he grows up regardless of his skill level.
My husband is an awesome dad. He will give up watching golf for Disney, dress up as a princess, color for an hour, and be a human jumping gym. He is very patient but stern when he needs to be. He almost wasn’t here to watch her grow up so he knows how incredibly blessed he is. He had to be in another state for a few months a few times going through stem cell transplants. We appreciate everything he does around the house and for the both of us. He is the best!
My next door neighbor switched jobs last year and then found out she was pregnant! She had her baby a month early and wasn’t elligable for maternity leave yet! Took a few weeks and was back to work! She still gets home and plays & take her other 3 year old son to the park and holds it all down! I don’t know how she does it! We are Malcom in the middle next door!
My sister is doing a wonder job raising two beautiful girls. And even though they aren’t super close in age they both love each other to death and I know that it is because she is a great mother and shows them how to love like that. They are already growning up to be respectful, loving, driven kids and i can only see great things for them! Love you Chach.
I love this post! I’m teaching my 15 year old to drive after I put his 18 month old brother to sleep for the night. It’s like riding in a roller coaster with serious consequences. I don’t show that I’m terrified though because that would ruin his confidence.
My brother is killin’ it in the parenting arena. He’s a single dad of three (2 boys, one girl) and is doing a great job. I watched him learn how to curl his 5 year old little girl’s hair a couple weekends ago… he wasn’t too sure about it all, but she LOVED him pampering her! He’s doing better than he thinks. 🙂
My Mom! She raised 5 of us pretty much single-handed after my dad died when I was 2 1/2 years old and we’re all about as normal as possible.
My mom – She has been my rock from day one. She worked full-time as money was tight. But, she made sure we never missed out on being with her. Our house was always stocked with home made snacks. All our meals for freshly prepared. She spent time playing with us, helping with our homework, projects & taking us to various classes. She helped me deal with bullying, eve teasing & puberty.
Now, after I left my husband (abuse), she went through all the law books, pages & documents she could find to help me get a restraining order & file for divorce.
She still works full-time as a Managing Director and is now taking 6 months off to help me (still dealing with a long drawn divorce). Never once did she say “I told you so” because let’s face it, no one believed in my ex. No one could imagine abuse though.
I was a defiant daughter, always head strong but, when life just kicked me in the a*s big time, she is the pillar I lean on. Being a mother (to a toddler), I now realize how difficult it is to raise kids and just hope to be at least half as good as she was.
I think I’m pretty d**n amazing if I must say so myself. I left my job as a chemistry instructor when my son was diagnosed with Autism. I care for him and my other son all day long. I have not killed either of them, which is pretty amazing. Did I mention that they are both under 3? Yeah….I’m amazing.
My mom is amazing. She cares for her 92 year old mother and also finds time to help me & my 5 other siblings with whatever we need. She babysits her grandchildren for us, she attends their school assemblies, she goes to lacrosse games, she helps with birthday parties & first communions, she provides rides to school, the list goes on and on. She’s incredible.
My mom! I am a grown a*s woman (can I say a*s?) with two kids of my own and she is still bailing me out and she does my laundry while she is at it! Today my car wouldn’t start and I had to pick my son up from preschool so I called my mommy (because what else does a grown a*s woman with two kids of her own do when she needs help?!) and even though she had somewhere to be she dropped everything and high tailed it on over so I could use her car to get my son! Thanks mommy!
I refuse to clean on weekends when kids are awake. I work outside the home M-F AND They’re With AWESOME sitters, but weekends are For Mommy. Every Sunday we have an adventure. This past Sunday we drove an hour to a playground on the beach to enjoy the sun and sand. My two girls giggled wildly as I pushed them on the swings. I always feel guilty that my house is such a mess, but I’d rather trip over toys and grab crumpled clothes out of laundry baskets then give up the sound of my girls having fun.
My sister is an amazing mother to her twin boys. She has watched her baby have multiple open heart surgeries and stayed strong through it all! She is my mentor and confidant while I muddle through these crazy toddler years with my 2! I have no idea what I’d do without her!
My kick-b**t husband who even when I am completely stressed out with out 4 kiddos still somehow convinces me it’s ok and then plays with the kids so I can take a break (even though he just worked his b**t off all day). I couldn’t be more proud to call him the daddy of our munchkins!
My husband. He has a full time job (Army), is in grad school, a daddy to two rotten boys and a wonderful husband. He somehow finds a way to manage everything. I couldn’t do it. I’m so thankful for the man my boys get to call Dad.
My mom, because of all the choices we made, she always supported us. She has taught my sisters and I how to be great parents, even though we all have faults too! I know everyone of us has questioned our parenting and even ask her for advise still!
My amazing friend of 3! She has a son who is at that dreaded age of 2, into everything & a little tornado but she parents with such grace & understanding!
My Mom! She’s an amazing person and always knows what to says.
My best friend Leilani is an incredible mother who is WAY too hard on herself daily. She is mom AND dad to 2 amazing little boys. She has done it on her own all along and doesnt complain even when she wants to cry. She is way more patient that I am as a parent and is always there to step up and help her fellow mommy friends out. I admire her in so many ways and am honored to consider her my best friend.
My mom. She was a stay at home mom with 3 crazy kids. Her youngest (me) has gone through the trials of cancer and it’s treatments. Through it all she was my biggest help and didn’t miss a doctors appointment. I will now be doing this again(it’s back) and she will be an instrumental player in taking care of my son when I can’t. She already helps out my brother with his 3 kids at least 2 times a week, doing more than any other grandparent I know, and yet, she feels guilty on the rare occasion that she can’t help them one day. All this while working a full time job as an office manager for a real estate company. She raised 3 happy children and is doing everything she can to make sure her 4 grandkids are even happier! She really is amazing.
My Friend Susan. Her 4 year old daughter has leukemia and she is handling it very well and also runs after her 1 year old son.
My friend Carmen works full time, has 3 children, one of which has special needs, 2 horses, a dog, a large property and she handles everything with grace. When I’m having a rough day, I think of what she would do. She doesn’t sweat the small stuff and it’s an inspiration!
My hubby, who works 12-14 hour days with feet that hurt so bad, he needs to ice them after work, so that I can stay home with our daughter. He still comes home and plays with our little girl and makes me feel like a queen!
My sister is my role model mom. She has done everything in her power to instill amazing kindness in her daughter and to teach her the value of reading books, to stand up for herself and others, and to love with her whole heart. I hope I can do this with my two boys!
I’m going to say me. Simply because today, when my husband threw the babies dirty diaper into the trash can two rooms over, and it surprisingly MISSED and hit ME instead, while I innocently came out of the bathroom, I didn’t curse. Yup. I didn’t say one bad word at all. Hubby might be living in the garage, but that’s another story. lol.
Maybe this is dumb, especially because you, BS, are the queen bee of letting your kids be themselves in whatever form that is, but here’s how I’ve been a good mom. I come from a long line of “baseball boys”. Baseball is a big deal in my family. In fact, my father said, upon first finding out I was pregnant, that he hoped it was a boy so he could coach his Little League. Well, when the time came, my son did play baseball. For the past two years. Well, after two years, we’ve realized that he just doesn’t like it very much and (if I’m being honest) isn’t very good at it. He doesn’t want to play anymore. He’d rather skateboard. To me, skateboarding is SO dangerous and I’m positive he’s going to, at some point, break a limb or two. But he loves it. And he really is good at it (for 7 years old anyway). So I support him through my fear. And I take him to the skatepark and make him wear his helmet and knee pads and elbow pads and wrist guards and just pray. And then I smile at how much fun he is having and thank God he made it through another day without a trip to the ER.
My mother who was a single mom for five years and taught me about strength, then found us a second dad who loves us like his own.
My best friend Nicole, who has 4 kids and feels like she’s doing everything wrong most days. She juggles sports, religious Ed, homework, school and husband and does a great job! I help her out when I can and try and keep her sane 🙂 if I won this gift card her and I would have an amazing girls day out 🙂
My mother in law. Every day she comes over to help me with my 3 year old old and one month old and laundry AND cleaning. I would be insane without her!
I wish I could say that is where my list ended, but I’m in a constant battle with myself on the whole good parent thing.
I only have small rare moments of “must be doing something right”.
Hats off to all you great Mommas out there.
My mom and dad. They are amazing and have always been there for me and my siblings. And… Their 12 grandkids and 1 great grandchild
They’re the best and I’m very lucky to have them.
I have to say my husband! When we met..he had two small children and I had four children under the age of 4. He didn’t even blink at that…he loved my kids as much as he loved me…as one family unit. We got married and had 3 more girls together to complete our family of 9 kids!!!! He works hard so I can stay home with them and then is beyond being the hands on Dad…playing, riding bikes and scooters (I swear he will break something one of these days riding on their scooters) and bathtime. He listens to me vent after rough days, gives me a shoulder to cry on after emotional days and tells me I am beautiful even when I haven’t had a chance to wash my hair for 2 (okay 3) days. I love this man and couldn’t imagine anyone else being the father to my children. I tell them how lucky we are all the time.
It was a rough Monday morning, but I got the kids up, fed and out the door on time.
My friend Kerri just had twin boys and she has a 7 year old with Williams syndrome. She is the biggest rockstar mom I know and I hope everyday that I can be just like her.
My mom. She is raising my brothers three children, all of whom have disabilities to keep them out of foster care.
They are a total handful for just me, and despite her being disabled herself she does an awesome job at keeping up with appointments and taking them to school and events daily, and making sure they have a good life despite the trauma they had went thru before. She is the toughest mom/grandmother I know.
My super amazing Babiest sister is raising 4 kids, is a full-time school nurse, a part-time LPN at a long-term care facility, and also a gestational surrogate!! And through all of this, her kids love her more than anything! She’s my inspiration.
I’m going to give birth without my husband for the 3rd time and raise 4 kids while he’s in the Middle East for the 4th time in 7 years. And I’m going to do it while keeping {some} of my sanity 🙂
My mom who raised three children of her own and now is a blessing to me and my daughter! Without her help I dont know where we would be.
My mom left her home in Rhode Island where her husband of 36 years and other daughter Kara currently live, in order to help me take care of my first born so I could go back to work and Jake wouldn’t have to go to day care. She is saving me a ton of money and Jake is getting to grow up with his parents AND his Nana. Saying goodbye after Jake turns a year old in July is going to be impossible for her. She is so attached. I got her a gold locket with Jake’s picture engraved on the inside along with the words “Always hold me close to your heart.” to make the transition a little less painful.
One of my friends who seems to always remain calm and patient with her children…and I wish I was able to do the same.
I do my best to make my kiddos laugh every day. Even if everything else goes wrong, at least we will have that!
My awesome sauce friend Jennifer. She’s one of those all natural, crunchy Mama’s that we all Pinterest like… She’s birthed both her children naturally, and the unbelievable meals she serves them is like she’s a real life unicorn. I vote her because she’s everything I want to be, but too lazy to be. Props to that girl and her sweet potato fritter patties!
My little sister. Her jack a*s boyfried said they should try and have a baby. Well the babies here and guess whose completely MIA. So my sister really stepped up, for herself a two bedroom apartment and is raisin my nephew all by herself. Often I got calls in the morning about how baby didn’t sleep and she wishes she had help but girlfriend is actually doing a super great job!! Love you sissy keep it up its all totally worth it
My mom! She is amazingly strong and is always there when I need her. I hope to be as good a mother to my daughter as she was to me!!
A friend of mine Tracy is an amazing mommy. She is teaching full time and raising 3 ADORABLE kids on her own after suddenly losing her husband only 2 months ago. When I start to feel sorry for myself I think of her and realize how good I have it.
Im going to be the annoying one who self nominates. Recently I had a melt down. I have three children 7,20months, and 4 months. I work as a waitress one day a week bc honestly I need a break away from my children. My husband works 5-6 days a week. Im home by myself from 6am- 5:30pm. All day I change diapers, clean mess after mess, try to do laundry and fold before someone needs to eat or be changed, and sometimes when I am feeling like SuperMom I venture to the store. Usually my outings when I do go out end up in me super stressed and one or both small children screaming. My husband came home not so long ago with me trying to start dinner with tears in my eyes as my 20month old was throwing a tantrum, and my 4 month old was starting to fuss. He asked what was wrong and I just belted out. “Why did I want to have children?” Sometimes I feel as though Im just going through the motions. Yes I have my moments where I truly enjoy my children , but I felt as thought they were far and few between. During my meltdown my husband looked at me hugged me and said “You are a great mom, and the fact that you don’t think so proves that you are”. These words stuck with me. I am not one of the lucky ones to have wonderful inlaws that will take their grandchildren overnight or ever at all. I don’t have a huge support system of any kind. That’s part of my problem. I grew up in foster care and I promised myself I would be the greatest mother I can be. This promise came with the image of a 50s housewife. Tending to the children and the house in a cute apron and prim and proper hair and makeup. The reality is the opposite. My hairs always a mess!! Im usually always in my pjs or sweats. My house is never spotless and dinner sometimes isn’t done until 7pm. With my husband’s words I’ve realized im making it. Being a mother is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. My children are happy, healthy, smart, and oh so cute! And I can take credit for most of that! We all have mom guilt and we are all making the best of it and that’s all we can do:). Good luck moms!!! Sorry for my speal had to get it out there:)
I have 5 kids and we live in a small home. Their father left me to raise them all by myself and I am a breast cancer survivor so between the 6 of us it’s been rough!! We have had our ups and downs but I wouldn’t have it any other way!! I Love my kids with all my heart!!!
