A Few Things I Have Learned About Motherhood

As I near my due date with my fourth baby, and slowly lose my mind daily with the three I already have, I find myself thinking a lot about mothering. And all that goes into it.

Here are a few of the things I’ve learned along the way:

1. Having children is like having the worst roommates sometimes. They move your stuff, eat your food, and leave dishes all over the house. Try to remember though that messes clean up.

2. Your children can be just like you, or polar opposites, and both can be frustrating.

3. You will look at yourself in the mirror one day and realize you are no longer young. And that can feel really sad.

4. We are raising children in an entirely different world than the one we grew up. And that’s terrifying.

5. Your own self care will go down the tubes while you are raising your babies. Cutting their toenails, washing their hair, and getting them to the dentist will take priority.

6. You don’t have to love every moment of mothering. Some of it is really hard and admitting that is okay. In fact, it’s a great thing because it may help someone else.

7. You don’t have to always know what you are doing it. Winging works wonderfully sometimes.

8. Trust your gut. It will rarely lead you astray.

9. Being a mother is lonely sometimes. At times you may even resent being a little person’s entire world. Take time to yourself when you can. And don’t feel guilty for it.

10. Watching your babies grow up and need you less is like a long, slow breakup. One day you will look at them and realize they are almost as tall as you and you will beg time to slow down.

11. If you worry about being a good enough mother, chances are you are an amazing mother. If your kids are fed, bathed, loved, and tucked in at night, consider it a win.

And find another mother who understands to lean on. We are out here. Come find us.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.