Insights on Being a Mom

A few months after I had my first child I wrote the following insights on being a mom....and even now, although the specifics might have changed, the main points still hold true and I have been trying to go "back to basics" like these in my parenting...no matter what age my children are.

1. Every moment with your child is precious – Whether it is full of joy, amazement, wonder, smiles, confusion, cries, laughter, peace, exhaustion , doubts, fears or chaos(you will experience them all) treasure each one and remember that they pass quickly.

2. Trust yourself as a Mother and your decisions for your child -No matter whose advice or suggestions you follow, your child is unique (special and unpredictable in her own way) and so are you as a Mom! Every mom has doubts or fears at some point, but don’t let that take away your confidence and joy. God is blessing you with this precious gift; give your fears and uncertainties to Him, so you have the freedom to have fun being a mom.

3. Know that although you WILL make mistakes it will be ok - You and your child will both survive the mistakes and small mishaps that occur. Whether it is the first time she hits her head, you clip her chin in the carseat belt, bend a finger back forcing that wiggling arm into a shirt, or give her a bottle that has gone bad, these accidents are usually far more traumatic for you, than for your little one!

4. Get Daddy involved from the first day and trust him (let him do it his way) – There is nothing more amazing that seeing the two loves of your life falling in love with eachother! And one of the best gifts you can give to your husband and to your child, is to help foster that relationship.