My friend Cherie is an amazing mom. She is patient and loving and is an excellent teacher and role model to her children.
Me!!! I managed to keep twins alive for a whole year! Go me.
My husband is doing an awesome job at being a parent. He stepped up to his role as a dad for a little girl that isn’t even his. He has raised her since she was a year old and took care of her before he had his own son (her half brother). Her birth father came back into the picture when she turned 5 years old, but you can tell that to her, my husband will always be her DAD. When I married my husband, I took on both these kids and made them part of my family. We now have his son full time and that alone is a huge challenge. He is only 9 years old, but has ADHD, Depression, Attachment Disorder and possible other problems. He is a challenge every day, but my husband has the patience of a saint. He is always able to keep a cool and level head especially on the days that we get tested the most. My husband and I are now expecting our first son and I couldn’t imagine my son having any other dad but my husband. He is my rock and he teaches me how to be patient and never give up, even on days I’m ready to throw in the towel!! My husband is AWESOME!
My sis…. they live several hours away from family and friends now and she works 2 jobs, goes to school and takes care of her two adorable as heck kiddoes! You go girl!
Of course there area million things I do wrong, but I throw a kick a*s birthday party! My kids are 1 day apart so there is 1 party. Try coming up with a theme that makes them both happy – boy & girl and they are 4 years apart! But every year, not only do I come up with a theme they both like (karate, Scooby doo, rock star, super hero), I create my own decorations & get all theme-y with the goody bags & the activities. It’s one of the things I’m actually proud of!
the mother of my children is amazing. she handles her own disabilities with grace and very little whining, way less than I’d be doing, and she helps the kids manage their own mental quirks. anxiety and add are no fun, and yet she’s helped them learn coping strategies and self acceptance. they’re great kids, and that’s got to be because they have a great mom. set of moms? array? there’s birth mom, me mom, and step mom, and I suspect these kids are going to grow up amazing.
if we don’t screw it up on the way to adulthood….
There is a amazing mom from Menasha, WI who lost her husband and daughter yesterday due to a senseless act of violence. This amazing lady reacted quickly and saved the lives of her two other children. She deserves this more than anyone I know. http://fox11online.com/2015/05/04/updates-trestle-trail-shooting/
My husband because he works full-time then comes home to cook, clean, and put our two year old to bed. He does this so I can finish school.
What an amazing campaign. GOOD ON YOU MINUTE MAID!!!!
I am a hard working mom. I stay home. Sure like the best. I do love it with all my heart. My kids are 5, 2 and 4 months old. My baby is breastfed but wont latch so every 2-3 hours i have to stop to pump, wash the pump, feed the baby then wash the bottle. I do allbthe laundry. Drop off and pick up to preschhol daily. All shopping, and cooking, and cleaning. Every wake up at night is done by this Mommy. I dont get nights off or breaks. I do get a sitter but its to go to the dentist, oh joy right! But i love my babies. I love this time with them. It is going by way too fast. A $250 gift card for food would be so amazing with our one income on a family of 5.
My Mom is the best mom because she raised us (myself and my siblings) and we are all still alive. I now know from being a parent now that it is a lot harder than it looks and we all take short cuts out there because we just don’t always have the energy to do it all. She was a saint for all she did for me and I don’t feel like I’m half of the mom mine was to me.
Now that I’m a mom, I look back and appreciate all the things my mom did for me growing up. I appreciate it more now than I did then. She and my dad are still great role models and they are wonderful grandparents!
My mom… is an amazing mom. I’m 30 with two kids of my own… and I completely struggle with parenting day after day. My mom and I had a rough patch… and sadly it took her having a heart attack for me to realize that she is doing the best she can. She could have died… and there I was holding a grudge for things in the past. Now, after she had a scare… I am finally seeing the amazing things she does for me. The amazing things she does for my kids. and finally seeing the caring person who would drop anything to help me. I’m so happy we get another chance… because if she would have died… it would have killed me inside knowing I have been being so hard on her.
It’s sad to say that even when I do hear compliments like “You’re doing a great job as a mom!” that my first instinct is to say “oh no, because blah blah blah”. When I should be saying “THANK YOU!” Moms rock and so I nominate the mom I’m closest to….me! 🙂
When my 2 year old daughter who cant sit still or concentrate for longer than a few minutes, runs at me full speed from behind for a random hug, I know Im doing a good job.
I have to say that all my friends who are parents are doing an amazing job. If I could give them all the reassurance that they need when they feel like they are doing it 200% wrong, I would. However, I’d like to especially recognize my own mother who happens to also be my neighbor. My kids are lucky to have a grandmother who will rescue them when I’m going nuts, and also tell me I’m doing great when I feel shitty about my parenting. Without her brilliant parenting of me, my kids would be getting a raw deal!
This couldn’t have come at a better time. This video was so inspiring, and B.S., you’re so right about holding onto three stupid little stuff!!!!
Me, dang it. I’m doing a great job, and I’m tired of questioning, worrying or thinking otherwise. I carry enough mom guilt for everyone I know, and it’s so old!!!!!!
How do I know I’m doing OK? Because I have bright-eyed, inquisitive, caring, loving, funny and honest children, who don’t care to break rules or purposely hurt other people’s feelings. And through all the “screw ups” in a day , these are the things that remain. Not every day is perfect, but we have something good in every day. Isn’t that kinda how that saying goes? 🙂
Keep up three good work B.S., and all of you ♡
*the
sometimes my phone does what it wants
My mom! She not only raised me and supported me through some majors surgeries but to this day she is the main caretaker of my brother who has Cerebral Palsy and cannot walk, talk, or feed himself. She is selfless and has the biggest heart. Her strength has helped me in raising my own children. To top it all off she is an amazing grandma to my three children.
My good friend Megan Shimonek, who does crafts and nannies and let’s her kids do tons of activities and is just really rocking the whole mom thing 🙂
My husband! He is Such a present, patient and kind father to my stepson and our daughter. He has endless patience and responds to every papa hey utter. He finds a way to teach lessons without yelling or getting inpatient and is current juggling two full time jobs. He still comes he by 5 every day and cooks the famy a healthy delicious dinner. He maintains and improves the house, he is a wonderful partner. I learn from him everyday- he helps me grow as a parent and person. Love that man!
I was going to talk about someone else, but dammit after reading that I say ME!
I’m not “just a client” of the “Mommy’s with Guilt” club!
I have three boys. The allergy boy. The never-eats-never-sleeps-never-sits-still boy. And the baby. Oh, and my 4th son, my 90lb dog.
I work full-time. I have a 3.5 hr commute. I breastfeed and pump round the clock. I prepare as many meals from scratch (not cause I’m crunchy, but because of allergy-boy and a tight budget). I sleep an average of 3 hrs per night.
My kids are healthy, happy and gorgeous.
WHY the hell do I feel any guilt?!?!
Thanks for the reminder BS 😉
My mom had my sister and I then a 10 year break before my youngest sister and brother. At 32 I still have my break down moments when I come crying to my mom and end up staying over while she’s still working full time and caring for my sister in her junior year of high school and my brother who will be starting high school next year. Not to mention my other sister who is 30 and lives with my mom ALSO with her 7 year old son. All in a 4 bedroom house she was able to get all on her own after 2 husbands went packing. She is an amazing woman that I thank God for making my mother and pray that I am able to be half the mother she is to my 3 girls.
I think both my husband and I can take some credit for making it work. We have two kids, 3 and 2 and because day care is too expensive at this point, I work days, and my husband works evenings. He watches the kids during the day and then drops them off to me at work so I can bring them home and take the “evening shift”. It’s hard because it feels like my husband and I are like passing ships but I really feel that our kids have benefited from getting to know both of us so well and being home with us so long.
What a great contest!
Are you really going to read through all of these–wow! Ok, how about an antithesis to the best mom story? I’m at work the other day, NOT chaperoning the third-grade trip to our local children’s museum for STEM week (which I fully support), when I get a text from a dad-friend who IS chaperoning where I should be, asking me, “Did your son really fall into the shark tank at _____ Science Center?” After laughing out lout, I recall the time that yes, several years ago he tipped headfirst over the edge into the shark petting tank. Upon yanking him back out, drenched and shocked, I hear the museum employee who monitors the tank say, “You can go up to the front desk and get a t-shirt.” I look incredulous like what, is there a souvenir shirt that says “I fell into the shark tank at _____ Science Center”? Gathering my wits I ask him, “How often does this happen?” His response: “All the time.” And I’m a great mom because as a journalist for a hyper local paper at the time I had an outlet to describe the poor engineering of this so-called-touch tank (which has nothing for kids to stand on to reach the d**n sharks) in a public manner, but chose not to embarrass my family by retelling the tale.
A friend going through a divorce yet managing to keep her children’s wellbeing always her number one priority.
My mom is amazing.
My sister and I are now “grown up” and have left the house, and even though I have moved across the country and now have 2 children I still call her for advice and tips.
She doesn’t always have the answer, but just talking to her seems to make everything ok. Whether I am calling to vent, cry, laugh, or just to talk she is there.
I hope my relationship with my boys is even half as good as mine with my mom.
My mom, who is taking on grandma duties like a professional. She just loves taking my kid off my hands so I can run errands or sit back and read my phone or whatever. It’s amazing!
My mom, for always being so patient with all of us.
I’m proud of myself for caring for 3 little ones 5 and under while my husband their daddy is deployed. I’m also proud of my sister for being an awesome mom and going back to college to finish her degree! And for our mom who raised us right and I will always be thankful for her.
My awesome momma. I’ve always known that my mother is amazing, but since having a daughter of my own it’s really put things into perspective and I realize even more how much she has done and continues to do for me. She is basically my best friend now (it’s between her and my 18 month old 😛 ) and I can only hope that I’m half a good as mom as she has been to me. She would never ask for a thing in return. And hell, she’s put up with me for 24 years. Oye… .:)
I say given it to Saleena Ghanny!
I’ve been so nervous that all I’m showing my kids is fear and anxiety. I didn’t realize they were learning to be strong too.
I watched my daughter do something amazing. She has several fears, one is heights. She wanted to try to climb a rock wall (pretty high) so of course we let her. She got a quarter of the way up and said she was scared. She went a little further but fear took over and she came down. A few minutes later she came up to me and said she was scared the first time but wanted to try. She was beyond determined. She almost fell off 4-5 times. She wouldn’t give up. I’m so proud of her. She conquered her fear!!
My husband. I’ve been working extra hours including two 16 hour shifts a week and sometimes don’t get to see them for 2 days. My husband has stepped up and after his 12 hour days still manages to come home, make dinner, help with homework, and do whatever else needs to be done. He’s been amazing!
My husband is an awesome parent because he works his b**t off at a really taxing job (he’s a paramedic) so that I can stay home with our kiddos. And, while that means that I’m often alone with our kids for 36 hours at a time (or more), it also means that he is missing out on all of the good stuff to make it possible because he knows it’s what makes the rest of us the most happy. And, he is still willing to do the “dad” stuff with the kids when he’s home without complaining!
My 2 daughters-in-law, Melody and Maria who are raising my granddaughters with such love, devotion, values and morals…….they are becoming wonderful little citizens although they, too, have moments where they beat themselves for things they didn’t do just like I did 30+ years ago……..and by the way, you are doing an awesome job not only raising your children but also bringing to light many of the fears, trials and tribulations parents feel……the best support is knowing someone else feels just like you…….keep up the great (and humourous) work!!! Karen
My mama, who raised me for 21 years before passing away from cancer. My husband’s mama, who raised him for the same amount of time before dying of the same disease. And now me, proud and slightly overwhelmed mom of a beautiful 2-month-old boy. I hope I can live up to his grandmothers’ awesomeness!
My husband, for working his tail off to support us. He’s a long haul truck driver, and he hates it, but he does it for me and our two boys.
I want to build up myself and tell you how great i am at being a mom/step-mom to our 4 kiddos but i almost feel bad. Raising someone else’s kids is the HARDEST thing I have ever done! Lie serioulsy I feel like I am letting them down by not being a good enough “mom” or loving them the same as my daughters but I have to remind myself that it is SO MUCH BETTER than what thier bio mom has done for them… which is NOTHING in the past 4 1/2 years!
I would love a gift card, but if I win you can send the book to someone else bc my husband is awesome (occationally) and gave it to me for Christmas. 🙂
My mom raised triplets. She tried for years to get pregnant and many fertility treatments. When she was successful she found out it was triplets at 3 months pregnant. She was on bed rest for 3 months and carried us for 36 weeks. She quit her job, stayed home with us, and worked nights to help my dad pay bills and keep food on the table. When we entered kindergarten she went back to work and she still did not miss a beat. She attended every play, game, concert we threw her way. She did not miss a single one. She is the definition of Supermom! I love you, Mom!
My beautiful friend Heather who has had a very difficult life but always puts her children first.
My husband umpires baseball games for junior high and high school. I work part time and on the nights he has games I’m running around like supermom, taking my 7 year old to baseball practice, my 5 year old to dance, and my 1 year olds gets to tag along. Sometimes after we get home I realize he’s been in his car seat for an hour! At the end of the day I think back to what all I did and how there were no meltdowns and we got everywhere on time and I’m like yeah, I did it!
