Stevens

A couple of weeks ago my friend Diana asked me to write a post for her blog on Motherhood. I couldn't resist and sat down to do it that night. She just recently posted it to her blog, but I thought that I would share it with my readers as well! To read more, go here.

"Motherhood" is such a huge topic! I feel like I learn something new everyday, which is good I guess! I won't be the first to admit nor the last to deny that being a mom is hard. I think that the hard stuff changes with each phase of life too. Sometimes being a mom feels lonely, and we go unappreciated and unnoticed. However true this feels, it is so not true. Being a mom is such a wonderful gift, and a calling for us divine women from a Heavenly Father who knows we can do it! I love this quote,

"Motherhood is more than bearing children, though it is certainly that. It is the essence of who we are as women." Sheri Dew

Here is one of the first big "Aha" moments I had as a new mom. 

I was once in conversation with someone who is highly accomplished by the world's standards (which isn't bad...just sayin'). This person asked "So, do you work?" While holding my infant daughter I quickly replied sheepishly "No. I'm just a mom." That night I realized how wrong I was. I'm not just a mom. I am a MOM! Never again did I ever say that I'm just a mom. That small world adds great meaning to the idea, and not in a good way. Being a mom is hard work, and thus should be exclaimed with pride! 

I have also learned to always have a Plan B, C, D, etc. etc. Motherhood is not boring, and will always surprise you when you least expect it. I'm still learning not to sweat the small stuff, and that people staring at me while at the grocery store with screaming children are only staring because they were just there doing the same thing with their children, and had forgotten how hard it is! (At least that's what I tell myself;)) 

There is also no perfect mom. It may seem like it when we read magazines, blogs, or talk to other friends. I've learned not to compare my weaknesses with someone else's strengths. It just isn't fair, and leads to negative feelings. I do set goals and strive to be better, but it takes time! I take it one day at a time, and know that my children will love me, and are so quick to forgive! I have learned to lose myself in love, and that each day my heart grows more full. 

I love being a MOM!

Stephanie

Mother of Bristol 2 1/2, and Tytan 7 months