10 Realities of Motherhood I’ve Learned Along the Way

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Back in my pre-mom days, I was so sure I had the whole parenting thing down. Spoiler alert: I didn’t. And honestly, I’m still navigating this wild ride and probably always will be. Here are my 10 motherhood truths that have evolved as I embraced this chaotic journey.

1. My Fears Have Multiplied. It’s not just about the dangers lurking in the world; it’s the little things, too. From worrying about a 6-week-old with bronchiolitis to the heartbreak of my 5-year-old when his best buddy suddenly shifted allegiances. The fears keep piling on, and it’s a constant balancing act.
2. Self-Doubt Is a Daily Companion. Some days, I feel like I’m nailing it as a mom. Other days? Not so much. I question if I’m too strict, too lenient, or if I’m doing enough. That nagging doubt is always there, whispering in my ear.
3. I’ve Found Patience I Didn’t Know I Had. I used to roll my eyes at slow walkers, but now I can answer countless questions about Peppa Pig without losing my cool. Who knew patience could become a superpower?
4. Beauty Is All Around Me. As cheesy as it sounds, I’ve learned to appreciate my environment more, especially when I slow down for my kids. I’ve spotted baby birds, vibrant flowers, and endless blue skies because I’m not always racing ahead.
5. My Capacity for Love Surprises Me. When my second child was on the way, I thought my heart was already full. Then came the twins, and I worried I couldn’t possibly love them all the same. Yet, my heart somehow grows bigger every day, to the point where I feel it might burst.
6. I Can Dig Deep When Needed. During tough times, like when my twins were in the NICU, I found strength I didn’t know I had. Juggling hospital visits and caring for my older kids was exhausting, but I pushed through. Solo parenting while my partner travels is daunting, yet we always come out stronger.
7. Kids Are Full of Surprises. I expected my second child to be jealous of the twins, but instead, he embraced his new role as the big brother. It’s astonishing how adaptable they can be, even when it comes to sleeping with a mountain of Hot Wheels.
8. I Crave Connection. Motherhood is a funny thing. With four kids, I’m never alone, yet I often yearn for some “me time.” But when I get that rare moment, I find myself missing their little giggles and warm hugs.
9. Parenting Tests All Relationships. Each new child has shifted my relationship with my spouse, and even with in-laws and friends. Some friendships fade, while others transform into something different. My priorities have changed, and maintaining those relationships isn’t always at the top of my list.
10. Time Is a Trickster. Some days feel like they drag on forever, while in an instant, my baby has turned into a walking, talking kid. The weeks in the NICU felt endless, yet somehow, here we are, six months later. It’s a reminder to cherish every moment because they truly fly by.

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In summary, motherhood is a blend of joy, fear, love, and self-discovery. It’s a wild ride filled with ups and downs, but embracing each moment is what makes it worthwhile.