I would say my husband. He works at a warehouse sometimes 50+ hours a week and is allowing me to do what I’ve wanted to do forever and be a stay at home mom. I have a 7 year old from a past relationship and since day one he has treated her like his own. We also have a 7 month old together and this past weekend I had strep throat so couldn’t really be around the kids just so they wouldn’t get it. He cooked all meals, put the kids into bed, have them baths, just everything really and he took care of me. Don’t get me wrong he was freaking exhausted and did everything the opposite of what i did, but the fact that he did it without being asked or me having to be super whiney made me appreciate it a little more.
My best friend is one of the most badass moms I know. She is raising an amazing sweet and caring little boy, runs her own business, hits the gym with me and still had time for a glass of wine and listening to me whine about just about anything. So many lives are made better because of her.
Wow the video is powerful. I would like to say that I work the best I can and I fight for my children. My son was behind everyone and I fought for him to get the help he needs. We go to occupational therapy he is having surgery to fix his hearing and as tired I am at the end of the day I am grateful for him. My 3 yr old is going on 16. She is full on attitude and s***k but I know she will be an awesome leader one day. My baby girl 8 months is a ball of squish that just lays there and smiles. Thank goodness! I also have to say that I watched my mom give up everything for us even clothes when hers had wholes in them and I said I would never do that. Well here I am not buying myself new cloths but it is not in the budget and my kids get what they need and I figure one day I will be able to completely take care of myself. Every mom deserves something.
I often forget how much I do “right” by my kids during the days. I think to myself, I need to be more patient, or I need to not get so frustrated with the kids, but really when I boil it down, I’m a mom to four, (YES FOUR!) awesome and beautiful children. I have no idea how I survive some days, but when I look at my kids and see how much they love me even after I’ve lost my s**t on them for the third (fourth or fifth) time, I have to remind myself that kids push boundaries to learn. They know at the end of the day that mom will always be there to wipe their tears away, put a bandage on their boo-boo, or kiss them goodnight. I’m often told how well behaved my kids are even in public, which again just goes to show that obviously I’m doing something right. It’s just not always easy to see it when I’m in the thick of it all.
My mom is the most kick a*s mom! She did anything and everything she could to be make sure I was happy growing up, she even adopted two little boys when I was 12 years old and turned their lives around for the better! Now, as I’m raising 3 kids of my own, I sometimes struggle, and guess who’s always there doing whatever she can to help? My momma 🙂
My best friend Melissa because not only did she raise her 2 sons on her own. With no help but she has also stepped up to make sure her grand babies are well taken care of. Oh and she is always happy to mother her friends kids when they are around too.
I’m going to nominate myself. I schlepped my 1year old all over the mall today because she had already spent too much time strapped in a seat this morning.
My step-father and here’s why….he married my mom when I was 8 years old and a year or so later they had twins girls. He would paint their nails and do pony tails. Fast forward 25 years later, and my twin sisters have had three babies beyween them in two years time. Since “Poppy” was retired, he told my sisters he would keep the babies for them while they worked. Even though the three year old is jn preschool now, she still gets plenty of Poppy’s love, and now she gets her nail polished by him! Oh yeh, and did I mention that I have a 14 y/o girl and an 11 y/o girl that also get to stay at Poppy’s when they are too sick to go to school? #poppyrocks
I’m a working mom of two boys ages 3.5 and 19 months. Every day I congratulate myself on the kick a*s job I’m doing of keeping them alive. Some days it’s more challenging than others.
I bought a lot of puzzles for my four year old for xmas, we only done them once and its at least five months after xmas.
My sister has more patience than anyone I have ever met. Her daughter has prader willi syndrome and my sis is constantly battling with dr., ins. Companies, her daughter’s school, to make sure that everyone is on the same page and working together getting her daughter the care she needs and rightfully deserves. I would have ripped my hair out years ago.
Me. I do the crappy all the time, but when I do the good, I do the really good. I offered a beach day to my teenager. The beach day has turned into myself, my 15 year old, two 19 year olds, and 18 year old, a 18 year old, a 3 year old, a 4 year old and a 9 month old all enjoying a day at the beach, on me!! And you know what? That’s okay because it makes me happy that the kids want to hang out at my house!
My husband! He is my daughters’ stepdad but never too busy or tired to help with homework or play catch (poor guy…his real job is a teacher and baseball coach, so it never ends). He never complains and rarely says no! Love him.
I’m going to have to toot my own horn on this one! I have 4 children Ages 21,16,7,and 5. 14 years ago I almost died from pneumonia and sepsis. After getting out of the hospital I was sent to Johns Hopkins where I was diagnosed with a diseas very similar to what the boy in the bubble had. I now have to do treatments every five days to stay alive. I love my children so very much and I endure these treatments to stay here for them! They keep me going on a daily basis. They make me laugh big Giant belly laughs that make it all worth it! They also give me so much love that I think my heart will explode some days. I am very thankful to have been chosen to be their mother!
My sister – for raising 2 amazing kids, working as an elementary school teacher, and planning on writing a children’s book. She has been such a big help to me lately, and a huge inspiration.
My wife is the one who truly holds this house together. My job often has me away for weeks at a time. Somehow she manages to drive, referee, feed, bathe and chaperon all three kids (6, 4, and 2) in addition to running two businesses of her own. It is exhausting and I know that she often feels as though she is not being the best mom, I see how much she is pouring in to their lives and like I did when I became a parent, they will understand how much their mom is doing for them.
My awesome SIL…. Whenever we come over to play she says up awesome forts for the kids, or when is nice out she sets up the kids kitchen outside with a real drive thru for them to play with! She always thinks of fun things for them to do and I get slightly jealous but then I remember is ok that she does this because it makes them love coming to her house!
My husband! He retired from being a police officer to stay home with our THREE kids! I’m lucky enough to escape to work while he deals with a pre-teen girl’s hormonal attitude, 2yr old tantrums and a newborn. Bless his heart. LOL
My amazing brother. He’s going through hard times (divorce) but is seeing the positive in things and raising 3 amazing little boys (are 6 year old and twin 3 year olds) as a stay at home dad. He doesn’t think he’s doing it right but I can assure you how happy and healthy his boys are, he is!!
I fear everyday I am failing with my first child. He tests us, disappoints us and makes us proud. I wonder if there is something deeper effecting him.
We have raised the second one the same way and she is soooo different.
But I will go to the ends of the earth to find a way for him to show everyone else the awesome, caring child and person he is and will be!
i know a crazy awesome mom, she has 2 kids of her own(under 10) and has taken on her boyfriend’s twins as well, they do fun things, they are always smiling and happy, and those are some of the most loved kids i have known.
I have a friend with 5 kids who is the most amazing mom I know! She works part time AND manages her insanely busy household. But MOST IMPORTANTLY, she and her husband are raising their children to be the most amazing little humans – it is seriously going to be awesome to see how those kids will change the world one day 🙂
My very best friend Carrie is an amazing parent. Her son was born very premature and undersized 13 years ago….she had to not work for 2 years after he was born because his daycare would have had to be provided by a registered nurse…he grew…and was placed on the autism spectrum. He faces challenges every day…with his mom right there beside him juggling work schedules to make sure that she can be there when there is a meeting at school or for therapy…anything. She has no one else at home to help and receives little in the way of financial assistance from an absent father…she is amazing. When I feel like it is all too much I think about her and how she handles it all…then I just suck it up and do it better than the last time if I can.
My amazing sister who is raising her own while taking in my niece. Such a special family.
My kind,loving and pacient mother in law who raised 4 sensitive smart respectful men, and always made me feel loved when i sometimes felt alone. She teaches me how to be a better mom, friend and person everyday.
I always let my little guy play on his own at the park. I make sure I can see him but I don’t hover over him. I know other parents are judging me but I don’t care. I think it is good for my son to be allowed some independence.
I don’t want to enter the competition, I’m in the UK anyway, but there’s something I want to share…..
We have 2 girls 12&16 in October…ack all the things I would do so differently if I could, anyway 8 years ago I got sick, really, really sick to the point that I was told I had 5 years, I can’t count how many times I was told I’d be dead within weeks, months, I felt like such a failure as a mum. I couldn’t be the mum I wanted to be. My girls deserved so much more. I wasn’t going to give in no matter what it took, no matter how much pain I would stay alive (God willing) to see my girls grow up, even though, in my own opinion, I was a crappy mum. Then I went to a parents evening I was shown an essay that my eldest wrote. It was about people who inspired them, and my daughter had said me. I was her inspiration, she said no matter how bad I felt or how much pain I was in I would listen to her, help her, guide her. It blew my mind, and made me cry in a good way. All that time I’d thought how bad a mum I was, my girls both thought differently. In July 2013 I started a trial drug, after being told there was nothing more the Dr’s could do for me. For me the trial drug has been a miracle. I’m stable, sure the drug can’t undo the damage already done, but I’m not getting worse. From what I’ve been told, I’m the only person in the world that this drug has worked so well on. I’m still on over 69 tablets a day, and 2 types of morphine, but (please God) I have a future, and I try not to be so hard on myself. I hope you all have a wonderful Mother’s Day, here in the UK our Mother’s Day is in March, and cut ourselves some slack, after all this parenting thing is HARD!!! Lol
My mom is doing an amazing job. She is the first one I call whenever my little aholios stump me and she ALWAYS knows what to do.
I’m currently a stay at home
Mom with my 3 year old son and pregnant with our second son due in September. My husband is deployed at the moment and with pregnancy hormones there are days I could just cry all day and days that I could body slam my child to bed. Even through these days we have amazing days and I’m so privileged to be a Mother and have the opportunity to raise my sons, even though half the time I have no clue what I’m doing.
my sisters – they are awesome!
I spend my days not only with my 3 girls, homeschooling and spending time with them doing kid stuff but I am also “mommy” to 5 other kids while their parents work~ yes 8 kids, ages nb-12 all day some kids are here for 15 hours! But I wouldn’t have it any other way! I love all of them, mine or not ~ happy Mother’s Day!!!
My sister does all the things with her two kids!!! She must be exhausted…. 😉
My amazing husband for working two jobs so I can stay home with our crumb cruncher. On top of working all the time, he helps out as much as he can so I can relax and have me time so I don’t go bat s**t crazy staying home with a 10 month all the time.
My sister does a kick a*s job at…well…everything. Her daughter has a laundry list of medical issues, and she has long list of her own. She wears many hats, juggles hospital visits, dr appointments, therapies and her family life. She is constantly telling me that she wonders what more she could do for her daughter, but honestly, I cannot see how she could fit another minute into her day. Somehow, she manages to be a great mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend. My family is blessed to have her, and I am proud to call her my sister and most importantly, my friend. She deservers a little gift. If I am chosen, this gift card will go to her, she is a rockstar that I as a mother, will always look up to.
My awesome friend Sandy who is working full time while also starting up a new nonprofit to help families dealing with infertility, all while her husband is going back to school and her active 8-year old is in many extracurriculars. I know she’s hard on herself, but that kid loves her to the moon and back and she manages to make it to every baseball game and have family movie night nearly every Friday. She’s my role model!
I have the greatest mom in the world. She parents me even as an adult, but in a good way, not a hovering way. I’m so appreciate of her!
My friend Rhiannon, who is raising 2 young kids, one of which has some pretty severe physical problems. I think she does an amazing job, especially considering all the challenges lif has been throwing at her recently!
My husband, who works full time and always makes time for the kids.
I’ll pat my own back…twin boys, seven years old. One of which is special needs/learning impaired (apraxia, dyslexia, dysgraphia, and adhd). But he is a super smart kiddo! In the past year, going on my gut and against the school, I took him to the neuropsychologist for diagnosis, went to bat with the IEP team at school, and finally got him set up with an intervention specialist at school and a reading tutor after school. In the past six months, with the interventions, support at home and a whole lot of hard work on his part, he is nearly reading at grade level!
My youngest sister, who went back to school and got her Masters in education. She works full time, coaches,volunteers, mentors coworkers, while raising 4 children. Overcame some health issues last year, which required surgery. My sister works with children that are on the Autism spectrum, loves each and every one of those kids like they are her own. She is the first person to help, never takes credit for all she does.
My husband — who is such a good Dad to our little boy. The best partner in crime I could ask for and I never even knew what an amazing, patient, and caring Dad he would be.
I have to give a shout out to two. First, my husband who has worked his b**t off the past year so that I am able to stay home with my daughter. He missed out on so much of her first year, but I am so thankful that I have been able to be there for all of it!
Second, my step-mom who raised 4 children, myself, my sister and 2 brothers. Her youngest is now 13 years old. 4 1/2 years ago she decided to go back to college. During that time her brother and his girlfriend had a baby that they were unable to take care of and 2 1/2 years ago she adopted him. She graduated from her bachelor’s program and continues to try to earn her master’s with everything that is happening in her life! She is really an amazing woman!
My own Mother who never fails to inspire me to be a better Mom and who never forgets to remind me that I’m doing an amazing job.
I have a bunch of friends who can fit this category. The one that comes to mind is a working mom who always finds time to spend with her kids. She keeps the house “clean” and always takes her kids to do fun stuff. I would love to be able to do all that she does.
