Homage to Momage

I've been thinking about motherhood lately. This could be because of the recent arrival of my newest niece. Or maybe a little bit of (gasp!) biological clock-ticking. But what I've realized is that the job seems too huge for one person to handle. I can barely take care of myself and my two cats—the thought of another little person demanding my time, resources and affection is a bit terrifying at the moment.

This brings me to my point: I want to commend all of the other little person caregivers I know. Because, really, I don't know how you do it. You know who you are, so I won't bother listing your names. But I'd like to lump you in into a few categories and pat you on the back for having what I think is the hardest—and most important—job in the world.

To the Working Moms: All you expert jugglers who can keep your sanity even though you're being called on all day by your employers and then have to go home to husbands who don't cook—you rule. I'm so exhausted at the end of every day, I cannot imagine having to bathe, feed, entertain, cuddle, etc. a baby or toddler after work. And the stories I hear about your improvisations are astonishing. (Kari—I'm talking about you here and the quick-thinking tights-turned-underpants).

To the Stay-at-Home Moms: I actually think your job is even harder than the working moms because you don't get a break. You don't get a lunch hour where you can go run errands sans-child. You don't get to go to the bathroom alone. Or spend 20 minutes leisurely checking your email. You are an all-day, all-night laborer who probably manages to also attend playgroups, gymboree and art classes amidst the normal chaos of the waking hours. Incredible.

To the Moms-to-Be: When I am pregnant, I think I will want to lay on the couch and eat burritos 24/7. The fact that you all can go on with your lives, despite morning sickness, fat ankles and constant exhaustion is unbelievable. And if you're pregnant with your second or third child, you deserve a Congressional medal of honor.

To My Own Mom: Even though your children are all capable adults, you still find ways to take care of us. You could have so easily sent us on our way and retired your hardworking Mom suit, but you choose to keep doing things for us. You get the Lifetime Achievement Award.

So that's it. Cheers to you, all you wonderful, dedicated women! I hope you will all help me when my time comes. I know I'll have a lot to learn from each of you!