The Best Hood
09.22.2022
You don’t feel any different than you did before. I know, weird. Everyone tells you how much life changes or you’re waiting for those “just wait…” comments to become real, but you don’t feel any of that. I think you’re almost expected to wake up one day, look in the mirror and not even recognize who you are - wrong.
My Journey
Colter has definitely changed me, in the best ways possible, but I wouldn’t say it’s changed my normal routine. I mean, I still go to bed at 8pm… every night.
What they don’t tell you, is how much your baby teaches you about yourself. I am more conscious of what I put into my body, how I talk and take care of myself, and how I communicate with others. I’ve learned that I have a lot of patience, more than what I lead on. I am learning to slow down more during my daily tasks and just take in life’s moments. I never really thought of myself as someone who stressed over their pregnancy or if they had one slice of deli meat for lunch last Tuesday. I also didn’t have any major diet changes.
I never had any of those weird cravings you see all over social media… some people craved burgers or tacos… I craved protein rice bowls, cucumbers, carrots…. and snow crab meat. Don’t ask.
Being a mom is the coolest thing ever. You are this little human’s world. You are his gateway into this new adventure you both are taking on. HOW FRICKIN COOL.
I don’t think anything is more empowering than becoming a mom.
I feel like such a strong woman being able to provide for my child. From feeding him, to teaching him, and guiding him through this small-but-mighty milestones he’s already encountering. Like does life get any better?!
I was always nervous about becoming a mom. My mom has been my rock through everything. I could only dream of being half the mother she is. Every person aspires to be a role model for a little one. We all want our children to learn from us these certain characteristics, that we wished we learned earlier. I still think of myself as this teen-mom who has no idea what she wants to do with her life. I’m 23.
I could write for days on what I have learned, products I love, and any teeny-tiny information that people just assume you should know, but I won’t. Instead I’ll serve as your reminder…
How you feed your baby, is your choice. Fed is best. You are providing for your child, the best way you know how in any instance.
Technology and studies have greatly improved since your grandma and mom have had children. Things are different. You should only listen to what works for you or what your doctor tells you.
The boundaries you set for you and your family, are great. If people have issues with those said boundaries, they are the ones who will try to cross them.
Stick to your gut.
That negativity BS that people will try to feed you, “I never did that with my kids… they turned out just fine…” or my favorite, “just wait until…” - YOU”RE DONE. Leave. We don’t tolerate that.
You are a good mom. You are the best mom. You are a good person. You are strong. You are meant to do this.
It is okay to reach out for help. Family, friends, therapists. It is best to do it sooner rather than later.
It is okay to rock your baby to sleep every night. It is okay to hold them at all hours during the day. Whoever says otherwise… SEE YA.
It is not your job to travel to people to ensure everyone under the sun meets your child. They can come to you.
It is not your top priority to “bounce back” into what your routine was before you had your baby.
Your body will change. Your relationships will change. FOR THE BETTER.
Being a new mom is scary. The last thing we need is to have people micro-managing us with everything pertaining to it. We walk out of the hospital with an idea of how we want to raise our children. And yet, we still feel like we have no idea what we are doing. We just take it day-by-day. That is all we need. It is natural to us to know some things when it comes to a newborn. You do what is best for you and your family, end of story.
What I have learned though from my short time of being a parent…
Your child is a reflection of you.
Your child will adapt to your lifestyle.
If you are the type of person who is go-go-go and is constantly busy with work, projects, or you just have a strict routine. Your child will follow suit and will be able to be “go-go-go” with you.
If you are the type of person who is centered around daily affirmations, self care, or your mentality. You are teaching your child to do the same. They will think and act very similar to you.
Children do not change your lifestyle. Please do not think that, people will tell you they do. They don’t. They are entering your lifestyle, your way of doing things, and you make the decisions. Don’t give up what you love doing for the sake of your child. Let your child in on that life, help them learn, explore and go on new adventures with your littles.
Life is so much more fun, having sidekicks who are your entire world.
I love being a mama.
It is the best job, most challenging yet rewarding title I have ever had. His chubby cheeks, smiles, and babbles fill my soul and give me a purpose in this life. Welcome to the best hood in the world, mama.
