Preparing for Motherhood

Just to start this out simply, I wish someone had sat down with me to really help me understand the dynamic of becoming a parent. Now for anyone that is curious, have a baby on the way, or thinking about starting a family, I hope this can offer you some insight into what you might go through.

I do want to say that everyone handles this part differently. No one can truly prepare you.

Different women, different mind, different body.

So this is based off my experience and the experiences that other women have shared with me.

There is no way you can completely be ready for this. I always knew that i wanted children and to raise my own family. I had an idea of what it would be like because my parents had 2 more girls when i turned 18. I got to help with the late night feeds, changing diapers, bath time and handling of the babies. I thought it would prepare me for it.

But- it was a completely different experience on it's own once I became a mother.

It has been completely different emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Even with what I already knew, I was still thrown into a new version of life.

One filled with love.... but also exhaustion.

And i'm still exhausted!!!

But I would never trade it.

I was so excited to have my baby and I couldn't wait to hold him in my arms. Once i did, I realized that I would do anything for my child. I would be there for him always.

That kind of love changes you.

It challenges you.

I was so scared, and I still am. I still feel unsure of myself as a mom, it is still so new to me. Feeling these things are normal and you should embrace them. We have all been there, but I don't think us women talk about it enough.

Becoming a mom made me realize I would literally be a wall for my child if anyone made me feel uneasy.

Becoming a mother is a beautiful process, but it is incredibly hard... the identity shift is real. The mental challenges are real. There can be relationship strain. One moment it's you and your partner, the next there is a little baby that will take all the time from both you and make you feel distant from each other.

There is also a loneliness that can come with it while the baby is young.

There is no routine while you are figuring out this phase, it makes your days unpredictable and that can cause more struggles with yourself.

But even with all of those things, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Watching your baby slowly grow up and hit certain milestones brings me so much joy and love that I would go through this all over again so I could experience the little moments all over.

Becoming a mother is HARD. But I wouldn't trade it for anything and I am loving the new me.

I hope this post helped and hope you stay tuned for more!

-Nikki