A Word on Feminism (Or Not)

Can you feel the world's axis tilting a bit?

Not too much........but it does seem that women's interests are taking a front row to others.

Now, please don't get me wrong.  I do not like the word "feminist" or the idea of simply having your gender give you any sort of power.  But, for generations, women have watched and complied with a society that might as well have been created on the stage of Mad Men.

No, we're not forced to wear aprons or serve our husbands cocktails on silver trays as they enter the door after a hard day's work.  But, movies and books have primarily been slanted in their favor when it comes to content that might be considered "risky".

And, although I've never been to a male strip club nor have any interest in going, I did see Magic Mike.

It was total crap.

But, who cares? 

It was fun and it felt great to be a woman that day.  The theater was arm to arm filled with girls cat calling and gasping at all the right parts.  It was liberating in a way......to hear women cut loose a bit and have some fun.

Blake suggested I would be causing a total fuss if men everywhere, including him, were anticipating a movie about female strippers.  Umh.......it's happened, babe.  It was called Showgirls.  And, Striptease.  And, just about 30% of the internet's content.

It felt good to have it be our turn.

If you don't live under a rock, you might have also heard of this series, Fifty Shades of Grey.  Coined as "Mommy Porn", it pretty much lives up to the title.  Super steamy, not remotely good writing........but definitely a fun beach read.

High society book clubs across the nation are reading this series.  That is hard for me to grasp, knowing the content and reflecting back on some pretty crazy parts.

Regardless, it made me smile.  And, I suggest you read it.  :)

And, finally, the princess equation.  Where does it fit in?  Are we feminists for hating it?

Years ago, I would have told you that I detested the whole idea.  Today, part of it still makes me squirm a bit.  But, Lainey sees the magic and loves every ounce of princessy goodness.

I've conceded to the dresses and occasional make up and getting her hair done at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.  The simple joy of seeing her light up is too much for me to deny.

So, where is the balance? 

In 2012, I'm a 37 year old mom of 3 trying to raise a family and keep my own identity in tact.  I work part time and throw myself into projects that cultivate that part of me that feels stifled without working full time. 

I am trying to raise 2 young boys to respect women.

I'm raising a daughter, strong willed and stubborn, and pray every day she keeps those frustrating qualities.

After 12 years of marriage, I still manage to catch my husband's eye every now and then. 

And, occasionally........I see a movie where Channing Tatum might as well not have a script.

Does that make me a bad person?  An anti-feminist? 

What are your thoughts?