What I've learned about Motherhood so far.....

I've only been a Mother for two years so really...I know nothing compared to most Moms, but here are a few things I've learned. 

1.  It's hard.  It's hard in a different way than anyone ever explained.  No one ever told me how mentally exhausting it is.  All I ever heard about were the long nights, poopy diapers, potty training, etc.  No one ever told me how hard it is giving all of yourself to someone else every. single. day.  I knew Motherhood would be a lot of work, but I didn't have a clue.  I guess it's just something you have to experience for yourself to really understand. 

2.  You can't do this without God.  No way.  I'm not sure how Mother's who have no faith make it.  Really...I do A LOT of praying!  I say small prayers throughout the day for patience, for energy, for peace.  I pray for my son, for his future, for his inability to share, for his strong will, for my understanding of who he is as a person, for good decision making from Jerry & I, for help in nurturing his "spirited" personality, for the health of our new little one, for Jackson's future wife, help for guiding Jackson on God's path for his life, for guidance in our parenting journey.

3.  Having a sick baby sucks.  That's about all I can say about that.

4.  You have to let all your ideas you had of your perfect life go.  God has a better plan...way better than our simple little minds can comprehend.  Don't be disappointed.  Things happen...babies get sick....you get tired....things get spilled....Poop explosions happen...your child will ruin that perfect outfit you really wanted them to wear for something special....your baby will have tantrums & act a fool regardless of what how you previously thought your child would act.

5.  Your house will never be perfectly clean.  EVER.  If it is you are a freak of nature & I need to know how that happens.  At our house as soon as I put something away Jackson takes it back out. 

6.  Having a baby turns your entire world upside down.  Everything about you changes. Just go with it.  It's not a bad thing. 

7.  You will love your babies (they will always be called my babies) more than you could ever imagine.  Sometimes you will look at them or think of them & just want to cry because they are so special. 

8.  Whatever expectations you have of Motherhood.....throw them straight out the window.

9.  You must have a little time for yourself every once in a while or you will lose your mind.  If someone offers to help you...take it.  Don't let your pride get in the way.

10.  Everyone will have opinions of how they think you are raising your child and how they think you should be doing it.  Take the good advice....forget the bad, hurtful ones.  You are doing the best you can.

11.  You need support.  Find a MOPS group or some other group of Mothers who know what you are going through.  It helps.

12.  You know your child better than anyone else.  Your motherly instincts are usually right.

 

13.  Give yourself some slack, MOTHERHOOD ISN'T FOR SISSIES. 

to be continued....as Jackson teaches me more :)