There’s a beloved bumper sticker you might spot around Texas that says, “I didn’t grow up in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could!” That perfectly sums up my feelings about the Lone Star state. I married a tall Texan, and my kids were born here, making me a proud Texas mom! Do you identify with this? Here are ten signs that you’re truly a Texas mom:
1. Your little ones had cowboy boots before they could even take their first steps.
At any Texas baby shower, you can expect to find adorable gifts like tiny boots, cowboy hats, and “Made in Texas” onesies. It’s the standard!
2. Willie Nelson is part of your family playlist.
Forget nursery rhymes; your toddler is belting out “On The Road Again” while falling asleep to the soothing sounds of Lyle Lovett. During festivals like SXSW, you’ve likely carried your baby in a sling to catch their favorite artists.
3. Politeness is paramount.
You’ve instilled in your children the importance of addressing adults as “ma’am” and “sir.” If it’s a family friend or a playdate, “Miss” or “Mister” followed by their first name works too. And yes, please and thank you are non-negotiable.
4. You can distinguish between a “cookout” and a “barbecue.”
In Texas, grilling chicken and burgers is a cookout, while real barbecue involves slow-cooked meats on a pit. Don’t confuse the two—Texans take their barbecue seriously!
5. Lunches are a Texas affair.
School lunches here are unique, featuring favorites like enchiladas, Frito pie, and chili (without beans, of course!). When packing lunch, you might send your kid off with a brisket sandwich or chicken fried steak wrapped in a tortilla, plus a kolache for dessert. Not familiar with kolaches? Look it up and prepare to drool!
6. You wear the shape of Texas with pride.
The Lone Star state’s outline appears everywhere—from clothing to jewelry to cookie cutters. Do you have Texas-themed items in your home? (Guilty: I don’t have a Texas tattoo, but I do own a Texas-shaped casserole dish.)
7. September means State Fair time.
When the State Fair of Texas opens, it’s a big deal. Kids get a day off, and you know it’s tradition to check out Big Tex and indulge in funnel cakes and deep-fried Oreos.
8. A chill in the air calls for winter wear.
Have you ever stepped outside at a brisk 58 degrees and bundled your child in layers? Did you panic at the sight of a single snowflake? Yep, that’s classic Texas mom behavior.
9. Homecoming mums are a sight to behold.
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including homecoming corsages. If your daughter’s mum is nearly as large as she is, you’re embracing the Texas spirit!
10. Blue Bell ice cream is a staple.
You were eagerly awaiting the return of your favorite ice cream from the Brenham creamery and were first in line with a spoon when it finally hit the shelves. Amen to that!
Being a Texas mom isn’t just about geography; it’s a mindset and a heartset. Texas moms embody a bold, no-nonsense approach to parenting. Don’t mess with us, and definitely don’t mess with Texas!
If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, be sure to check out this excellent resource on pregnancy. Also, for those looking for info on fertility options, visit this authority on artificial insemination kits. For even more insights, you can read about this topic on our advertiser disclosure page.
In summary, being a Texas mom is a unique blend of culture, tradition, and heart. From instilling manners to celebrating the State Fair, these experiences shape your parenting journey in the Lone Star State.