My BFF raising 4 kids 7 and under solo. Over the past year she’s seen a nasty divorce (while pregnant) and the birth of her youngest who ended up being a cardiac baby. He was diagnosed with 5 different heart defects and has undergone 2 open heart surgeries already, with another on the horizon. She lost her house and had to rehome her dog due to living in the hospital next to her son for months on end. She is the strongest person I know and an absolute rock star of a mom. I’d love to send her a gift card for mother’s day ☺
All of my fellow military spouse Moms who often single parent while their Hero is away, who know that the Army comes first and who deal with emotional roller coasters of moving with children and starting over time and time again. We wipe noses and build swing sets and cook dinner and tuck kids in. And all the while, teaching their children to be proud of their Mom or Dad who is serving our Country. Being a military wife and Mom is hard, but it’s an honor.
Am I an amazing mom? No. But I’m doing the best I can. I have a 17 year old son with mental issues and since my divorce I have been dealing with him alone, and he’s become aggressive and violent. He’s still alive, so that shows some of my character 🙂
My husband is an amazing husband and father. Even after a long day teaching he comes home and is the best dad ever. Even when he is super tired he always finds time to be with our kids (and give me a rest ). Even through all the amazing things he does for our children I know that he is hard on himself for things that he should definitely not be. This would show him how much we love and appreciate all he does for us.
When I think of an awesome mom, I think of my oldest sister, who is not only capably and lovingly raising her own five children, but when her sister-in-law died of cancer, she agreed take in her three orphaned children. And they all adore her, which speaks volumes!
Not only was my mom a great mom who practically raised my sister and me on her own for several years, but she is also taking my sister and her newborn and my two boys and me into her home so we can get back on our feet. It turns out, when it rains, it pours, but we’re so lucky to have a mom (and dad) who are there for us.
My wonderful sister, who is an awesome mommy to twin 4 year old girls & a 2 y.o. boy. She is a lawyer during the week days, then a home cooked meal making, laundry doing, dish washing, bath giver & story time reader to her munchkins the rest of the time. And she still finds time to take them to cool places, church, & family events.
My neighbor, Gretchen. A loving, kind mother who I admire greatly – she home schools (something I could never do), takes the time to be creative with her children (spray painted straws as a sunburst wreath, anyone?), is incredibly supportive of her friends – all while continuing to grow as her own person. She is way too hard on herself – this video has inspired me to have her children write letters to her for Mother’s Day.
My mom, I have an older brother and a younger brother. Growing up we have always known was a great mom (as most kids do) she gave up her life to be a stay at home mom so she could teach us what is really imporant in life, being kind and considerate, putting others needs above our own, all that good stuff. But in 2010 we REALLY seen her strength. My little brother, Joe was diagnosed with leukemia for the first of 2 times. Before this horrific day in 2010, some people would see my mom as door mat, someone to take advantage of, someone that had nothing better to do than to drop whatever she was doing to take care of other peoples duties (because being a stay at home means we all just sit on our butts right?! Insert major eye roll here) So when Joe was diagnosed, a lot of people would have expected her to break, fall apart, and hide in a corner, but my mom emerged into this strong, powerful and mighty mother! She had her moments, don’t get me wrong but what mother wouldn’t when she finds out that her child has a 25% chance of living? But my mom stood tall during those long, grueling months, taking care of my little brother, almost losing their home and living in the hospital, paying a mortage for a house they hadn’t stepped foot in for months. She gave up her life gracefullt, never left Joe’s side. Anyone that has seen what happens to someone during chemo and radiation, countless infections, knows what its like, my mom, bless her heart, did it all.My mom is a soldier, ready for any battle that comes her way! Joe was diagnosed the second time in 2012 and this time he needed a bone marrow transplant or there was 0% chance of survival. I was tested right away and I was a PERFECT 10/10 match. When it was time for me to start gettng daily injections in my stomach that produced HUGE amounts of cells in my already full bones, causing excrusiating pain from the top of my skull to the tips of my toes, where was my mom? Right there by my side taking care of me and Joe at the same time. My mom is a pillar of strength and I’ll tell you right now, NOBODY questions that anymore.
My mom is an amazing lady! She is a single mom to 3 adult children. She will be turning 60 this year and she is still working full time to care for the elderly. I am a single mother myself to 1 beautiful daughter and my mom does everything she can to help us out.
I don’t tell them enough, but my brother and sister Inlaw are f*cking amazing. My nephew has a disease where tumors grow on his organs. He was having seizures and other complications from it. They are both in the Navy, and work their asses off, on top of having a sick child. You would never know by looking at him, he’s so cute and playful (about a year and a half old) and I just think the both of them are so strong, and deserve all the credit in the world. I don’t know how they do it. The tumors will keep growing, and shrinking, and he will have problems for the rest of his life, and he couldn’t have gotten better parents to get him through it!
My Mom and Dad. They moved across the country to be closer to their kids and grandkids.
My friend Bonnie is an amazing mom to three children, one has learning disabilities, one is severely autistic and one is a teenage girl (this last one in itself could put someone over the edge!). She really is an inspiration to me while raising my two children because no matter how bad things may get she finds the humor in the situation and keeps moving forward with a smile!!!
My husband is a great Daddy. All of the little things count – from singing to my belly when I was pregnant to getting our 3 yr old excited about brushing his teeth every night. My son and I are very lucky!
My mom took my 4 year old out shopping with her the other day so I (24 weeks preg) could take a nap. Even though it was my “day off” of work. Bam! Simple stuff like that makes incedible mothers.
My mom has always and continues to be an amazing parent. She was diagnosed with MS in her early 20s and has refused to let it hold her back. I’m sure she’s always been plagued by guilt and feelings of inadequacy, especially when she has her down days and doesn’t have the strength or energy to keep up with us…but we never saw it as she wasn’t doing enough, trying hard enough or being enough for us. She’d always make sure even if she didn’t have it in her to take us to a park or do something super exciting, we’d have movie marathons, cut up strawberries, bake or just sit on our respective couches and both be reading. She always made sure we were together when it would have been so easy to let the disease be a crutch and hide out in her room and left us to video games or the TV as we got older. Through my childhood, my teenage years and now as an adult, my mom has always made sure she was there and present in our lives. I’ve always felt important and special, because she made sure we were together. Now, I’m only a few months from celebrating the fourth anniversary of my 25th birthday 😉 and we live in different states, but she’s always checking in on Facebook, or in Words With Friends, or Dice with buddies, or via text or a phone call and still making sure she my brother and I know she is always there for us and thinking of us. As long as I am even half the mother she was for me, I know my daughter will grow up feeling secure, loved, know she is always going to be the first priority to someone, and like she can depend on my presence.
My mama! Now in her late 50’s has adopted two sisters (a 4yr old and a 15yr old) because she couldn’t bear the thought of them being shipped off to a different state away from their brothers (my mom’s grandsons). She has a heart of gold and there is NOTHING she wouldn’t do for her own children. For example, she is quitting her job at the end of May so she can come help me with my toddler and newborn in Southern California.
There is no way I could make it without my mom. I have 4 boys and work full time while my husband works a full time job, a day a week in the youth center at our local YMCA, plus he is a soldier in the National Guard. To be able to get my kids to any activities that they are in, to have someone around when we work late to be able to put them to bed and get them dinner, making appointments and getting them to them, and countless other things ahead does on a daily basis. She is amazing!
My best friend, Annette, who is mother to two children, one with autism, and one with possible autism, and also a gigi to a sweet little girl and one on the way. She handles it all with grace and poise and only tells me when she needs a boost. I am happy to give it to her!
My friend Melissa Rollins who has 2 kids as a single mom and a high level corporate job and still manages to be there for her kids and friends all the time. I am in awe of her and her abilities. She is the kind of mom I strive to be 🙂 when more often than not, i am just like you!
My mom recently moved in with my family and she is constantly stepping in to help with our 2yr and 4yr old. She will watch them, play with them, read to them, etc. She loves hanging out with her granddaughters.
My hubby is a firefighter half the time and a stay at home dad the other half. So basically, he never gets a break. I don’t know what I would do with out him. On the flip side, I am basically a single mom when is he gone 3 or 4 day out of the week… and working full time. Bottom line is we would give our left arms to make sure our 2 children are happy and healthy! Half the time, being a parent is hard. Really F’ing hard. But heck, the other half of the time is soooooo darn amazing. I love watching my little mini-me’s grow up. And I LOVE your posts!
Patting myself on the back for effectively controlling my 9 and 4 year olds ADHD symptoms and bringing our 6 year old out of autistic-like behavior through diet alone! Especially proud when I was told it couldn’t be done because they were too severe of behavioral issues. Now I have neighbors that stop me to tell me that my kids are the best behaved and most polite kids on the block!!
My own mom, who was just diagnosed with breast cancer but still manages to be the most positive person I know! Such an amazing influence for my son and me!
My husband is amazingly supportive, such a hard worker, and my biggest cheerleader! Our boys love him and I am so glad they have an amazing example of what a man should be! Blessed beyond words!
My mom! She raised 6 kids and has 6 grandkids. I have no idea how she hasn’t completely lost her $hit dealing with all of us and our various quirks and personalities. She is absolutely the definition of a “super mom.”
My nan is like a second mother to me. I have find memories of sleepovers at her house and stuffing us full of goodies like ice cream and anything else we wanted lol. She has Alzheimer’s now and it makes me sad to know my kids won’t get the chance to know her the way I did. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there and thanks for the awesome giveaway!!
My amazing boyfriend takes care of my daughter As his own. He knows if I have had too much and he takes her away and calms us both down. He’s always there for her and she loves him!
My sister in law is an amazing mom. She tackles two daughters close in age along with a full time job. Also takes care of my brother… So I guess you could say she has 3 children. Her daughters are turning out to be amazing little girls and much of as to why is because of Her
I would say my son is doing an excellent job. He is a single dad and in a wheelchair. He is surviving on disability right now but checks each day for new job listings. Even entry level IT jobs say 1-2 years experience required which has to be so disheartening, but he keeps his spirits up and a smile on his face. He says all he has to do is look at his son to feel grateful for his blessing. His son Eric is a sweetheart and I don’t think you could find a more well-adjusted 4 year old anywhere. Dad plays catch with him, they go to the park and the library. Matt fixes a nice dinner each day except Sunday when he comes over to my house to do laundry and have some down time while I get to play with my grandson.
My mom was the best and raised my sister and I pretty much by herself from the time I was 2 and my sister was 3 until she met and married my step-dad when we were 13 & 14. She put herself through night school, took all the classes she could after that and worked a full time job. Never once did we see her complain about how hard life was or what little we had and she made sure to teach us the value of hard work and perseverance. ♥
My friend Abby – she has 3 kids, and her youngest (3) was recently diagnosed with leukemia. She’s been at his bedside (he’s been in the hospital dealing with infections) almost non-stop, only taking “breaks” to spend time with her other kids and be there for important (and even non-important) events. She’s amazing!
I am a single mom to two beautiful little girls, sometimes we struggle and some times I feel like I’m failing but the other day my six year old told me that no matter what I always make her day happy 🙂
And babysideburns you always put a smile on my face too! I can’t wait till I can get a copy of your book. Moms rock ✊
Doing a great job at not yelling. Yelled up to my daughter to leave her brother alone and she wasn’t even in the room with him. #parentingfail my mom does so well by leading by example. I didn’t always understand the “why” but for the most part the decisions she’s made with us has purpose and seem to be right!
For once I am going to pat myself on the back. Being the mom of 5 is crazy and confusing and hard and the best job ever. I have recently been doubting myself and wondering how bad I have messed up. My youngest child has been suffering massive panic attacks. I felt like I failed her in some way. Middle school sucks. I took her to the Dr.’s to talk to them, I got her a big sister to give her some one on one girl time. The attacks kept coming. She would call or text me from school. I was so worried. Then she said ‘mom, talking to you really helps me”….maybe I am doing something right. On the heels of that my youngest son (16), recently got to go on a trip to D.C with the marching band. He was supposed to go as it wasn’t required and it was way out of our price range this year. Anyhow….he went. I figured he would soak up 4 glorious days with his friends and I would have to beg him to let me know he had arrived safe. Nope, no begging. He texted me daily to fill me in on all the great things he did. He randomly texted me he loved me. I couldn’t ask for more than that. Knowing that my kids WANT to talk to me makes me believe that I really am doing something right.
My BFF, Stacey, is amazing, she has 3 young kiddos and works hard everyday to take care of them. Her hubs works hard too and sometimes has to leave them to work out of town for several weeks at a time, leaving her to do the mama and dada duties! She takes it all in stride and still holds down a full time job, while schleping them around to school, sitters, grandmas and errands all over town. I think she is a wonderful BFF and an amazing mom…even on those ‘not so good days’ she outdoes most of us!
Me! My 4 month old keeps me up all night and my 2 year old runs me ragged all day. But they’re healthy and happy, so I am too.
My best friend who has a 2 yr old that needs a lot of care and a baby that just turned 1. She has been to dozens of doctor & therapy appts each month for almost a year & hasn’t complained once. She somehow stays positive through it all – she amazes me every day. Definition of a SuperMom!
My mom Will drop anything to come and help us with her grand kids! She will drive an hour to watch a sickie so I can work. She drives over an hour to help my sister out one day a week. Meanwhile, she alternately cares for her own 102 year old mother on a daily basis! I want to be her when I grow up! 🙂
My mom and dad have been the most amazing people in my life. They work ridiculously hard and are always there for me!
