If I’m being honest, I’ve never been the biggest fan of you. You’re squishy, all over the place and make it difficult for me to put my pre-baby clothes on. My emotions toward you are somewhat of a roller coaster; sometimes I’m impressed by you, but other times I’m filled with frustration when looking at you. Some days I feel like we’ve come so far, but other days I feel like we’ve made no progress.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that it’s been hard getting over what you used to look like (and looking at old pictures doesn’t make it easier). Clothes, swim suit, no clothes, all of it. I know, it sounds harsh, but it’s the truth.
While there are times I get discouraged by you, most of the time I am so impressed, awestruck that you helped carry two of the most precious gifts the Lord could have ever given me. Not only did you carry them, but you helped keep them safe, warm and cuddled. You did such a great job that they both screamed when they experienced the first rush of fresh air hitting their little bodies. I am amazed that following both births, you were able to provide nourishment and love to my little babies, allowing them to grow physically and mentally.
To top it all off, you were able to heal even after pushing out two eight-pounders and a few weeks after that, you were able to keep me afloat and alive while getting back to physical activity. You chased the feet of a toddler day after day even through all of the newborn days, you danced the night away at weddings and you crossed the half marathon finish line.
And now, you provide a place for my kids to find rest, somewhat flabby mama arms to hold them with and scars that remind me how breathtaking this job of motherhood is. You help reassure me every day that through the good, bad and ugly, motherhood is beautiful and that you are beautiful too. No matter what you look like 10, 20, 30 years from now, I’ll forever be grateful for all you’ve carried and held.
Happy early Mother’s Day to all of the incredible moms, moms-to-be and moms in waiting. Love to you all!
Marina Makes 