Today The Forum newspaper announced its revamp of several sections, including the Valley R&R section, now named LIFE. The LIFE pages will contain the “Parenting Perspectives” column to which I and several other rotating columnists contribute every fifth week.
Though I’ve known for a while the remodel would be coming, how surprised I was this morning to find my “mug” (in color) at the top of the fold, one of several visuals to help launch the new changes. My husband saw it first and said, “Rox, you’ve gotta see today’s paper.” In the middle of trying to herald the kids out the door, I was stunned to find the freshly made-up, smiling version of myself in print. The newspaper “me” stood in stark contrast to my morning appearance, which included tired eyes and a not-so-cheery, frenzied-morning look. The paradox prompted a real-life smile.
Rarely does a day go by that we mothers don’t feel at tad bit haggard, maybe even hopelessly spent. And then something special comes along requiring the donning of a pretty dress: an evening benefit, Sunday morning church, a summertime wedding or some other public event. Those days and moments, we have a chance to show a more polished side of ourselves. And even though we’re likely to have marker or vomit or ketchup stains on our clothes by the end of such a gathering, the few hours (or moments) of freshness can be invigorating.
That’s what today’s paper did for me — it invigorated me in a strange sort of way. I glimpsed the tidy mom I’d love to be more often, then looked over to the mirror nearby, where the real Mommy Roxane appeared in a baseball cap with no makeup. Thankfully, I am okay with both of these versions of myself. While the more sparkly me is nice to see every once in a while, it’s not everyday reality, and I have to say I’m glad. I’d hate to have to live up to person who showed up above the fold this morning all the time.
Speaking of the column, you can now find it on the Forum’s areavoices.com website:
http://www.areavoices.com/peacegarden/
Thanks as always for stopping by!
Yay!! More fruits of your labor. I’m glad I got to see it. We were all celebrating our famous friend at Tuesday group and thought perhaps next week you could sign a copy! 🙂
Feeling humble and grateful for such sweet friends, but I really need to bring extra pens to get YOUR autographs. 🙂 You all have contributed as well to the community and your families in ways that deserve recognition.
I love what you said about stepping outside of the “mommy” self and stepping into a pretty dress. I am going to do that this weekend, and it always makes me feel a bit better. More polished and put together, perhaps, but I love both “me’s”! Thanks for the great post.
Marie
Marie,
Have a great time! You deserve it.
Roxane