Kids Remember Love, Not Perfection

When I was younger, I am sure my mother yelled or lost it from time to time though I can’t really remember that specifically.

Instead, I remember playing Super Nintendo together, sitting criss-cross applesauce on my bedroom floor.

I remember watching her walk out the door, feeling sad that she had to go to work.

I remember taking warm baths, filled with lots of bubbles. I still love a warm bath today.

I remember back scratches and “Now I lay me down to sleep” prayers.

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I remember playing hide-and-seek and blaring music to let out a little crazy.

I remember our trips to the library and the books we used to read together.

I remember going on adventures and vacations, which made it seem like we had all the money in the world. In reality, it was a sacrifice.

I remember cookouts, BBQs, and card nights with our extended family.

I remember going to my grandmother’s house to play while my mom sat rocking on a porch swing with my grandma. As a mother now, I can only imagine the deep conversations that took place and the assurances offered by her own mama.

I remember birthday parties and themed sheet cakes.

I remember mac and cheese and spaghetti dinners.

I remember love.

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My mother wasn’t perfect, but she was and is a good one. My point in all this is that we all should offer a heaping scoop of grace to ourselves and each other when we fail in the mom game (daily for me). It’s all so hard.

I know when this is all said and done and our babies begin having babies, they will remember the consistent fun and sacrificial love we offered to keep them little. Savor the moments, say I’m sorry, have loads of fun, offer a lot of grace, and let go of perfection. You’re doing a good job, mama!