Being a mom is truly a joy! I can wholeheartedly say it’s the most rewarding job in the universe. I just hope my kids can feel the love I pour into it. I had an excellent role model in my own mother, who made motherhood look both effortless and enjoyable. She had it a bit easier, though, raising kids during a time when worries about GMOs, UV rays, or seat belts didn’t cloud the parenting experience. It must have been a fantastic era for parents, and I know it was a blast to be a child. Here are 12 reasons why my mom, along with other ’70s moms, was absolutely rad:
- She inspired us to be Free to Be…You and Me. It was all about expressing emotions, not judging appearances, and understanding that moms are people too. Important lessons to learn!
- She was a smoker. While we know now that it’s not healthy, back then it seemed glamorous. Plus, our moms’ smoking habits led to some creative ashtray projects in art class.
- She bought us candy cigarettes. Because what better way to emulate her than to pretend to “smoke”?
- She quit smoking. Major props to her! I thought giving up Diet Coke was tough.
- She rocked turquoise rings that jingled against the plastic steering wheel of her station wagon while belting out “I Am Woman” by Helen Reddy on her 8-track player.
- She played bridge. In the afternoons, while enjoying a smoke and sipping on strawberry daiquiris.
- She embroidered denim shirts for everyone, including our cousins, the babysitter, and her bridge club. I still have a masterpiece she created featuring a butterfly, dragonfly, and even a partridge. Envy me!
- She taught us The Hustle. I remember busting out those moves at Vacation Bible school, right after enjoying Kool-Aid and Little Debbies.
- She took us to see Grease. Though she later panicked upon realizing it was about teenage relationships, we remained blissfully unaware after listening to the soundtrack countless times.
- She could truly bring home the bacon and fry it up in the pan!
- She explored various hobbies like belly dancing, tole painting, calligraphy, and even Parent Effectiveness Training. Sure, we may have been babysat by an elderly lady who served us butter and sugar sandwiches, but we made it through.
- She read Erma Bombeck, whose humorous insights still resonate today, just as they did decades ago.
Of course, my mom continued to be fabulous in the ’80s, sporting her Jane Fonda workout tape and those iconic shoulder pads. I often wonder what my kids will remember about me—maybe it’s the way I live in yoga pants or my infamous spinach brownies. Perhaps I should pick up embroidery too!
Disclaimer: My mom actually quit smoking shortly after I was born, but my grandparents still smoked, which is why I made ashtrays for them. Also, her bridge club met in the evenings, while afternoons were reserved for pool days where we soaked up sun without sunscreen.
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Summary: The ’70s were a unique era for moms, filled with carefree parenting and memorable experiences. From encouraging self-expression to exploring creative hobbies, these mothers set a fun example. As we reflect on their experiences, we also consider our own parenting journeys and what legacies we will leave for our children.