Doing it All

Have you seen the commercial with Kelly Ripa for Electrolux appliances?

Kelly praises her washer and steam dryer for allowing her to be "even more amazing." She comes home from work to beautiful and happy children, puts the laundry away by just throwing it in the air, feeds the dog, dresses the children as she walks by, does the laundry, makes cookies and her kids then catch the freshly-made chocolate chip cookies as she falls into the couch. This is all done in a matter of 30 seconds, with perfectly saloned hair, cute outfit and a great body. Did I mention her high heels and the "I Dream of Genie" music in the background? This commercial has her grocery shopping, preparing to entertain a houseful of guests, and then ending the night by looking for monsters under the bed.

The perfect woman.

Work full-time, have a beautiful and happy family, amazing house, great dinners, a nice social life, all while maintaining control and sanity. Perhaps this is true in Hollywood, but it's rarely true in the Real World.

Don't get sucked into how the media defines success. Being a hero in your house doesn't mean juggling two dozen activities while wearing Stilletos and a pearl necklace (no offense, Kelly Ripa and Mrs. Cleaver.) It doesn't mean you make a three-course meal every night and keep your house immaculate. It probably doesn't involve you finding a cure for cancer or stopping world hunger. I have a feeling that it has more to do with being the one to nurse a scraped knee, hug a crying child, or praising your child's newest Lego creation. The one to remember your birthday, ask about your day and put a note in your lunch.

It's not any ONE thing, but a million little things.

After all, you are a mother. You couldn't be any more amazing.