Girls Night

One of the greatest joys in life is being a mother. With references to Mothers Day everywhere my mind has been contemplating motherhood- or more precisely my calling as a mother. Sometimes, regularly, I wonder what Heavenly Father was thinking when he entrusted five spirits to my care.... strong evidence that he has a healthy sense of humor.

When I was younger I had visions of what motherhood would be. I saw myself apron-clad, makeup-ed, patient- happily picking up shoes, reading stories, and shopping for groceries with my adorable well behaved children. At this point in my idyllic fantasy the other store patrons raved about the charms of my offspring while I glowed with pride. After all, my children could recite Shakespeare, were fluent in three languages, and loved nothing more than discussing deep gospel doctrine over dinner. Apparently, I was seriously uninformed or maybe unobservant. I lived in a home with a wonderful mom. People rarely flung compliments at her feet about us, and outside of a large vocabulary in English, none of us learned foreign languages until high school or on missions. I will admit I don't enjoy MacBeth. Being a mother might not be as romantic as I pictured, but I am happy in my role. I have amazing kids who don't care if I wear make-up.

I have been reading Jane Clayson Johnson's I am a Mother . She references women who describe themselves as "just a mother". That description has irritated me for a long time. A few years ago I began changing my answer in those entertaining questionnaires at the doctors office, etc., in regard to my occupation. I now write, "Domestic Goddess". Try it next time you fill out a form at your child's school. I have had loads of comments. Calling myself a domestic goddess in no way describes my abilities or accomplishments. It is more of a goal. Besides, anyone who chooses to live a life devoid of sleep, strung out on Ramen Noodles, and filled with the wiping of little bums needs an impressive title....a crown wouldn't be too shabby, either.

I had an epiphany a few days ago on this subject. I want my daughters to grow up with a healthy attitude about motherhood. Therefore, I need to start celebrating and enthusiastically proclaiming the divine honor of being a mother. So, this past Saturday we had our first annual Mothers Day-Girls Night Out. It was only for the mom(me) and those who may someday be mothers themselves.(#1 & #5).
It was brilliant! We had the best gooey chocolate desert- a must have for any serious female bonding ritual. It's was a good beginning. If I teach them well, down the road my girls will not say, "I am just a mother". They will state, "I am a Domestic Goddess sent to this place in time to raise the next generation in righteousness".