Tales of an Educated Debutante: Calling all mothers

Time out. Game over. Let's take a break. Can we stop the madness? You know, the raised eyebrows, shocked expressions, holier than thou discussion. All of us, every single frickin' one is trying.

Some moms cook elaborate meals and some teach their kids to make mac and cheese in the microwave. They're both awesome.

Working moms envy stay at home moms and stay at home moms envy working moms. Again, both are extraordinary.

Some of us homeschool, others have kids in public school and some go to private. Does it really matter?

Lots of kids go to camp and lots don't. Who cares?

There are houses where televisions don't exist and then there are those where kids have their own. Why must we chime in?

Breastfeed, formula, nursing or strictly pumping. Can we just say that what matters most is a happy mama and a fed baby?

There are families with one child or a half dozen. Have as few or many as you like, it's all right.

Some kids need antibiotics and some are healthy as horses. Parenting is about way more than who gets sick or not.

Some of us teach tiny people to swim like fish and others rely on floaties. I say, just have fun.

Athletes or moms with a bit of pudge, as long as we play, who cares?

Some are young and some are pushing 50, but we all struggle and laugh.

Some of us keep an impeccable house and others use blowers rather than vacuums.

A few of us have very little and there are those who have more than they could ever spend, though hugs and kisses don't cost a dime.

Do whatever you want as long as you love big. And remember: There's no second place when it comes to motherhood.