My amazing friend who has 3 boys. She is crazy busy and is doing amazing things with her kids. She is now fostering a 6 week old baby who was born into a bad situation. She is getting no sleep and still raising these incredible kids, all the while volunteering for school activities, coaching soccer, and taking care of a now family of 6. She is incredible. I am proud to call her my friend!!!
My Mom. She’s always there for me- to listen to me b***h, b***h with me, laugh afterwards etc, etc. She watches my son while I work (& he’s 2 so it’s not easy). And on top of all that she takes care of my grandma & grandpa. She truly is a rockstar & my best friend! Happy Mother’s Day Mom- Love You!
My amazing husband, who is such a fantastic father!
My amazing Mom And Mother In Law For Both Being There For Me And My Family At All Times!
My mom is an amazing mom. She is always there for her daughters and grandchildren. She was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, and yet, she continues to keep fighting! She is such an inspiration!
I am teaching my kids responsibility, manners and how to be respectful. These things I find incredibly important and over time I have noticed how these things are forgotten or even ignored.
I’m really torn because I have 2 amazing friends and my sister that are my go to girls when I feel like I suck at this whole mom thing. They are all more than worthy but I have to go with Becki because she’s doing it alone. She has 2 great boys and an amazing sassy daughter that she carts to every activity under the sun. she is my hero because she can walk away when she needs too without spazzing out on the kids. She picks her battles so much better than I seem to! The most beautiful thing to me is she doesn’t ever get into the reasons behind her divorce with her kids, or talk bad about Dad (even though he deserves it sometimes). So many times she could have called him out bit she won’t because it would hurt her kids.
Ohhh and she introduced me to Baby Sideburns!
I wish I could tell my mom- she passed away, I could tell you how amazing my oldest son and daughter are at parenting my two amazing grand children (One each, of course., Get your mind out of the gutter!) but instead, i”ll tell you of my as of yet childless youngest. She is the one who “mommed” her friends when she was in college. She still takes charge and nurtures at her workplace and personal life. You don’t have to procreate to be ‘that’ person in so many people’s lives. I am proud of her, and I know where she ‘gets it from’. 😉
I think all of us are doing a good job! In our ways, we manage to do the hardest job out there. Whether we work, stay at home, have a nanny, single parent, double parent, step parent, we put on our super hero capes & fly on trying to the best we can day by day! Cheers to us moms!!
I am going to vote for myself and all the other moms who have children with special needs. We kick a*s!!
My mother in law is thebest mother i know. I started dating my husband when i was 16. Im 34 now and we have been married for 11 years. I cannot imagine my life without her. She is the village that i rely on with my own kids. She has dropped everything on several occasions to help me, my husband and my kids. My own mom and i are not close. She is the closest rhing to a mom i have. She is the most selfless person i know. Shes taught me to can, to sew, to crochet, shes taught my daughter to tie her shoes, my son how to cook.shes an amazing woman and if i end up being half the wife and mother she is, itll be a blessing.
my amazing bff who watches Ms. Thing while we.have to work. she totally team parents w us LOVE HER beyond the moon & stars
I am a stay at home mom, I have 2 wild and crazy kids. My son has Aspergers and is in the 2nd grade. He might make it one day a week through school. I also have a little princess that thinks she knows it all. On top of all my stress we are moving this month. Our new house will not be ready till Aug. I will be living in an RV with my kids and my husband all summer.
My husband is a wonderful Dad. Even though he was raised in a traditional home with gender specific roles, he does not father the same. He does not hesitate to jump in and do everything when required.
My sister is the most amazeballs super mom! She has MS, but instead of whining she works full time (currently the only one in the home who does)and has the best behaved children you could dream of. A 12 year old that never has two be asked to do his chores… NEVER! and five year old twins that could raise holy terror, but are the sweetest kids ever. No matter what kind of day she cooks a meal every night and sits her children down with her to eat every night and focuses on their needs. Today I called her and she was up on her roof reshingling it. I asked why? Because it’ll get done twice as fast if she helps. Did I mention she has MS?
Emily Jane, who I’d never met, and who was working at Jethro’s Fine Grub in Vancouver, B.C., one morning when I walked in with my husband and 2yo daughter, close to tears because I felt like I was screwing up so bad, irreparably breaking my kid, my marriage and myself. She brought a bag of her own kids’ toys from her purse, for my daughter to play with, gave me a pep-talk and a hug and a cup of coffee. If you are in Vancouver, stop in at Jethro’s for some seriously good breakfast or lunch grub, and leave a huge tip for Emily Jane. She kicks a*s, and should be an example to us all of how we should be supporting each other as moms, women and humans.
All of the women in my life are awesome mothers. They don’t get it right 100% of the time, and sometimes they even get it straight up wrong, but who the hell is anyone to judge? They all love their kids fiercely and are all badass mamas.
My Mom, because she’d fly across the country at a moments notice to help out if I asked her. She is the greatest Mom and Grandmother in the world.
My friend Katie who lost her baby shortly before his 2nd birthday…she works to support the other 3 children and her husband. She’s amazing!
My husband does an amazing job being a parent. He’s our rock. Without him I would not feel like I was a good parent because, like you said, I’m so hard on myself. My husband has so much patience, he has gentle words, he’s consistent …even when he’s tired. He’s always making the boys laugh and making sure no one takes life to seriously. He’s our rock. Hes a great dad and because of his awesomeness he makes me feel like a better mom…who doesn’t want to feel like that?!
My Sister is working full time as an occupational therapist while raising her 2 beautiful and smart daughters. 🙂
My best friend is raising her two kids on her own. She lost her fiance to a hidden perscription drug addiction 1.5 years ago. She is doing an amazing job despite not having family to help. She works two jobs and does everything she can for them. I have 4 kids of my own with a husband and family near, she inspires me daily.
My mom is the best. I have an 18 month old daughter and I work full-time. My mom comes over on Mondays when I am working to help clean the house and makes us something for dinner. She has always put us first.
Well, raising 3 kids by myself, and slowing learning that I too am a good mom. Don’t have to be a Pinterest mom to be awesome. I want to be an awesome mom, following blogs and reading every book under the sun, but Then I realize that I Am Doing alright. I already know how to be a great mom, even on days that my kids are late for school, or we have cereal for dinner. My kids look up to me and I need to be confidant that I am a good mom EVERYDAY. Then on days that the stars align and I’m really awesome, I can JUST smile and say Yeah, I’ve totally got this!
BrMy best friend since first grade. She recently returned to her full time position after baby number 2 and has struggled with rhat d**n mom guilt that haunts our dreams. Shes an amazing mom and friend. Just want her to know how amazing she is even if she dowsnt believe it right now!
A friend from high school with 4 kids ranging from 19 years to 1 year. She adores them and struggles with her anxiety and depression, but never stops showing up for them.
My amazing best friend!! She is raising her 2 year old son on her own and often questoons herself, but she is doing a wonderful job!! I’m so proud of her!
I needed to read this for myself. Sometimes it feels good to be given assurance that we are doing a good job!
My mom! She takes care of her grand kids when she can. One is bejng really trying right now and bringing her to tears. I wish I was closer to help. She is the best!
That moment you hear your oldest (16) discipline his cousins because he’s protecting his littlest sister (1), that’s when you know you’re doing something right.
An old friend of mine who’s little girl is battling cancer. She is so strong despite all of the challenges and setbacks they are facing!!!
My mother..she had to watch all three of my boys this past weekend. Girls weekend planned..BC. Before Cobey. He is four months old. And I have a six and four year old. She made it through and didn’t complain once..now she will be sleeping for four days. She is the best.
Baby Sideburns, you make day whenever I read your posts! The first person I can think of as the most awesome mom, is my sister, Jennifer. She is technically not a single mom, but might as well be. She lives about 45 minutes away from her job, the only place that she can afford right now, and leaves her home at 5:30 am every day to bring her kids to day care, in order to make it to work in time. She works 45-50 hour weeks in an opthamology office seeing patients all day and never even being able to stop for lunch, and has to still pick up her kids afterwards. She is exhausted when she gets home and still manages to get in homework, making a reasonable dinner, getting things ready for school, playing with her kids, playdates, appoinments, etc. On the weekends, she somehow makes it to important family get togethers on the weekends even though she lives an hour away, deals with cars that sometimes work, kids having birthday parties to go to, limited income, etc. She feels horrible that she cannot sign her kids up for activities as she simply cannot get them there. She will sometimes decline times together as she feels that she wants to do something with her kids. She is a very blunt person, and says what she thinks and feels doesn’t care what people . She always finds time to post something on Facebook that is either a picture of her and her kids, or something about how adorable they are and how much she loves them. Her support network near her is practically nothing and she does it all by herself as her husband is away working and when he is home, does not contribute. She always talks about how much she loves her kids and wishes how she could do more. The best part is, her kids send her text messages about how much they love her, and worry about her if they sleep over with their cousins, telling her to lock the doors, etc. They always treat her with the utmost respect, adore her, and listen to her. They are always hugging her and tell me how much they love her. Her children are so bright, caring, loving and well adjusted, I cannot believe how she does it. All this with the limited time that she has with them. It’s amazing to me, and I think she is the absolute mother- of -the -year. She does so much with so much on her plate, and so little resources, I can only hope that my kids look at me the way hers do to her, and that I can hope to be a fraction of a person and parent that she is.
I hate to toot my own horn but I am a mother of 3 pre-teen/ teenagers and an infant toddler teacher. What I do right is love & respect my kiddos (all of them) and strive to be a positive influence in their lives and to help them grow into caring, honest respectful people. I also go out of my way to build up other moms and let them vent to me when needed.
I would have to say me! This is my first child and he is 15 months and after suffering from PPD (that I’m sure is still happening), I manage to be an awesome Mommy! I am so flawed and like you I am almost certain I am making so many mistakes. But the one thing I DO KNOW, is that I love my little dude and even my mistakes are shining moments in his eyes. Balancing chasing a toddler, chasing a career and chasing happiness i my engagement leaves little time for me. I am exhausted most days but I am surround by love and give it abundantly, so I am blessed! All us Mommies are AWESOME!!!
My co-worker Brandi. She has 2 kids and is an amazing mom. She’s a single working full time and wanting to go back to school. 🙂
I actually used to like your posts until you just advertised for Minute Maid. It’s not about the kids saying thank you to the parents, but the parents buy the Minute Maid…they’re brilliant to get in any back door they can.
I Think my husband is doing an amazing job. He’s a training doctor and often works more than 80 hours a week and studies even more. He always finds time to spend with our 2 boys and myself
My friend Laura is a remarkable mom. Not only for the parenting of her two boys, but also for how she inspires and helps other moms. As a military family, her children’s early years were spent in another country, far from family (and before Skype). Laura pushed aside any feeling of homesickness she may have had and seized life abroad as an opportunity for one-of-a-kind adventures and teaching experiences. A single parent during her husband’s deployments, she still managed to share her time and talents with others by participating in family support groups and by creating children’s fitness & story hour classes, often tailored to the unique circumstances of a military family. The sharing of her time and talents in ways like that continues to this day. When I became a mom, Laura was my role model and mentor. I can ask her anything and share my rawest emotions without fear of judgment or scorn.
My best friend Rita has three kids under the age of two, and is rocking it! Her husband is finishing his residency this June, but until then they have been living in a tiny apartment. The twin babies have to sleep in the dining room! She even gets her toddler outside to play some days. I think she is amazing.
My good friend is a wonderful mom of 4 kids. I don’t know how she does it;) she works hard & shows so much love to her kiddos.
My friend, Ally, is an amazing mom! Her hubby has to work out of town a lot and she takes care of their son, house, and pets..she also takes care of her hubby when he’s home. Her son plays sports and she never misses a game – she also has a positive attitude in the stands when others do not. She takes him to all sorts of activities and puts him and his needs before herself. I had the pleasure of teaching her son 2 yrs ago and he was always so respectful bc of all that she instilled in him. She’s a breath of fresh air for sure and the kind of mom I want to be one day!
My Mom! She’s always there for my 3 kids and my hubby and me. She’s been a Godsend through tough times, looking after us, feeding us, etc. And all this while she cares for her 94 year old mom who is suffering from Dementia! She’s honest (even if it’s hard to hear sometimes) and caring and selfless! I hope I manage to do half as good a job as she did and continues to do.
You do a great job, too BSB! Keep up the great work! HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
My Mom, she moved back to Texas away from Florida with her new hubby just to take care of my Grandma (her Mom). My Grandmother moved in with my mom and her new hubby into a new house mom bought in 3 days. When she found out my Grandmother didn’t want to be alone, she sold her house in Florida and bought a new one, moved halfway across the country in less than 30 days. My Grandma died this past Feb 1st, but my loving mother took care of her for 2 and a half wonderful years. So the least I can do is give her a $25o gift card if I win
My mom. Not only did she do an amazing job of raising me and my brother when we were small, she has continued to be a wonderful example of the BEST any kid could ask for over the years. She saw me through some of the darkest times of my life (and there were some very dark times, Lifetime-movie-worthy stuff). Recently she has stepped up to a more active role in helping me with my two children (her grandkids) because I had major foot/ankle surgery last month and am looking at long rehabilitation time, and I am not very mobile yet. My fiance works nights and so I am stuck unable to do much during the day. My mom has never once complained about the dual duty of having to help me get around in a wheelchair or having to chaffeur my children to their myriad activities since I am unable to drive at the moment. She brings me dinners she has pre-cooked so I can easily heat them up for the family without causing stress to my foot. She does all this even though she has her own health problems, including fibromyalgia and chronis fatigue. But most of all, she displays so much patience with my kids – and I have to say I can’t even muster up that degree of patience most days. She is everything I could ever hope to become and she is definitely doing everything right! I hope to one day be as amazing as she is 🙂
I think I’m a bad a*s mom b/c I just passed along my copy of “I Heart My Little A-Holes” to my pregnant friends so they will know it’s okay not to be the perfect cookie-cutter mom. This is my ultimate favorite book. I am ordering more to pass along and I hope you write more!!!
