As I sit here on the cusp of my first year of motherhood, I realize that all the annoying clichés about raising children are surprisingly accurate.
As a new parent, I’ve been learning that there is nothing quite like the love and bond created between a mother and her child. There’s nothing like seeing your child thrive and grow, watching them change right before your eyes. It’s hard to remember life without them, to go back to what you were doing that doesn’t include them.
So (almost) a year into motherhood, I decided to reflect on how my little one has made my life more meaningful and how the journey bringing him up has been so far.
As people say, the days are long, but the years are short… your children grow up in the blink of an eye. Savor the time while you’re in it.
Andrew is turning one year old soon. Seeing him grow brings in mixed emotions, and as I look back on the journey through the pregnancy and birth, I acknowledge it hasn’t been easy; it was indeed scary sometimes. But no matter the challenges, the journey got me him, and I wouldn’t have my life travel another way.
But let me get to two other things I’d like to specifically talk to you about today:
>> One, PPA or Postpartum Anxiety. It’s that voice in your head that worries you about your kid always – whenever and wherever – even when cooking dinner or taking a shower. It’s like you’re consumed in thoughts about them.
I’ve been working on my PPA for a while now and am glad it’s come down. I’m under control. As someone who used to track my baby’s sleep every single day, the anxiety has reduced to the point where I don’t have to do it anymore. I have started to acknowledge that some things are beyond my control. And it’s honestly, TRULY liberating.
>> Second, Keeping in touch with people. At a certain point, I felt maxed out between my immediate family, extended family, daily life, business, and motherhood… and I lost touch with a few people who were also dear to me. So, if you’re someone who’s there too, know that you aren’t alone.
Listen to this episode for an honest account of my first year as a mother. I hope this conversation helps you in your journey- I am an open book and always here to talk if you need it.
KW: POSTPARTUM anxiety, motherhood, becoming a mother, life’s purpose, extended family, daily life, immediate family