Why I want to be a 1950's Housewife

I know this topic can be controversial.  Every time I read something about a woman expressing her interest in being a housewife, there is a debate over Women's Rights and equality.  I don't honestly think they two have anything to do with each other.  As a housewife, either in the 1950's or now, I don't equate that role as being any less equal to my husband.  I believe that women are equals to their counterparts, and I also believe in more traditional gender roles.  I think when it comes down to it, there are some things that women should do and somethings that men should do.  I also believe there are exceptions to every rule and this isn't a hard fast theory to live by.

That being said, ever since I was young I dreamed of being a wife and a mom. My mom joked with me during college that I should just get my "Mrs." degree. Those who know me, know about the "Amanda" degree that I did end up getting...and has subsequently proven worthless. I could never figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up because all I wanted was the life of a mom and wife.

I have always been infatuated with the 1940's and 1950's. A time when people lived simpler lives and respected one another.  A time when women still wore dresses every day (with their pearls). I could dress like this everyday!!

Another argument I often hear is that a woman's responsibility was to make her man happy.  My comment would be...and?  I think in general this is a good rule to live by. Not just for women, but for men too!  I think that a good marriage means thinking about the other person and trying to make them happy. That doesn't mean sacrificing  yourself in the meantime though.

And don't be confused. I realize how much hard work it would take. Hell, I realize how hard it is right now being a Work at Home mom. Taking care of a baby is full time work! Through in a house and a hubby and your plate is full!  I do all of that plus work full time at home.  I'm doing everything in my power to try and stay home to raise my kids. It was something I missed out on as a child and hope to give my kids the benefit of their Mom being home.

The bottom line of all of this is I really admire the women of the 40's and 50's. There was something about that era that really intrigues me.  Their morals and ethics were just on another level compared to today.  I don't see anything wrong with wanting to stay home and dedicate myself to my husband and children.  I want my kids to have some of what I had...

-Growing up playing outside, not vegging in front of video games.
-Taking road trips with the whole family
-Family vacations where the most important thing was spending time together
-Respecting their parents (and grandparents)
-Family dinners

There are some principles that I think 1950's housewives embodied that will really help me get organized and get on track:

-Don't think of daily housework as CHORES. Make it more enjoyable!
-Get up early and get dressed! Too often I'm in my PJ's all day!
-Set a weekly menu and cook dinner...too often we are eating on the run
-Keep up with Laundry so it doesn't become overwhelming
-Make the bed!

I love reading blogs about women who are embodying the lifestyle I've been talking about. I won't be taking it to the extreme (hair and makeup...although I'd love to!) but I will be striving to accomplish those goals!