Oh, my Mom. She is the best. She has 4 kids and loves us all. Shes an awesome MIL and Grandma too. Her example of being a supportive wife gives her a gold medal. (My Dad is a Pastor) She gives tirelessly of her love, encouragment & prayers.
She gives me a good dose of accountability and a swift kick in the b**t if she feels im not doung my best for her Grandkids!
My daughter’s bus driver, Leslie. I don’t know how she does it! 2 teenagers and a 5 year old at home, then arrives at every bus stop with a smile and a good morning no matter the day or weather!! She is a temporary mother to 20+ kids every time she does her route. She’s amazing.
I am a new single mom after relocating to another state due to domestic violence. I am teaching my kids everyday that they can do anything they want of they try!
My mommy did it right. She was a military spouse so was basically a single mother to us 3 kids when we were younger. At one point she was a home daycare provider full time as well as doing night classes yet she still managed to keep the house clean, put home cooked meals on the table and spend time with us. She has also shown us what unconditional love really is by never turning her back on us, even when we made less than desireable choices. Even now, her awesomeness is shared with the grandkids.
My bff, Leah. She is an awesome mama, and I feel lucky to be able to raise our boys together!!
My brother and sister in law have been working with their non verbal 2 year old tirelessly, he sees a speech therapist and is being evaluated for autism which we don’t think he has. They started trying to teach him sign language and today posted a video of him saying “cuh” which is a huge step!
My friend passed away 14 months ago and her husband stepped up to continue to help raise her almost 14 year old son and took over raising their 2.5 year old boy/girl twins, and their 12 day old baby girl that she left behind. Adrian is doing an amazing job raising the kids all by himself and he has continued to be very close with her family so they will always know who there mommy is and how much she loved them. She was an amazing Mommy and she lived for her kids! It breaks my heart that her 3 little ones will never remember her.
I always feel I’m failing as a mom like 50 times a day, but then I realize I’m doing alright when my 2 year old says I love you mommy and gives me a hug! That’s what I know I can do best, is show him how much I love him!
My amazing, wonderful, handsome husband who is the worlds best father and stay at home dad. He catches a lot of grief for being a guy and not having a “real job”, but I think he has the most important job there is, he supports my career, plus he is our son’s hero. With little man number two due any day, I couldn’t think of a better partner in crime!
My wonderful husband who takes care of me and our 6 kids all while working 55 hours a week – he worries he isn’t doing enough! Yeah, right babe – you are SUPERMAN!!
My friend carol does an amazing job as a mom because she is so level headed and never freaks out. And she’s so strong! I channel her strength and resolve when dealing with my own kids every day.
My sister, Stephanie, is in the middle of a horrible divorce from a horrible man and she has two young children. She is often overwhelmed but she is doing an amazing job balancing everything even though she is exhausted and her hours are crazy. I am so proud if her strength!!!
My cousin is raising three kids under 7 and her middle child is autistic and even though she is a single parents she manages to keep her kids in different activities
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
I am doing a great job. Not perfect but I give 100% to my son- all d**n day everyday.
My friend listens, and laughs, at all her son’s jokes, even when few are funny. 🙂
I think many of the single parents out there feel like they are not doing enough for their kids, even though they are being both mother and father but have no one to take over for them EVER.
3 months ago my mom had a stroke while we were working out together. I never thought that would be the last day I would ever talk to her…this video was beautiful. She would have loved it. My mom was an amazing, generous, selfless person who I saw almost every day when she was alive. I told her regularly how much she meant to me but I really hope that she believed it and felt how irreplaceable she really was. :/
My amazing mom has always put her kids first and still continues to now that we’re grown with our own kids. She’s going in for her first chemo treatment tomorrow and she’s going to kick cancer in the b**t because that’s the kind of lady she is =) She’s not just my mother but my best friend too. I’m a lucky girl.
My Friend Lisa Winans who is a single mom getting her life back after a nasty separation! She’s is looking to Christ and is setting a good example to her daughter.
My husband. Despite his ongoing medical issues, he still wakes up every day ready to be a dad.
I want to honor my sister-in-law, Allison. We have a good relationship but have not been as close as we could be. I do not think she knows how amazing I think she is and what a wonderful job she has done raising both of my nieces, but especially her daughter, Natalie, who has autism. Natalie was born right when people were just finding out more about what autism was and how to give their children full and meaningful lives. Allison and my brother jumped in with both feet and today Natalie is a beautiful teenager who dances so beautifully. She is a straight A student at a regular middle school, plays french horn for the local orchestra (an honor that is not often given to her age group). While not all of the kids with autism are able to mainstream this well, I know that Allison’s tireless work with Natalie has helped her get to where she is today. So, I just wanted her to know that she is doing a great job and she is a hero.
My best friend Kerri, who is raising two very young boys by herself and another on the way…and questions her parenting with any free second she has. If only she could see what I see and the way her kids adore her!
My mother is amazing. She never gives up on me, even though I don’t always make the best decisions with my life. She’s always been my biggest cheerleader.
Me! My husband had brain surgery in the beginning of last year. We are still struggling to find our new “normal.” Add to that two kids, 23 kindergarten students, 13 t-ball boys, and a start-up Etsy business. The days are long and filled with doubt and questions. But there is good and love in every day.
My vote goes to you, baby sideburns. Though you joke about your daily situations and how you dream of quiet and time alone, you are actually super involved and supportive of your kids. You are so loving to your husband and bring laughter into every situation. Thanks for always making me smile and saying the things we all think but don’t have the courage to say some times.
My sister dies an awesome job as a parent. She has patience for days and while she is a doting mom, she’s found that perfect balance of guidance and doting that is leading to a well-developed young man.
My bestie Chrystal is doing an awesome job!! She works full-time and makes sure her little family has home cooked meals and time together! She’s raising a smart, beautiful little girl, and is even rocking a small business on the side. No matter what’s going on she still has a smile on her face, her house isn’t a train wreck, and she’s teaching her daughter how to be great!!
My sister who always said she never wanted kids but raised two wonderfull kiddos who are the nicest high school kids I’ve ever seen in this day & age.
I actually always thought to myself that I was not doing a good enough job with my daughter that I could do better. I only thought I was the one thinking this way to see this makes someone feel so much better. I feel as I’m a good mom because my daughter is only 2 years old and really smart I believe that to be my doing I always talk to her and explain things to her so she can understand ever since she was born. She knows her abc.Anyone can actually sit and have a full conversation with her.
I’m an awesome mom by honoring my angel son (Jayden Charles, HLHS) by spreading awareness and doing charity work to help support other children with life threatening heart defects.
My sister who is pregnant with her second and is being strong with complications. She has already had the intestinal flu while pregnant, taken care of her 2 year old who then caught the flu, then caught the flu again. I’m pregnant with my second also and I complain 300X more than her. I don’t know how she does it.
My mum raised 3 of us by herself I’m the youngest and she was a single mother from the time I was 7.5 months old. Now with two aged 2.5 and ten months I’m starting to realize how truly awful cough awesome that would be.
Alison Miranda is doing an amazing job. She is a SAHM, the toughest job out there. Not only that she is a wife, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, a volunteer, a student, and a March of Dimes Ambassador Family. She often will do anything for anyone, usually with little to no consideration for herself. She’s one of the most selfless people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. She’s the second best thing to come out of my NICU experience, the first of course being my daughter. Xoxoxo
My 3 year old daughter is being an AMAZING parent lately! Of course I’m still parenting her, but I’ve been in a lot of dental agony lately. If she sees so much as a hint of sadness or pain in my eyes she is right there, rubbing my cheek and asking what she can do, that she loves me, and that I’ll “feel better morning.”. All this while juggling full-day preschool, coloring, practicing her phonics, caring for her own “babies,” AND keeping up with Dora. She even managed to whip me up a big pot of soup in her kitchen, the kind full of plastic cookies, corn, and a pizza slice. Remarkable girl!
Looking back on it I see her special brand of TLC is based on what she’s gotten from me, but in the moment, it’s all her. If we win a prize there will be some new “babies” and “food” in her future. Gotta keep this girl in business!
BTW I always show her your kids’ photos when you post them. She likes “the boy” as she calls Holden. Totally not sucking up, trufax.
I am almost 40 years old, yet my mom continues to put my, my sisters, and our children’s needs before her own. Whether we need help transporting or watching one of our children, need help ourselves, or even if one of our adult friends needs help, my mom will be there. Her mother-in-law has needed help over the years and she graciously helps out when needed. And, just recently, her own mother has had kidney failure and a stroke, and my mom has spent every spare moment helping her. All of her friends, our friends, and our family would easily list my mom as the most selfless woman we know. I wish I could give my mom something in return, although I know she only wants love and is happy to not receive material momentos of appreciation. Thanks mom, I love you and appreciate you more than you could ever know!
My friend and babysitter Jodi is an amazing mom who also takes care of my baby and my big kid when I’m at work. She always had good things to say about the kids (even when I know it was probably a crazy day with the 5 kids she has between the two of us) and she takes such good care of my kids. I’m lucky to have her!
My friend Judy Johnson is an amazing mom…single, 3 boys, all in sports, all on honor roll…all by herself. I have never seen a more dedicated mother . She is determined that they go far in life and not struggle like she does.
My mom who has 3 teenage a-holes. (Boys) who want to make her jump off a cliff, every. Single. Day. She just got laid off yesterday but is amazing because she is willing to find a crappy side job to make ends meet after being a bank manager for 20 years! Love you mama<3
Too many great Mommy’s to single out in my life, so I will say me! I parent 2 great kids, work full time, lead a girl scout troop, volunteer for charities, and still try to read to my petite bebes every night. We have much love
My mother not only takes my daughter to daycare each day, she also wakes up at night with her and my mom watches my daughter anytime All while working full time and living with me and my husband and our daughter. She’s amazing.
My sister has been struggling with addiction for years and now finally after months of waiting got into a mother and children’s program. We re all so proud she made this decision. She’s a fantastic mom to my niece and deserves to be recognized for her hard work and daily struggles. Its cant be easy. I admire her strength and love for her daughter.
I am the result of teenage pregnancy. My mother survived scrutiny in her last year of high school and married the wrong man (my father). She endured years of mental verbal and physical abuse for the sake of striving to keep a family foundation for me. She is brave. She is fearless. And in the end she rose like the Phoenix. She divorced the deadbeat after she made sure I was ready for the fight of our lives (which it was). Then she went to junior college while I was in high school and when I graduated we went to college together and graduated within a year of eachother. She’s a warrior and I love her for living for us. Together we rose out of turmoil and showed the world we can do it. She’s my best friend. The only one who really understand my quirky life and she listens with an impartial opinion. This Mothers day I thank my mom for fighting and being the best role model and teacher. She taught me to live by learning from her mistakes and taught me not to make the same ones. Her advice worked. But don’t tell her that (haha). We wouldn’t want any swelled heads now. I love you mom.
I don’t know how bad it would be to pick myself, but I pick myself. 4 months ago I had my second baby. A beautiful little brother to my 2.5 year old daughter. The day I got released from the hospital we moved to a new city where I knew no one because my husband got a new job. It was the hardest trasition of my life. My mom came and stayed a week with me but after that, I was on my own. I spent a lot of days crying and messing up. My son cried so much and my sweet little daughter got cabin fever and restless. She was so used to being around her friends and going out to play almost everyday. It’s been 4 months and I have done a lot by myself with very little sleep. I make dinner for my husband every night, I’m potty training my daughter, which that alone makes me cry, and running trail and error with sleep training my 4mo, which btw works sometimes, and most times does not. On top of all that I’m fighting really hard to build relationships with other moms here and be strong for my fellow moms back home. Everyday I mess up. Sometimes I don’t wanna deny myself and hold to my sons sleep schedule, sometimes I don’t want to argue with my daughter about why she can’t pee in her underwear, sometimes I wanna tell my husband to figure out his own dinner, most times I just wanna sleep, but I don’t. I over work myself day in and day out so I can attempt this mommy job from a new angle, trying new ways to approach situations, making plans, loving and bonding with my family. I totally understand now, why parents had servants in the old days. Being a parent is not a one person job, it takes a village. I just wish there were directions or a direct line to this village.
