Joy in the Journey

Yesterday was my fourth child’s fourth birthday! I’m writing this ahead of time, so of course I can’t tell you how it went. But thinking about his upcoming birthday has made me think a lot about our journey together so far. It has not been an easy one.  My pregnancy with him was the hardest of all my pregnancies. I was in a LOT of pain while carrying him, and a LOT of pain after he was born, too. I had surgery when he was about 8 months old, but that didn't take the pain away. (you can learn more about that here ) In short, my son has never known a time when his mother wasn't in some level of pain. Before I experienced chronic pain, I had no idea how it could affect the bonding process between a mother and her baby. You see, chronic pain messes with your brain. It is associated with reduction in gray matter, which can lead to impaired cognitive  abilities, memory impairment, and emotional problems. It also messes with hormonal balance.  When I...

Dear New Mom PART 1 Inspired by my two friends that just became moms. Dear New Mom,   I want you to know that you are incredible!! Whether you motherhood journey started through pregnancy, labor and delivery, adoption, fostering, or any other way, you are incredible! You are an amazing Mom! You are loving on your baby and you are working for his or her best. You are giving of yourself. You are growing, your child is growing and that is a wonderful, beautiful thing. Dear New Mom, It's hard but you've got this! You are stronger than you ever thought you could be. You will function on less sleep than you thought possible. You will do more in all these little moments then you realize. You are building a strong foundation for your child as you love and care for them. Hold them, snuggle, feed, sing, laugh, smile, and enjoy this beautiful treasure that has been gifted to you.  Dear New Mom, You have what it takes! Trust your instincts, do what you feel is best for y...