More Than Good Enough

Pin-worthy? Maybe not. But fun and cute, just the same.

A few months ago it seemed like there was a heavy focus on competition among moms.  The media loves a good conflict, and jumped at the chance to get moms talking/fighting about who works harder and various other things.

It worked, for a few weeks.

But then we all went back to our lives.

Because, at the end of the day, we have kids to raise, jobs to do, and laundry to clean.  There’s only so much time for debating.

But lately, I’ve noticed a new trend in the world of blogging.

There’s a negative vibe out there right now, but this time it’s self-imposed.

(Not that anyone is admitting to that last part.)

Twice in the last week I’ve read posts questioning whether or not Pinterest makes moms feel like “bad moms”.  Seriously?

I know these posts are written partly in jest but, still, the feeling must lurk beneath the surface to make it post-worthy.

Does it make me less of a mom if I’m not as crafty as some?

Do the amount of original crafts I create increase my mom-ish-ness?

Will my kids be smarter, better adjusted, or more prepared for school if I create more amazing and pin-worthy crafts?

Are moms really thinking about this?

If so, it makes me a little bit sad.

I must admit that I do enjoy Pinterest.  I love the crafts, the beautiful photography, and the birthday party ideas.

I love to scroll through my feed and see what others are up to.

But it’s never once occurred to me that I’m not doing enough as a mom because other people are doing more crafting, baking, or homeschooling projects.

The truth is, we are probably doing about the same amount.  I just don’t necessarily have the time, energy, or pretty pictures to pin.

I’m not sure when motherhood became a sport.  When did sides emerge, and where is the scoreboard anyway?  Is there a trophy to be won?

Do we need to measure ourselves against pretty pictures found on an online pin board?

I think not.

Parenting is hard.  And yes, it’s inevitable that we all stop and think about our choices at times.  That’s part of being a parent.

But comparing ourselves to others and wondering if we measure up based on what other parents choose to put out there?

That’s a dangerous game.  One that has the potential to cause some serious damage to our Mom-Esteem.

I say we all agree to enjoy the beautiful parenting moments we read about online or see on Pinterest, but then remind ourselves that we are doing an amazing job too.

Because your best is your best, and that’s more than good enough.

What do you say, moms, are you with me?