This post is so timely (and not cuz it’s almost Mother’s Day…lol). I’m going to nominate me and pretty much every mom out there who gives a sh…uh, does their best. I know, I’m a generous soul but seriously – I’m always down on myself about all the stuff that other moms seem to do that I don’t, I just can’t seem to measure up to all those moms that are successful in their chosen profession, run like 30 miles a week and Crossfit every other day, find time to get their hair done at the salon like every month and nails every week or two, do full on hair and makeup every day (okay, I actually don’t want to do that every day – I’m a mascara and eyebrows kinda girl), volunteer for everyfrigginthing, seem to spend almost as much time in their kid’s classroom as they do at their job (if they work outside the home), have a beautifully decorated home, and throw Pinterest-perfect parties. Seriously, wtf? Do they have a Time-Turner? But I have had a few friends comment to me out of the blue lately (weird, is the Universe trying to tell me something?) that they don’t know how I do it all. All I see is what I DON’T do – my house isn’t as spotless as I like it to be, I’m gone 11 hours a day between my commute from the suburbs and my actual workday – so the thought of spending another hour or two after work going to the gym or something makes me feel like WorstMomEver because homework and bonding and actually cooking dinner, I duck my head when they’re asking for people to volunteer as some position or another (sure, when would I do that???), my house is still only half decorated and we’ve lived there for almost two years, my job is pretty cool with taking time off – but I’m pretty sure that they wouldn’t be okay with me taking time off every week to volunteer in the classroom, shaving my legs before I look like Chewbacca’s cousin sounds like a lot to ask let alone actually getting my hair cut more than twice a year, and the PTA seems like a giant Mean Girls club to me. Talk about a wake up to hear people say that they don’t know how I went to school full time, graduated in three years Summa Cum Laude while taking care of two kids, husband, dog and house AND working (it was only part time, don’t give me too much credit), work full time, cook dinner, and all the other stuff I manage to actually fit in my day. I think we need to give ourselves a bit more of a break. While we’re busy knocking ourselves down about how awesome we’re not – there are plenty of people who see how awesome we ARE – let’s join those people.
My friend kaitlyn, who is raising her two year old daughter, and took on her boyfriends 3 children as her own!
My mom is amazing! She also seems to know what I need before I ask and is a great support system! It really takes a village to raise a family and I couldn’t do it without her!
My best friend Leeanne. She is raising 3 kids, and now going through a divorce because her husband “strayed” . She lost her sister 3 years ago and lost one of her good friends two weeks ago. She has been in AA recovery for 3-4 years now…and honestly with all the crap shes had going on I personally don’t know how she hasn’t fallen off of the wagon yet…or lost her mind. She has been holding it all together through this whirlwind of crazy shes had to deal with and she is doing an absolutely amazing job!!!!
My mom is an amazing mother. I am so thankful for her. She raised me and my two while my dad was cheating on her and then even helped raise my half brother when be was born with minor complications. She always put us first.
My best friend is an awesome parent to 2 wonderful girls. I aspire to be like her and am always asking for advice so my 2 young boys can grow up as great as her children. Loving, Kind, respect. ALL of the qualities great people have 🙂
My mom! She raised 8 kids with 2 still at home right now. She is always patient with us, even we it would be totally ok to yell and scream. She is an amazing example and always loves us.
Baby Sideburns. Wow! You have a ton of comments! I am not even sure you will have a chance to read them all. However, I want to put down in writing how amazing my cousin Katie Greer is! She is a 32 year old, married mother of 2 precious boys, Coleman and Hayes. Katie is also a full time nursing student. Just after Christmas 2014, Katie was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. That’s right…32 years old! She pressed pause on nursing school for a few months until she could grasp the reality of living with cancer and how she was going to respond to treatment. 5 months later, she has resumed nursing school, she just completed her 6th round of chemo (2 to go), all while still running her household and attending school like a champ! Her faith is so strong. I admire Katie and her positve outlook on this terrible disease. Not once has Katie ask “why me?” Her response has always been “why not me?” Cancer does not discriminate. Ladies…be proactive and listen to your bodies. Don’t always assume the doctors are right.
My mom is truly the best. She raised 3 daughters (we are now 43, 46, and 49) while my dad worked 3rd shift and over the road for 30 years. My mom was our driver, banker, shopper, everything. She started working part time when I entered elementary school, but was always home by the time I got home every day, never was she late. She did this until I (the youngest) graduated from high school, then she took a full time position. She drove us to our dance classes, instrument lessons, school activities, friends house, and most importantly, roller skating!! She also was the first mom to offer to pick us up at midnight!! She is always there to help with her grandkids, I have 3 of my own and I don’t think I’ve ever purchased a diaper or wipes!! Now she is entering the world of being a Great Grandma, and also she is planning her 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration, her and my dad will be taking all of the kids, grandkids, and great grandkids on an Alaskan Cruise. See, who could ask for a better mom. She is simply the best mom EVER.
My seester who has 4 kids from 14 to 8 months old and somehow still cooks dinner and gets them all to and from school and daycare with a full time job!
I’m giving a shout out to myself! (Because I don’t do it enough either). I’m a military wife and stay-at-home mother and recently started my own business. And MOST of the time, I do a pretty darn good job remembering what’s most important each day- making sure my children have a wonderful childhood. (Therefore, my laundry is ALWAYS wrinkled in the dryer… But that’s just my excuse for not doing it). 🙂
I will say myself just because of you Karen, who every time I feel like the shittiest lazyest mother ever, I get a new post for you and it brings me back to reality and make me feel like I am not alone. I can’t thank you enough for keeping it real (and funny!).
I think my wife is the awesomest mom ever. I know I’m supposed to say that but really shes pretty cool. We are lesbian moms of an autistic son (that I gave birth to). DO NOT feel bad for me. Being a lesbian is great – honestly, I don’t really understand straight women – men are hairy and sweaty and penises are not at all attractive. The only bad part about the lesbian thing (besides the whole civil rights thing) is that my son is constantly pointing to strangers in the mall saying “Is THAT my daddy?” Also don’t feel bad that my son is autistic, because he is the greatest little boy I could ever have hoped for and I wouldn’t change a thing. And he’s friggin adorable to boot. So why is my wife the awesomest? When my son was diagnosed with autism at 20 months, the developmental pediatrician said his autism was relatively mild and she recommended we get early intervention immediately, and hopefully he could have a good prognosis. I said, good prognosis, as in, astrophysicist? as in, cashier at Target? as in, might be able to dress himself someday? And she says “it all depends if you get early intervention, and if you do it right.” WTF? No pressure there. So what does the wifey do? She starts calling the EI people, tells them that their wait time is unacceptable, gets services in record time, quits her job so she can cart him around, and starts signing him up for every program under the sun. And her job was no joke, either. She is a career woman and had a pretty high paying job. But she wiggled the finances to make it work. She also started taking classes on autism, read a million books, and flew to Denver to take even more classes on the latest therapies so she could do them at home. And after all this, she just popped out our second little angel a couple months ago, and gets absolutely no sleep, because when she’s not with the baby, she makes sure our oldest feels just as loved. Oh, and she’s hot.
My sister is hands down the best mom I’ve ever seen! She’s one of those moms we all aspire to be, though she would never see that. Her kids truly come before anything else in her life. She is currently in a situation which is not very supportive (though she’d rarely admit that either) and yet she makes sure her kids don’t realize anything is amiss. She is a full time nursing student, a full time employee, and a full time mom all at the same time and I have no idea how she does it! Between work and homework and the daily grind, she still finds time to throw an entire Day long birthday party for her son, to take her daughter to play, to still be there whenever. With student loans she probably wouldn’t have to work, but she insists that she wants to be able to do fun things with her kids and get them the things they want beyond necessities, so to work she goes. This woman barely eats and runs on 3-4 hours of sleep a night, never complains, and I doubt it would even occur to her to do things any other way. Truly a super mom, a super woman!
My sister is a rock star mom!
I’m a stay at home mom to my first baby, 7 month old Raegan. My husband and I have had to cut corners to make it work but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
I think we all do a great job, but I have a friend in the military who’s husband is deployed until December and she is doing it alone with two little ones.
My husband! He works a full time job, cooks most of our meals every night, runs our small hobby farm, runs the kids around after school because I’m working and is an awesome dad to our 5 children!
I think I have hit most of the same things this past weekend. Its happens and I have 3. Mom guilt is horrible and I am worse on myself then my kids are I think half to three quarters of what I feel bad about and apologize for the kids ever remember. I work a full time job and have to direct sell business’s plus my husband has started his own business. Life gets hectic and I just pray things will slow down soon and I live for our 1x a year family vacation. Keep up the awesome work, Your doing awesome!!
I am so bad at championing my own self, and I try to not ever burdened others with requests or attention or favors……I really stink at being my own advocate. But I’ll tell you that if I were to have a $250 gift card bestowed on me, I would buy my own Mother’s Day gifts……things I really want like a manicure, the Amope electric foot pedi thing (have you seen that? awesome!), some really good wine. I’m usually way too cheap to spend any real money on myself and I spend pretty much all of it on my daughter now. So I would treat myself to a few things that I probably deserve, but would never ask for.
My bestie has stage 4 cancer-started in her breast and has moved all over her body…even in her bones. She has two adorable little children, ages 6 and 2. And she is always there for them. Helping with homework, playing with them to the best of her ability, listening to and solving the many dramatic problems of a 6 year old. I’m sure there are times when she is in so much pain and is so exhausted that she just wants to give up, but she doesn’t. She keeps right on going. Those kiddos know they are loved so incredibly much. I hope to become half the mother she is. She is my inspiration.
My friend Michelle, who is raising triplets, job searching, and running a craft blog, plus all the mom stuff nobody mentions.
My sister who just had her first child (who is colicky). She is doing an amazing job taking care of her daughter while working (she is a nurse). All the while dealing with her own health issues (arthritis). She is amazballs!
My friend Donna is an ICU nurse and mother of twin toddlers and I think she’s doing an awesome job.
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
My wonderful friend who has three kids and is doing it all alone. Two out of three of her kids is on the Autism spectrum and she is always so positive!!!
Don’t you hate when people leave those sappy responses to s**t like this in hopes that that will ENSURE them winning the gift card. Yeah, mine is one of those, but to be fair, my mother was/IS KICK A*S, and it sucks around Mother’s Day, but it’s better now because I’m a mother. When my son is sick, and I am stroking his head while he’s in my lap, it’s HER hand. When I make the sign of the cross on his head and say my last prayer over him before I leave his room, it’s HER voice. When I am frustrated, crying, and afraid I’m screwing up EVERYTHING, it’s HER advice that pushes me onward. When she was diagnosed with Cancer, I can remember laying my head in her lap crying and her stroking my head and telling me that she would not leave me until I was ok. She kept her word. Everything I know about being a mother, I learned from her. I fully believe she held my son before I did, and I can see her in him constantly; but most important, I see her in me.
my mom is an amazing parent. she played the mom and dad role growing up and she did them well. she always made sure we had everything we needed and more. I don’t know how she did it, but she never made us feel like our family was any different. I now have a 7 month old daughter and I’m so thankful for everything my mom taught me, because now I get to teach my daughter.
My friend, Leah, just had a hysterectomy and is keeping on keeping on being an awesome mom to her two girls. All the moms I know are so inspiring just by being their strong brave selves in daily life!
My husband is such a good Daddy. He had two girls before I met him and seeing him be an awesome father was a big factor in falling in love with him. He is the kindest daddy to our daughter, and now we have another on the way! It’s fate that he would have 4 girls, because he knows how to raise them.
My husband spends every moment he can with our little girl and truly loves every but of it…. to the point I have to nag both of them when it’s bedtime!
I am doing a kickass job and I just realized it this morning!!!!! My daughter got student of the month and straight A’s on her report card and to tell u the truth she’s the best 9 year old u could ever dream of. My son turns 5 tomorrow and today his teacher just told me she thinks he’s a little OCD because he’s over cleanly I thank my self for that, and that’s the only complant she had about him!!!!! He’s awsome and luvs school and he’s only a preschooler!!! And my 8 month old baby is like 3 in one let me tell ya I’ve never in my life met a more hyper and more funny baby in my life he’s so happy!!! I work my b**t off and do it alone my husband works long and hard hours, so it’s only right to produce well mannered well beyhaved happy and smart children!!! Even if I haven’t looked in the mirror or taken a shower in days as long a*s they are kickass that’s all that matters!!!
Out of all the replies I’ve read, I like yours the best. I love that you know your doing a kickass job!! And I love how most of your comment is bragging up your kids instead of yourself:) Happy Birthday to your son:) Tell him there is nothing wrong with liking things clean, I have 16 and 20 year old boys who could take lessons from yours!! Good job and good luck, it sounds like you have a wonderful family.
My grandmother. she has taken care of so many of us in the family. When my mom needed rehab, she raised me and my brother. My aunt had a baby at 16, so she adopted my cousin. then I had my first daughter. Her father was abusive so my grandparents offered to take care of her until i could get on my feet. Then she was diagnosed with autism. My grandma loves her as if shes her own and wouldnt change a thing. shes 74 years old and is still happy to have a kid in the house. She has 4 kids of her own, 18 grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren. I see my daughter whenever i want and spend time with her, but i cant afford the medical bills. My grandmother happily takes it on and loves just having her because she loves being a mom.
I lost two grandmothers last year who were the best moms ever. They took everything in stride and just loved. It didn’t matter. My grandmother lived in (literally) Nazi Germany and didn’t bat an eye when her son had a s*x change and her grandson adopted a little black crack baby. She loved us all the same. She understood when you forgot to call, she was always surprised I’d buy her gifts, like she didn’t expect a thing, ever. She was just happy we visited.
My husband’s grandmother dropped out of school at 8 to help take care of the other kids when her mom died. She couldn’t have children and adopted my father-in-law. Her husband died 5 years later and she was alone since. But it didn’t hurt her spirit at all. She was a vibrant, affectionate and lively woman to the end, always dancing in the living room, trying to feed everyone, worried about the whole world.
