As I navigate through my thirties, I’ve noticed some changes. My rear end is wider and flatter (could be all the time spent blogging rather than aging) and my hands have started to show their years. I never thought my breasts could shrink further, yet here we are. Grey hairs pop up occasionally, and the fine lines on my face have become more noticeable. After enjoying the ample “milk bags” I had during nursing, accepting this new reality has been a challenge. I don’t look bad, but I’m not exactly turning heads unless I drop a colorful expletive at the wrong time. Still, I’ve come to terms with my appearance. I may not be as fit and active as I wish to be, but I find joy in my mid-thirties “mom bod.” In fact, becoming a parent has positively transformed how I view myself.
1. A New Sense of Power
When my husband is away at work, I stand tall as the strongest, fastest, and tallest person in our home, thanks to my energetic three-year-old and five-year-old. This feels like a refreshing change from my usual self-image, and I relish this newfound sense of power. I might stumble on the trivia during family game nights, but I feel like a giant in my kids’ world.
2. Embracing My Curves
My lifelong battle with my pear-shaped figure has softened since I’ve seen my daughter inherit my curves. Watching her embrace her own body helps me realize that if she’s perfect just as she is, then I must be too. I am who I was meant to be, thanks to a blend of divine design and perhaps a few too many snacks.
3. Scars as Badges of Honor
The scars, stretch marks, and loose skin from motherhood are like badges of honor. They may not conform to traditional beauty standards, but they tell a unique story of my journey—a beautiful piece of art in its own right.
4. Respecting My Body
My body, which carried and nurtured life, deserves respect and pride, even if my breasts resemble those of a retired breeding dog.
5. The Power of a Haircut
For the last six years, my hair has mostly been in a ponytail. When I finally treat myself to a fresh haircut, I feel like I can conquer the world—strutting with confidence and pulling off hair flips that could rival any commercial. A great haircut used to be a nice perk; now, it feels like a transformative experience for me.
6. The Heels Dilemma
Heels have never been my favorite, despite their ability to add height. I can appreciate their aesthetic in my closet, but now that my wardrobe revolves around playdates and parks, they stay tucked away.
7. Affection from My Children
My children shower me with affection, calling me “snuggly” and claiming I give the best kisses. I once playfully asked my son what his friends thought of me, expecting a compliment. He simply replied, “Every kid thinks their mom is wonderful.” I couldn’t help but smile, squeezing him until he begs for mercy.
8. Compliments from My Daughter
My daughter loves to give compliments. She might say, “Good job, Dad!” while he tackles household tasks, and she doesn’t hold back with me either: “You look pretty, Mom!” or “You make the best soup (from a can), Mom!” It’s as if I’m winning the mom award, and it feels fantastic.
9. Celebrity Doppelganger
Since my daughter is young enough to see me as a doppelganger of any brunette celebrity, I strategically leave out magazines. When she points out the Jennifers—Garner, Lopez, Lawrence—and tells me how much I look like them, it’s an instant boost for my ego.
10. Surrounded by Love
I am surrounded by love. My children see my imperfections as part of the mom they cherish, while my husband respects and adores me, always eager for those intimate moments.
Despite the changes my body has undergone over these past six years, I feel more confident and satisfied with myself than I ever did before becoming a parent. To explore more about the journey of parenthood and home insemination, check out this insightful post on intracervical insemination. For those looking to embark on the path of motherhood, Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kit is a fantastic resource. And don’t forget to visit the CDC’s site for valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, the journey of motherhood has reshaped my body image in ways I never expected, fostering a sense of pride and contentment within me.