I’m that mom on social media who seems to rub people the wrong way. Call me an oversharer; it’s a label I’ve come to embrace, despite the backlash. I’m the mom who rallies behind fellow breastfeeding mothers when they seek advice. I’m the mom with two kids in cloth diapers because, let’s be honest, have you seen the price of diapers these days? I’m the mom who co-sleeps with my children, not out of trend, but necessity for a few hours of sleep. I’m the mom who grows her own organic vegetables to nourish my family, and yes, I’m the one walking through the grocery store with a baby strapped in an ergonomic carrier while the cart overflows with healthy snacks.
I’m the mom who proudly shared my experience of natural childbirth on Facebook, even though I’ve also experienced an epidural. I’m the one who shed most of the baby weight quickly and has no stretch marks to show for it. I’m the mom who posts workout photos with my toddlers, and openly expresses gratitude for my blessings, especially my family.
I understand that I’m often labeled the “hippie-crunchy” mom who gets accused of mom-shaming for simply living my life. It seems like my posts elicit eye-rolls and murmurs among other moms. I see the passive-aggressive comments, and I’m aware they’re directed my way. But here’s the thing: while you’re busy judging my choices, let’s remember that every mother is navigating her own challenges and making decisions that suit her family.
For instance, I’ve found breastfeeding to be a challenge with my daughter, despite my son being on formula until his first birthday. I support mothers who need help, because I know firsthand the struggles involved. Using cloth diapers? They save me a bundle, and I’ve got the bill from Target to prove it. Co-sleeping? It’s not my first choice, but when you’re back at work six weeks postpartum and your baby sleeps better next to you, you adapt.
Growing my own food is a personal preference rooted in convenience and cost-effectiveness. I can step into my backyard to grab fresh produce, which also means fewer chemicals on our plates. As for babywearing, I opted for an ergonomic carrier because it alleviates back pain while managing two little ones—it’s not about bonding, it’s about practicality.
When it comes to grocery shopping, my cart is filled with healthy options. This is a choice driven by a desire to prevent health issues that have plagued my family. Sure, we indulge sometimes—there are cookies in there too! As for childbirth, I’ve had both medicated and unmedicated experiences, and each was right for the moment I was in.
I don’t judge others for their bodies, regardless of stretch marks or weight loss. We all have our unique stories, and I’m proud of mine, even if it’s different from yours. My commitment to fitness stems from a history of health issues, including postpartum depression. It’s how I found my way back to enjoying life with my kids.
Sharing my gratitude online—yes, I do that too. I’ve learned to appreciate the small things, and I want others to see that joy. But I recognize that my posts can be misconstrued as humblebragging. If only we could understand one another’s reasons, perhaps we wouldn’t be so quick to criticize.
In the end, I’ll continue sharing my journey because it works for my family. If your approach differs, I respect that too; I’m sure you have your reasons. We’re all just mothers trying to do our best.
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Summary
This article highlights the experiences of a proud, oversharing mother facing criticism for her parenting choices. From breastfeeding to food choices and fitness, she addresses the judgments made by others while advocating for understanding among mothers. The piece emphasizes the importance of supporting one another in the parenting journey.