[Book Review] "Momaholic: Crazy Cofessions of a Helicopter Mom"

Of the books to review from BookSneeze.com, "Momaholic: Crazy Confessions of a Helicopter Mom" by Dena Higley appealed to me the most.  I was first attracted to the hilarious book cover!  Second, I figured it would be an entertaining read, not one I would ultimately connect with on so many different levels.  I had no idea I was about to experience a plethora of emotions while reading this book.  I laughed. I teared up.  I was on a roller coaster ride feeling sadness, joy, encouragement, sympathy, empowerment and most of all, love. 

In many ways, Dena Higley's story is vastly different from my own life-- she was the Headwriter for Days of Our Lives, she has four children from teenagers to early twenties, two of her children are adopted, one child has Autism, and the fact her children attended a private christian school are just a few things I cannot identify with.  Even though the events surrounding her story are not something I can empathize with or relate to, between all her highs and lows, I realized we did have one thing in common: we are both mothers, wanting the best for our children.

I am relived to say that she is not a perfect mom.  I am not.  All of us moms are not perfect moms.  The problem though was that for so long, Dena tried to be perfect.  She was "addicted to being needed."  She tried to be all things too all people.  Can you relate?  As a young mom with two littles, I can. 

After finding out her un-wed daughter was pregnant, she had a meltdown that ultimately freed her from her "helicopter parenting" ways.  I think it would be safe to say that every single mother (and father) has felt the pressures of being the perfect parent, but as Dena found out, it becomes an un-healthy desire when your self-worth is tied to your children. 
 
I wouldn't describe this book as a self-help book, although I did find myself tabbing over pages as "things to remember" and/or because I related to what she was saying in some way.  She even included a simple "Yes/No" questionaire at the end of her book for readers to take to find out if they too are a "Chopper Mom." If you are a "Chopper Mom,"  don't worry... you are not alone.

Every generation has had its unique parenting challenges.  She expresses her concern over today's "all about me and my feelings" society.  So where do you go for help, "like my mother and her mother before and her mother before her... On [her] knees."   As Dena writes, "if you think no one is appreciating you... be assured, I do.  I love, adore, and admire you.  Take better care of yourself. Give permission to say no.  Give yourself permission to breathe." 
 

I was provided with a free copy of this book to provide an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.