Green Milk on St. Patrick’s Day, April Fool’s Meatloaf Cupcakes, and planning Andy’s Half Birthday Party. I have recently made a decision to embrace full-time motherhood as a creative profession, instead of a time in life that I’m just trying to survive.
I recently took a trip to the newly renovated Smithsonian American History Museum and was inspired by a little plaque on the wall about Motherhood after the Industrial Revolution. It said,
“…Middle and upper class women increasingly regarded motherhood as a creative outlet, for self expression and self-fulfillment. They strove not only to nurture, but to mold their children, taking pride in their graces and accomplishments.”
I wondered when did we loose that feeling? Fast forward 100 years…will there be another plaque about the Age of Technology that said women saw Motherhood as a chore? I hope not.
I have a dream that Stay-at-Home Mothers stop being embarrassed by not having an answer to the cocktail party question, “And what do you do for a living?” Instead of muttering quietly, “Oh, I’m just a mom.” I hope we give ourselves a real job title; Professional Mother.
That’s why I put forth so much effort to make every day as a learning opportunity with a craft, a song, an adventure to someplace new. Every week I try to have a new experience as a family. From “Field Trip Day” to Planting a Pizza Garden. I approach Motherhood as my creative profession. I have a daughter and a son to raise. I am taking this job seriously, and I’m having so much fun in the process.
I'm a "Professional Mom" of 3 children, and a Morning Show Co-Host at WGTS 91.9. in Washington D.C.
Apr 22, 2009 @ 05:47:23
Welcome back to the Blogging World, Amanda! We’ve missed you!
Apr 26, 2009 @ 21:25:11
Glad you’re back! As a “proffesional mother” myself I would love to hear more ideas of things you do with your kids. My girls and I are always looking for something new to try!
Apr 27, 2009 @ 08:09:26
I’m a single working mom of twin boys. I would give my right arm (and a few other parts) to be a professional mother.
Yours is the best job in the world and your children will never forget it.
May 07, 2009 @ 13:35:52
…and you inspire, me! so glad that you are blogging again!
Jul 10, 2009 @ 06:22:52
You reminded me of a spontaneous tea party with the good china while I was supposed to be packing the kitchen just because Maddie thought the tea pot was pretty. Next thing you know, Cal and Hunter showed us that tea parties are for boys too!
Stormie Martin said in her book “The Praying Wife,” “The husband is the head of the home with respect owed and responsibilities due. But the wife is the heart. Regardless of the division of labor and provision, it is her role to ensure the home is clean, comfortable and nurturing. A place of love where all will grow.”
Tim and I have said for many years the greatest mission field we will ever serve is at our supper table.
So cherish every precious minute and know anyone putting you down for staying home is probably like me, just jealous.
Sep 14, 2009 @ 14:16:31
I so want to thank you for posting this, it’s so fulling when there are other moms having the same heart desires as one. God bless you!!
Nov 01, 2011 @ 04:26:56
A friend pointed me to this post, because I am wrestling with my awkward cocktail party response. Your suggestion of Professional Mother is deeply inspiring . Strong, active and clear. Thank you so much.