This week, a surprising email landed in my inbox with the subject line “Bake Sale.” Over the past five years of navigating elementary school life with my children, I’ve received countless notices about bake sales, plant sales, and various fundraisers. Yet, I’ve never taken the reins on any of them. My typical volunteering involves creative projects that I can manage from my desk, not coordinating with other moms for Rice Krispie treats.
However, this year marks a significant milestone as my eldest child enters her final year in elementary school. It’s a pivotal time for both of us, filled with homework, tests, and numerous activities, alongside spirit nights, a major fifth-grade trip, graduation, and a grand party—all requiring substantial fundraising.
The bake sale email, while mundane for many, stirred a mix of nostalgia and reflection about my own childhood experiences and my mother, who was never part of the bake sale brigade. I remember joining the cheerleading squad for our local pee-wee football league at around age 7. Donning our red skirts and white sweaters, we cheered with gusto. But as I reveled in the cupcakes, I realized my mom was often absent, preoccupied with work or errands. She was a strong feminist—an activist and medical professional—who believed in a system that often relied on women volunteering their time.
Telling her about my involvement with the PTA or bake sales, I sensed her skepticism. “Don’t you have better things to do?” I could almost hear her asking, knowing that I have a plethora of responsibilities demanding my attention.
Many parents grapple with similar dilemmas. Some juggle multiple jobs, while others send substitutes to school events. We all navigate our obligations in different ways, whether by volunteering, sending cash, or providing store-bought treats because we’re short on time—or ingredients. I ponder who those cheerful bake sale moms of my youth really were. Perhaps they too had their struggles hidden beneath the surface.
As I reflect on my role, I’ve come to appreciate being known as the Bake Sale Mom. I enjoy immersing myself in my kids’ school community, relishing the familiar scents of pencils and cafeteria snacks. This endeavor is a privilege. My flexible work schedule allows me to contribute in meaningful ways, and I find joy in raising funds that support our schools and community. It’s grassroots organizing, albeit on a smaller scale, yet it contributes to something greater.
So, is this who I am now? Yes, and I embrace it wholeheartedly. Plus, I genuinely love to bake!
For more insights on the journey of parenthood and effective home insemination, check out this article on pregnancy and explore resources about self-insemination at Make A Mom. If you’re interested in more on this topic, visit Funcle.
Summary
The article discusses the author’s personal reflections on becoming the Bake Sale Mom, contrasting her experiences with those of her own mother. As her child enters the final year of elementary school, she grapples with the nostalgia of her childhood while embracing her role in the school community. Ultimately, she acknowledges the privilege of her position and the joy of contributing to her children’s educational experiences.