As my 5 year old was screaming at me because I brought her the wrong pajamas after a bath (Note: she’s supposed to get her own pajamas so I was helping her, but clearly that didn’t matter), I wanted to say “I gave you life! Put on the PJs!” But I knew that a mom’s gift of life wouldn’t resonate with her.
Afterward, I started thinking about how I give my children life. I GAVE THEM LIFE! And then I give them so much more:
- Endless hugs, kisses, support
- All of my patience
- As much time and attention as I can
- Food, warmth, clothes, etc. etc. necessities blah blah
- A santa claus, easter bunny, tooth fairy and all of the other holiday or birthday surprises
I basically am still giving them much of my life after giving them life! Do they realize this? Nope. Does it matter? Nope.
But to be fair, my kids do give to me in return. So many things, including:
- A body I no longer recognize with hair that keeps falling out (the post-partum surprises never end!)
- Germs & viruses
- Hemorrhoids (apparently the gift that lasts forever!)
- The knowledge that my body is capable of creating amazing human beings while also functioning on very little sleep, energy, and focus
- Humility
- Flowers from the field at school or the grocery store that I “get” to arrange myself
- Lots of sand, dirt, and questionable substances in my car or laundry room
- Honest feedback, such as “You look like you still have a baby in your belly” or “Eww, you smell”
- A buddy to talk to when I’m going to the bathroom or showering
- Appreciation for a few minutes to myself.
Of course among the best gifts my kids give me is their love, hugs and kisses. They always invite me to their dance parties and even sometimes let me pick the music. I get to see them grow into amazing human beings, and I love the incredible warmth in my heart when they ask me to read them a book or sing them a bedtime song– it is the best.
But that’s not as fun to list out 🙂 And sometimes, moms need a laugh 🙂
I wouldn’t change being a mom for anything in the world. I still love my kids with all of my heart despite the mom gifts 🙂
Leave a Reply