Chapter 1: The Realization of Transformation

"Why are there no dogs allowed beyond this point?" my six-year-old inquires, pointing at a sign.

We're taking a stroll at a family-friendly resort, accompanied by my son and my parents.

As I start to explain the sign's meaning, my mom interjects with a calm and patient response, echoing the exact words and gestures I would have chosen.

It dawns on me: I've become my mother.

As adults, we eventually come to understand whether our childhood was fulfilling or not. We grasp the subtleties we overlooked in our youth. The comparisons between our lives and those of our friends become clear, allowing us to evaluate whether we aspire to emulate our parents or strive to be entirely different.

Fortunately, I belong to the former group—blessed with parents who are worthy role models.

As a mother now, I find myself mirroring my mom the most.

At a fundamental level, we share the same profession—both of us are data analysts. Following a grueling job hunt after college that yielded no results, my mom helped me secure a junior position at her workplace.

Fourteen years later, I hold the same title she had upon her retirement, and I've even worked under the same supervisor.

Yet, it goes beyond mere career similarities.

It's about the values my mom instilled regarding work and family.

Though she never stated it outright, I grew up aware that she had turned down promotions to prioritize spending time with me.

I always felt cherished and significant to her.

Now, as a parent myself, I've unknowingly followed suit, declining several promotions to ensure I'm present for my son.

I wish for him to experience the same love and security I had, knowing he is valued without having to choose between him and my professional obligations.

It's my hope that he remembers his childhood with the same warmth and safety I associate with my own mother.

"I have a special surprise for you!" my mom bursts into our home, carrying a bag for my son.

He opens it to reveal a sticker book featuring world flags—perfectly aligned with his current fascination.

He looks at me with curiosity, "But Mommy already got me this!" He chuckles.

"Oh no," my mom admits.

"I got it a few days ago," I chime in.

"Me too," my mom agrees with a nod.

My son laughs again, "You two are so funny!"

It's deeper than just gifts; my mom always nurtured my passions.

When I developed an interest in rocks, she found every book, movie, and game related to them.

During my monkey phase, she indulged me with a plethora of monkey-themed items.

This validation made me feel valued and special, a sentiment I aim to replicate with my son, even when his interests differ from mine.

I've transformed into my mother, down to poring over the same Amazon reviews and selecting similar products, all in the hope of creating cherished memories for our children.

"Mommy, are you proud of me for riding the horse?" my son beams up at me, his smile radiant.

He had been initially terrified at the thought of mounting the animal, nearly brought to tears at the idea.

Yet, he faced his fear.

"Buddy, I am incredibly proud of you. But remember, I'd be proud even if you hadn't ridden. I'm always proud of you."

These words resonate in my mind as I repeat them to my son—echoes of what my mom said to me, words that shaped my upbringing and helped mold me into a better parent.

I have undoubtedly turned into my mother, but rather than feeling annoyed or repulsed, I am filled with honor, gratitude, and happiness.

Through her actions, she taught me how to be a remarkable woman and parent, balancing work and family with a smile.

She gifted me a childhood full of love and security, and if I can provide even a fraction of that for my son, I will consider my parenting a success.

Thanks for reading. If my story resonates with you, check out my children's books inspired by my wonderful, messy son.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Legacy of Motherhood

In this chapter, we explore the profound impact of maternal influence and how it shapes our parenting styles.

The first video, "I've Officially Become My Mother," delves into the humorous and heartfelt journey of recognizing the traits we inherit from our mothers.

The second video, "I Did Not Like My Mom Until I Found Out the Truth," offers insights into the complexities of maternal relationships and the revelations that come with adulthood.