They are my inspiration. If I can be half as generous and loving, I’m doing an amazing job. And I know they’ll be watching out for us.
My friend Allison. She does such an awesome job. Both her and her husband are always doing things with their girls. She does amazing crafts. She is always doing great activities with them. And the girls are super sweet
My babysitter has 4 kids she homeschools. She adopted one of them. I am a single mom and she is the 2nd parent to my child. If i ever win thw lottery she is getting half! She charges me so little for everything she does for me
My Mother in law who watches my daughter every day while my husband and I work!!
My super awesome older sister! She has three really great kids, one of which is a CHD warrior. I can’t begin to imagine the stress of three kids (I have two) and working full time but she constantly has to worry about my nephew and his limitations.
My sister is doing a fabulous job raising two girls under 3 all by herself while working full time. Her youngest has medical issues and has surgery number 3 tomorrow. She’s amazing. I have no idea how she does it. And she always looks gorgeous to boot!
Baby Sideburns…YOU are doing an awesome job as a parent! I could name a hundred other people I know that are awesome parents, but strangely enough, I can relate more to you (even though we’ve never met) than I can to most people I know. You keep it real. Your kids are clearly happy* in most of your pictures. There is the occasional meltdown or tantrum picture thrown in there to remind us that everyone goes through the tough parts of parenting. It’s inevitable. Then you post stuff like this and it makes me feel like I’m not alone, even when I feel like I’m failing miserably at this whole parenting thing. So this is a big thank you to you (and daddy Sideburns) for being kickass parents and showing us that parenting isn’t always easy, but no matter how many times you feel like you’re failing…your awesome kids do something to remind you that you’re doing it right!
My mom! She raised 3 girls and made the most of everything. She planned her employment so that she could work with the school system and move up when we did and would have all the same days off of school with us.
My brother! He fell 20 feet off a roof almost two years ago. He has very limited use of his arms( no more than 5-10 pounds on lifting). He has 2 kids, son is 4 1/2, daughter is 8 months old. Somehow he manages to care for them both while Mom is at work. He does so much for his kids, with a smile on his face, all while being in constant pain and with VERY limited arm use/motion. He is my hero!
My sister does an amazing job with her 4, soon to be 5 kids. She already has adopted one special needs from Ethiopia and is leaving for China soon to get another little boy with no hands/feet. She is the only sibling living out of state (wayy out of state in West Texas) with no relatives nearby and a husband frequently out with work.
Nothing more beautiful than reading about all these amazing people that are doing kick a*s jobs at raising children. There is still hope for humanity. I can’t possibly nominate myself at this point when there are so many others doing their best! We are all already winning.
My mom and dad have always been there for me no matter what. My mom is my best friend and when I’m having those days feeling I’m not doing as good a job with my kids, she reminds me all the things I am doing right.
My Sister is doing good because she can juggle a million things at once and still be good at it all as a parent. As a mom; she volunteers, works outside the home, goes to school, and is a trainer helping others to live more healthy. She takes on the world with full force, even when she is tired she finds the will power. She’s a great mom, who’s love pours over onto everyone’s life in a positive way, and I literally never leave her presence without a huge smile on my face & in my heart, as I see In her kids as well. Our own mom wasn’t really around when we where kids, so I think my moms absence gave her a mothering nature right from the start. My sister is truly awesome and deserves to be celebrated everyday for being a fantastic mom.
I know its probably “kosher” to say something nice about a friend or family member, but I’m going to talk about me. I am so proud of the job I’ve done lately. My husband of 10 years passed almost two years ago and left me with 3 children. Honestly, I had no clue what to do. I was deeply depressed, couldn’t work, lost my car, lost my apt and my stuff,…….it was rough. But I am coming out slowly but surely. My kids and I have gotten it together and we are well on our way to recovery. I look at where I was two years ago and i am just I am so proud of myself.
My husband does a great job. He took over the bath/bedtime routine, and gets up in the middle of the night if our son wakes up. Always tells me how much I’m needed to keep things running smoothly, but I’m pretty sure he handles the tough stuff more than me.
My nephew’s mom because my brother-in-law is basically a loser, but she keeps plowing along doing a great job raising their son on her own despite the repeated disappointments. She adores him and he is a great little boy, and she manages to mostly ignore my BIL’s bs most days!
My own mom who is the funniest, coolest, best mom ever. I’ve been lucky enough to recognize this pretty much all my life, but even more so now that I have my own kids. She is seriously the best (true) storyteller in the world and even though we have heard some of her stories more than once we always listen because she can make you laugh so hard and feel like you were there like none other. I tell her she should write a book! Oh, and the other day she just up and had her head shaved at the salon. She wants to go gray, but doesn’t want to watch the roots grow out slowly. My dad was pretty pissed at first, but he is used to her doing her own thing. When she called to tell me I said, “are you f-ing serious?!” Then she sent me and my sister her first ever selfie and I was shocked, but after a bit felt it wasn’t sooo bad. She asked which of her brothers she looked more like now lmao. This is what makes her the best – she’s real, she’s honest, and she does whatever she d**n well pleases!!
My friend Bernie, who held her compusure, while her 7 year old daughter had an hour long total melt down at the end of her first Communion party. My friend never raised her voice, never seemed upset, just let it happen and very calmly dealt with it as it came. After 10 minutes I would have lost my cool. I need to take lessons from Bernie!!
My sister is a great Mom to her daughter and son. She is going through a heartbreaking ordeal with my nephew who is only 2 has a brain tumor. He is getting chemo, and I am amazed at all her patience and love for him, and how she manages to keep up with her daughter and her schooling during this difficult time. She is an inspiration to me!
I’m a grandma times 6. As I think back over the years I (of course) think of all the mistakes. Think of how I should have made changes earlier, fixed things better…a million what if’s. Then I think about my daughter and see how she has raised her own kids..they are so smart and funny and old souls that are mature for their ages and “get” life. She is doing an amazing job. I look at my sons and the amazing father’s they have grown to be and I think in spite of myself and all my mistakes…I must have done something right! They are my best things and I am so proud to be called their mom. I love you Rachael, Brian and Tommy…I love you aaallllll that stars!
My husband is a great mom – probably better than me!
my amazing niece. Her daughter will be two and she puts nothing before her daughter. my niece is only 22 years old. she works and goes to nursing school but is the best mom I know. She loves her daughter with all her heart and when not at school or work spends every moment she can with her daughter. She amazes me the way she juggles everything. On top of it she is a single mom.
I feel this way too.. and then my son says “fish, ball, mama” and it doesn’t matter any more because I know that he is the most important piece of my world!! My mom did her best and that’s all I can do too!
I want to toot my own horn, darn it! I am the typical stay at home mom who has dinner ready at 4:30pm. My house is semi-clean, I mow, I do the check book, and deal with the “other” crap of life. My child is an A/B student and keeps her nose clean. I feel like I have had a purpose of keeping our stars aligned in our home. So, pat on my own back today! Chin up, tits out!
My example is my amazing best friend/sister from another mister Kellie, who is a stay at home mom raising 3 beautiful kids! Her oldest boy is 5, then her two girls are 3 years old and 10 months old. She is such an amazing example to me of how to be a great mom. I just had my first baby this past November and she has been there for me every step of the way. I love her so much.
She is so strong. She lost her mom about 6 months before she had her youngest baby and this last year has been extremely hard on her. I know every day is a crazy challenge for her but she keeps on getting out of bed and kicking a*s every single day. Seriously, her strength amazes me.
My mother, who has spent 32 years loving four kids while driving us crazy at the same time! I should’ve listened to her years ago-she was always right. Now, with my youngest sibling joining the Coast Guard, she is going to start traveling and her first stop is to do an extended visit with my brother and his kids who have lived the farthest away for the past few years. She is beyond excited and we are excited for her. She’s been a fantastic help with my kids and I hope she has a great time with the other grandkids.
My son is the fun dad, and the disciplinarian, and the snuggle bunny. Awesome.
My sister. She’s an awesome mother and teacher. She does an amazing job with her sons, is super patient with them, let’s them do cool art and baking projects that get the house messy, and barely even yells. No idea how she does it, but I love her for it!
If my kids smile and laugh at least once a day because of something I said or did, I consider it a good day. Reading the comments above…wow! These are the amazing parents for sure. Everyone with their own stories, good and bad, it is truly inspiring.
My awesome sister in law and bestie heather does an amazing job at being a mother. She is raising 2 toddlers and is killing it!
My sister-in-law Kristin is doing an amazing job with her three kids under three! She balances a career as a veterinarian along with everything she does to take care of a toddler and twin babies – plus her house is always immaculate! she’s incredible 🙂
My mom in law sometimes thinks she’s not doing a good job because she can’t help her kids with x situation but I think she’s always doing more than enough for everyone. She’s amazing!
My sister. She is a teacher and an amazing mother to a 4 year old and 1 year old twins. I don’t know how she does it. She commutes over an hour each way to work. She makes time for not only her family but for all of her students.
My mother is an amazing representation of what a mother should be! She is 72 years old and raising her youngest grandchildren (7 & 4) so they do not end up in foster care because of my sibling’s choices. This is the second time in her life when she has stepped up to raise her grandchildren. My oldest niece and nephew have excelled in college, are respectful and hard working young adults all because of the upbringing she provided for them. My mother is an astonishing woman and she deserves all the accolades in the world.
I see so many of my SAHM friends spending oodles of time making fun memories with their children. They dont even have to take them anywhere, just the time spent under a sprinkler in the summer or having lunch picnics make me jealous…. LIE! I would rather go to work where its peace and quiet and no cartoons. Props to those that can do it.
My mom. Until I became a mom, I didn’t realize how hard this job truly is. She has always been there for me and my brothers and even is today for my boys. She is such a wonderful, loving caring mom. I hope to grow up to be like her one day!
All the moms who get up every day and do the very best they can for their kids, no matter what that looks like. And not because they have to or because it’s their “jobs,” but because they love their children…pure and simple. Being a mom is not easy, but for most, it the most fulfilling part of life. And there is no other love in the world like it, hands down.
My best friend Jessica- who is raising her daughter Ana as a single mom. Ana has a rare seizure disorder and has ” died” twice in Jess’s arms. Ana is a beautiful 4 year old who is beautiful inside and out! Yet this awesome woman has 1- left an abusive relationship with the dad 2- gotten straight A grades in college and Deans list all semesters in her Psychology degree ( we are both in the same degree program!) 3- had to move in w her mom and dad to escape the abuse 4- works over full time and is an asset to her boss! 5- always encourages me and everyone else! 6- is a role model to her former cheer team ( she used to coach my daughter) 7- and is never pretentious and she’s down to earth and funny as they get!! 8- is also active in church and actually invited me to the church I now am a member of. 9- she’s always thinking of others before herself. 10- she also is the best Mom of the best lil girl I know! And I know bc I have 5 kids of my own and have been through a lot of the same things!
I simply love my bestie because she’s a young mom who shows IT CAN BE DONE AND DONE WELL!
I would say my mother. Growing up I was never a great daughter, I resented my mother for working too much and hardly ever being home. As I became an adult I had to move in with her because my marriage didnt work out. I became pregnant and had absolutely nothing for my little bundle. I didn’t even work. She never turned her back. She took me to the hospital, cut my baby’s cord. I never understood her until that day. Now im married again added 2 more babies and my mother has become my best friend. Couldn’t have done it without her unconditional love.
My husband is the best. He works nights and takes care of our son while I’m working during the day (on 2-3 hours of sleep)!!
He takes our son to the park and on errands each day then cleans while he naps. Then, he runs out the door to work once I return from my job,
Yes, I do a lot, too – but I get a full night’s sleep – my husband blows my mind!
My awesome mom is AMAZING, and even after raising us, is now helping raise my niece and nephews. Just the kind of person she is….willing to help anyone she can, even if it means she’ll go without. Truly selfless!
My BFF Sue. Sure, she’s insane for getting pregnant again exactly 3 WEEKS after having twin boys, but she handles having 3 tiny ones with such grace. She holds it all together while her husband busts his b**t as a cop. She amazes me on a daily basis and is one incredible mommy.
My daughter in law is a fantastic, devoted, loving mother. She has three boys under the age of four years. It’s amazing how organized she is!
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My friend from college is doing good with her daughter. She works a difficult schedule, but still spends quality time with her daughter and teaches her good values.
My daughter h been worried about being a good mom because she had to go back to work but she is awesome. She is loving, organized, nurturing and protective but she amazes me most wih how much patience she has. BTW, I had to giggle at the tooth brushing. Been there!
I’d have to say my mom hands down. I know I’m 44 and have adult kids of my own now, but let me tell you , I don’t think I’ll ever be as strong as her. Her name is Barbara, my dad , (who has been in the hospital for 34 days today,) has been through so much health wise and through it all my mom has managed to keep a smile on her face, a hug for us girls , and is able to hold it together when we were all sure that we couldn’t. She is his nurse, our confidant, and a blessing to all who come in contact with her. I pray that one day I am exactly like her. I know everyone thinks their mom is the greatest, but I have the pleasure of KNOWING that my mom is. Love you mom!!
Love,
Kathy
Being a mom of 3 step mom of four and balancing a full time job working with special needs ..I feel blessed..hugs,kisses and smiles…along with the very important thoughts they share each day…blessed that’s what I am!!!