Hi, guys. Thank the good lord it’s already Thursday – I’m ready for some relaxation and downtime.

Work’s actually going pretty well, but it’s been a tiring week. Not very stressful, but tiring for some reason.

I guess with motherhood there will always be stress and exhaustion, which is why I’m sharing a few words of encouragement to all the “real” moms out there…

To The “Real” Moms…

To the mom whose toddler eats goldfish crackers off the kitchen floor…it’s ok, you’re doing him a favor by helping him to boost his immune system.

To the mom who looks forward to “night night” time just so you can sip a glass of wine in peace…it’s ok, that glass of wine is a way to relax and practice self-care—and self-care is never selfish.

To the mom who lets her child run around naked after bath time…it’s ok because fewer towels means less laundry. And that’s good for the environment.

To the mom who feels overwhelmed at every tear-filled, purple-faced meltdown…it’s ok, because that means your toddler is developing and learning the way he should.

To the mom whose child colors on the living room floor with non-washable crayons…it’s ok, he’s expressing his creativity and developing his fine motor skills. Plus, it’s just a floor, and with enough elbow grease and an abrasive pad, that crayon will eventually come out.

To the mom who feels guilty as she types away at the office instead of playing peek-a-boo or chasing her child around the backyard…it’s ok, you’re a strong woman, and you’re teaching your child the value of hard work.

(And, likewise, to the mom who stays at home, struggling to keep up the house, wash all the laundry, and find some semblance of independence while holding down the proverbial fort…it’s ok, your contributions and value are far greater than any amount of money.)

To the mom who feels threatened by super-moms with high-tech strollers, perfectly manicured nails, and weekly educational play-dates…it’s ok, you’re not inferior because your family is rich in hugs and kisses and love beyond measure.

To the mom who wasted money on countless parenting books and questions every little thing she does…it’s ok, you’re forging your own path, and there isn’t a single way to do this whole parenting thing.

Moms: you're doing OK! I promise. #TOL #momlife Share on X

So tell me…

• If you’re a mom, what is something “questionable” that you’ve learned is ok?
• Mom or not, how do you deal with the comparison trap?

[linking up for thinking out loud]