By Misa Rush

I would’ve liked to have lived in the 1950s. I love fifties music, and perhaps that’s why I can sing almost every verse of most Buddy Holly songs. And who doesn’t like a good poodle skirt? Whether it was or not, life seemed a little less complex back then. Don’t get me wrong. It’s not that I don’t like my iPhone or a frothy Starbucks cappuccino, I do. But thanks to women’s liberation, I now get to work two full time jobs and try to squeeze in writing and marketing my book in between.

Modern moms work. And I don’t just mean working moms. I’ve watched stay-at-home moms that may even work harder than I do. They endure without a break and without a paycheck to validate them at the end of the week. Luckily, I have a good balance. If you’re a mom, no matter which camp you fall into, finding balance is key.

Still, I want to be June Cleaver for my kids. I want them to embrace their childhood in a world that makes them grow up too fast. I want them to remember that mommy let them climb into bed with her when they had a bad dream, even if the parenting book said she shouldn’t. I want them to add colored sprinkles to their toast and eat breakfast with a smile on their face. It’s hard, and I’m exhausted, but I still find a way to bring cupcakes for their class. (It’s a good thing schools don’t allow homemade treats anymore.) But, that’s just what modern moms do, right? I look forward to sharing my stories with you, and I hope you’ll do the same.

Maeli and Grady’s Favorite Sprinkle Toast

Spread whipped cream cheese across top of toast.

Add favorite sprinkles and a touch of cinnamon, if desired.

Cut into squares.

Spread the love.

Misa Rush competed in gymnastics for eighteen years, including four on a full-ride scholarship to Eastern Michigan University. She graduated from Arizona State University with a master's degree in business administration. She currently resides in Gilbert, Arizona, with her husband and two children. Family Pieces is her first novel. For more information, connect with Misa on http://misarush.com, Facebook and Twitter.