Magnificent Mama: Janice D.

To kick off the Magnificent Mama Interview Series, I am honored to feature my own mother Janice.  I know I’m biased but I think she’s the best in the world.  As an ICU nurse, she’s a real front-line hero and has a wealth of knowledge and great advice. Please take a moment to learn about, and learn from my Magnificent Mama: Janice D.

How many children do you have and what are their ages?

I have 2 daughters, ages 31 and 20.

What has motherhood taught you about your own mother?

She did so much more than I could ever do, with way less than I ever had. My mom had more children, worked the fields, canned all our food, and cooked all our meals. She chopped wood to heat our home, was widowed early, worked 2 jobs and we had no indoor plumbing!

What do you appreciate most about your children’s personalities?

I love that they are unique individuals with different approaches to life, but full of love and compassion. 

What is something you decided you’d never allow your children to do?

 I never had a “parenting plan.” There were a few absolute no’s: no drugs, no disrespect for yourself, your parents or others.

What is one of your passions that you have continued pursuing since your children were born?

I’ve continued gardening and I’m proud of the work we’ve put in our yard. 

What is one of your passions that you have given up since becoming a mom? Do you think you will ever pick it up again?

I gave up roller skating and don’t plan to start again anytime soon.

Where is the first place you want to go when the quarantine is over?

My kids are grown and live 3 hours away. I want to see them first, as soon it is safe to do so.

How has motherhood changed the way you feel about your body?

I have always had an overabundance of self esteem for a lifelong overweight woman with crooked teeth and who cuts her own hair. Appearance is not important to me. 

What is something you have learned that you wish more mothers knew?

 You cannot make up for lost time. Working long hours, I missed most of their milestones and was missing from most of their greatest achievements. They did not gain anything of value from the few extra dollars I made working 12 1/2 hour night shifts their whole lives. 

What do you miss most about your life before children?

The lack of fear. Fear for their health, their future, and the failing world that I have brought them into.

What is one thing your parents did for you that you make sure to do for your children?

I taught them life skills and the personal joy of making or fixing something. 

How do you like to relax and take care of yourself?

I love to sleep. It is the best part of my day. Invest in your relationships with family, friends, ibuprofen, muscle rub, sturdy shoes & a decent mattress. They are the only relief for all of life’s pains. 

Which quote or saying do you like to remember when life gets you down?

 Give it a try. It isn’t the answer “no” that you fear. You’ve heard that plenty of times. It is the answer “yes” that you are scared of. Give it another try.

Tell us about a book, blog, or website that means something to you.

I recommend The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. It is a short story about a woman with postpartum depression and how she was locked away from the world. I connected with character of a woman trying to but failing to meet society’s expectations. 

You’re a Magnificent Mama! Who helped you become the woman you are today?

My parents, spouse, and kids have all contributed.

Thank you Janice D. for sharing your honesty and wisdom with all of us. You truly are a Magnificent Mama, and Grandma to Buggy!

If you would like to leave any feedback, or participate in the Magnificent Mama Interview Series, feel free to comment below or contact me.

Love,