I might not always manage to take a shower, and those stylish 4-inch heels tucked away in my closet may never see the light of day again, but I definitely carve out a moment each day for a swipe of lipstick.
Working from home as a freelance writer while juggling the needs of my two little ones—a lively 2½-year-old son and a sweet 10-month-old daughter—means that adult interaction can be scarce. Often, my husband is the only grown-up I engage with, and if it weren’t for my dog, I might not even step outside during the chilly winter months. Yet, I persist.
Lipstick, along with a sprinkle of makeup, enhances my appearance. When I look better, I feel better—it’s that simple. Plus, it adds a touch of allure for my husband, who, while he loves me just the way I am, appreciates a little effort (just as I expect him to keep his beard groomed).
Wearing lipstick also serves as a nostalgic reminder of life before kids. Though I now swap weekly salon visits and monthly pedicures for diaper changes and playdates, I can still treat myself to a quick application of color on my lips. Transitioning from summer’s coral lip balms to the rich berry shades of fall makes me feel connected to the world, even as my handbag trends become outdated and my wardrobe shifts.
As mothers, we often prioritize everyone else’s needs over our own. We dress our kids, prepare their meals, and pack their lunches before we even have a chance to enjoy our coffee. For family photos, we pick the one where the kids are smiling, even if our own faces are a bit sleepy. We let them have the last bite of dessert, even when we really want it ourselves.
Applying lipstick has become my personal ritual. The simple act of twisting the tube, applying the color, and ensuring it’s even takes mere seconds, yet it boosts my confidence and gives me the strength to tackle the day—be it cleaning up another water spill or changing yet another diaper.
Some might call it vanity, but I believe a little vanity is beneficial. I apply sunscreen daily to protect my skin from damage, wrinkles, and the effects of aging—after all, who wouldn’t want to hold back the years? I also focus on nutrition and try to squeeze in exercise, which, even if it’s just dancing with my kids, helps keep me healthy. Not only does this lower my risk for various diseases, but it also gives me a greater chance of fitting into my pre-pregnancy clothes sooner.
As for lipstick? It symbolizes who I was and who I aspire to be once these intense parenting years fade. It’s a little piece of sanity tucked inside a tube. If you’re interested in further exploring topics around pregnancy and home insemination, check out this insightful piece on intracervical insemination. For those looking to boost fertility, Make a Mom is an excellent resource. And for more information on infertility, take a look at the CDC’s statistics on infertility.
In summary, my daily lipstick application is more than just a beauty routine; it’s a small act of self-care that helps me feel grounded amidst the chaos of motherhood.