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When You’re a Mom Without a Driver’s License
Over a steaming cup of coffee, my friend Lisa and I traded our tales of parenting struggles, particularly the infamous “my kids don’t nap anymore” saga. She shared how she had to buckle her son into his car seat and cruise around until he finally dozed off, granting her a fleeting moment of peace. I smiled and nodded along, though in my world, that luxury simply doesn’t exist.
You see, I’m a mom who can’t drive. Thanks to my not-so-stellar eyesight, getting a driver’s license has always been off the table for me. Growing up, this was never a major issue. I relied on friends for rides, walked where I needed to go, and navigated my small California town with a semblance of independence. Then I made my way to Portland, Oregon for college, where the public transport system is practically a dream. I thought I had it all figured out—until I had kids.
Suddenly, not being able to drive became a real headache. If one of us has a doctor’s appointment and it’s pouring down rain (which is pretty standard in the Pacific Northwest), I have to bundle my kids in jackets, rain boots, and umbrellas, along with snacks because we’re not just strolling five feet to a car. No, we’re trekking nearly a mile to my OB-GYN.
And when we run low on essentials like milk or toilet paper? Out we go into the elements, regardless of the weather. While other kids might jump for joy at the prospect of a fun family walk, mine don’t have a choice, and that tugs at my mom heartstrings. Sure, it’s silly to feel guilty since it’s beyond my control, but I’m a mom who genuinely wants the best for her little ones. Sometimes, a walk in blustery weather just doesn’t fit that bill.
While I could wallow in self-pity (and I do from time to time), I strive to focus on the silver linings. My children are learning vital safety rules like looking both ways before crossing the street and waiting for signals at intersections. They’re getting an early education in public transit, which will serve them well as they grow. Plus, they meet a mix of people from various backgrounds as we navigate our busy city life. They’re discovering that just because you can’t do what most people can, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck in a dull life; it just means you find your own way to shine.
There are days when I wish I could just load my kids into a car, crank up the music, and take a leisurely drive. I long for the ability to circle the block a few times until they drift off to sleep, just like Lisa does. But that’s not my reality. This is our life, and thankfully, it’s all they’ve ever known. They will learn to be self-sufficient, just as I did, and I take pride in imparting that lesson.
If you’re curious about alternative methods of family planning, you might find our blog post on artificial insemination helpful. And if you’re interested in home insemination kits, you can check out the Cryobaby Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit Combo for a reliable option.
In the grand scheme of things, it’s all about navigating life’s challenges with a smile—even if it means getting a little wet in the process.