My partner and I recently enjoyed a dinner with some new acquaintances. We had met a few months ago and had been attempting to arrange a double date, but coordinating schedules with small children proved challenging. Finally, we managed to hire babysitters and relish a night out without the kids. The food was delicious, and the companionship was delightful. We shared laughs over toddler mischief, disorganized homes, and eccentric in-laws. It felt rejuvenating to bond with friends in such an effortless manner—kids really do create a universal connection.
As our conversation flowed, we touched on our favorite television series. My partner, casually, mentioned that I was a songwriter who had once auditioned for The Voice.
“Wow!” our new friends exclaimed, clearly surprised. “Jenna, I had no idea you played guitar. That’s amazing!”
I was caught off guard for a moment. Anyone who knows me is aware of my lifelong passion for music. Singing and playing guitar have always been pivotal parts of my identity, and songwriting filled a significant portion of my life—before I embraced motherhood, at least. Since then, I’ve realized that space for my own interests has been limited.
For the past two years, I’ve dedicated my time as a stay-at-home mom focused on creating an ideal, joyful environment for my son, whom we affectionately call “Peanut.” Each hour was meticulously planned with his developmental needs in mind—countless hours spent at playgrounds, splashing in water parks, piecing together puzzles, and reading board books. The world he inhabits has been carefully curated by me, and crafting such a world requires immense effort. My schedule is packed, my home is bustling, and my heart is brimming with love. Yet, amidst all this, I can’t help but wonder: Am I more than just a mother?
When Peanut entered this world, he became the lucky son of a creative woman. I was an artist, a musician, a lover of literature and nature. I was Jenna—a friend, a jogger, a passionate cook, and an avid cheese dip enthusiast.
Fast forward two years, and I found myself introducing myself at a recent Sunday gathering: “Hi, I’m Jenna. This is my partner, Mike. We have a delightful 2-year-old son named ‘Peanut,’ and umm, that’s about it?”
In my quest to build a bright world for Peanut, I realized I overlooked a crucial truth: his world doesn’t need to be constructed; it needs to be explored and cherished. My role is to unveil the beauty that already exists around us—a beauty I’ve unintentionally neglected since his arrival.
Yesterday, while rummaging through some old items, I stumbled upon a dusty guitar case. I felt a surge of nostalgia and a flutter of excitement in my stomach. It hadn’t been that long since I last played—had it? The case creaked as I opened it, and I embraced my old friend. The familiar shape fit comfortably against me as I clumsily plucked the strings. After an hour of strumming and humming, I rediscovered an old hymn and let the music carry me away. As I returned the guitar to its case, I smiled, feeling a sense of fulfillment in my soul.
One day, when I am no longer here, I envision a conversation with my child that begins like this: “So, Peanut, tell me about your mom.”
In that moment, I hope he reflects on the love he felt and remembers his childhood as nurturing and enriching. I wonder if he will recall my musical passion, the love I held for his father, and my playful struggle with my love for cheese dip over my running routine. I hope he sees me as someone who savored life and instilled that appreciation in him as well.
Yes, I adore motherhood, but I am more than just a mother.
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In summary, while motherhood is a cherished role, it is essential to remember that we are multifaceted individuals with passions beyond parenting. Embracing these aspects enriches our lives and those of our children.
Keyphrase: More Than a Mother
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