Mom Jeans and Other Mistakes
Page 34
If you’ve read my books, you might have an idea of just how much I love all things pop culture. So I had to take this opportunity to thank the girl group that makes my heart go wild, Little Mix. Thank you for not only providing my writing soundtrack by dropping bops that never disappoint, but for being a shining example of friendship and empowerment that we can all look up to. In the words of my favorite sweatshirt by the one and only Jade Thirlwall, “We have to stan.”
Suzanne Park and Falon Ballard, thank you both for putting up with my endless messages begging you to be my virtual Los Angeles tour guides and for giving me countless recommendations and ideas for locations in this book. Also, thank you for not judging me too harshly for the ridiculous requests I made.
Lin. I will never, ever quit you. From belly buddies to critique partners. You are proof that mom groups are worth a chance and the only reason I have any faith in social media. Thank you for your patience and guidance and constant encouragement. I’m not sure I would’ve made it without you at my back . . . in more ways than one. And yes, I fully expect a kind message in your book, so don’t forget this.
Lindsay and Maxym, I am so thankful you allowed me into your duo. You are magical masterminds and I’m honored to be able to call you my friends. I’m so excited for all that we will create together . . . and also, retreats and tacos.
This book is about strong friendship and I am beyond lucky to have so many examples in my life. Brittany, Meghan, Jill, and Shay. I know I can always count on you to make me laugh and smile when I need it the most.
Taylor. I mean, what do I even say? You are literally the strongest person I know. An amazing friend, a fantastic sister and daughter, the best mom ever—there is nothing you can’t do. Your gentle encouragement has been a lifeline for me. You turned one of the worst weeks of my life into a time when I was able to smile more than cry. Watching you deal with everything you’ve been dealt with . . . a freaking TRUCK! . . . and still power through has been inspirational to say the very least. And even though you always say no, just know that the glitter bomb offer is ALWAYS on the table.
Abby, what even is there to say? You’ve stood by my side throughout it all. From Chili’s and movies to walking to 7-Eleven on hot summer days to obnoxious Abercrombie pants to fifth-floor Durwood, you’ve seen it all. Your friendship is the constant I know I can always depend on. Thank you for loving my kids and answering them every time they FaceTime you. You will never, ever be able to get rid of me. Love you forever.
DJ, Harlow, Dash, and Ellis. I wrote this book during a freaking pandemic and you gave me enough space and encouragement to do it. I love you to the moon and back and around again. You are my whole, entire reason for everything. I hope I make you as proud as you make me. I’m the luckiest mom in the world.
Derrick, thank you for going on this wild journey with me and holding down the fort when I inevitably spiraled as the deadline approached. I love you.
Mom. This is so weird. I miss the days when we called each other multiple times a day and met for lunch all the time. I miss the way your laugh was all-encompassing and your smile lit up the room. I miss the way you loved my kids. I miss the good times. I miss you being my best friend. I wish I could have carried some of the grief you got lost behind. I hope you’re with Grandma, Grandpa, Paul, and Dad. I hope you’re happy and I pray you know how extremely loved you were and still are.
READERS GUIDE
MOM JEANS AND OTHER MISTAKES
• • •
Alexa Martin
Questions for Discussion
• • •
Jude and Lauren moved in together for not only financial support but emotional support as well. Is moving in with a friend something you would ever consider doing? How do you think that would change your friendship?
Lauren is dealing with the aftermath of a failed relationship and learning how to co-parent. What do her actions around her ex say about her?
Jude makes her living as a social media influencer. Do you think this is a real job? If you were an influencer, what would you specialize in?
Despite what many people think, Jude and Lauren both take pride in being millennials. What generation are you? Do you feel like you fit the stereotypes associated with people your age?
Lauren calls Jude her soul mate. Do you believe in soul mates? Do you think they exist only in romantic relationships, or can they exist in friendships as well?
There are a few instances of racism throughout the book. Did these instances surprise you? Do you think Jude was a strong ally and handled it well? How have you handled racist behavior you or someone around you has been faced with?
Mom groups and playdates take place throughout the novel and cause both Jude and Lauren a lot of stress. With the rise of Pinterest and mommy influencers, do you think the pressure on moms has increased or decreased? How so?
Jude finds comfort in drinking. Did you think she had a problem? Did it surprise you? Do you think the normalization of alcohol in society makes it easier for people to use it as a crutch?
Motherhood is an important theme throughout the book. Which mother-daughter relationship did you relate to most? Why?
Jude and her mom have a very toxic relationship. In the end, Jude decides to distance herself from her mother, even though it’s not a decision society usually supports. Have you ever dealt with a toxic family member? Did you feel pressure one way or another on how to handle it?
Photo by Kristie Chadwick
Alexa Martin is a writer and stay-at-home mom. A Nashville transplant, she’s intent on instilling a deep love and respect for the great Dolly Parton in her four children and husband. The Playbook series was inspired by the eight years she spent as an NFL wife and her love of all things pop culture, sparkles, leggings, and wine. When she’s not repeating herself to her kids, you can find her catching up on whatever Real Housewives franchise is currently airing or filling up her Etsy cart with items she doesn’t need.
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