Yesterday, I took a little time to reminisce about Andrew’s birth and as I was browsing photos from his birth day, I found a photo of me, trying so hard to get it right. And I realized that yesterday, is not just Andrew’s birthday…it’s also an anniversary for me. It’s the day I became a mom.
And as cheesy or as obvious as that sounds, when I thought it through and considered all the ways I’ve grown and all the things my kids have taught me…it seemed like a pretty big deal. And not cheesy at all, really. My experience of motherhood has been a pressure cooker of hard and good life lessons. Motherhood has broken my heart…but when I think about that…it doesn’t feel like a hurt I regret. I feel like motherhood has broken my heart open. Worth a small nod on the day it all happened, I think.
So I took some time out of yesterday’s to-do list and put this together.
I’ve been telling pregnant women I know: “Buckle up. It’s a wild ride.” They always nod and I say “I know.” And I think to myself “no you don’t. I thought I knew and I had no idea.” There’s really no way to tell them. I guess you have to see it to believe it.
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Such a clever post Robyn – and how true! Let me tell you, it doesn’t get easier with age either! It just changes. They will always be your babies even when they are all grown up. My daughter is having a hard time at the moment and it breaks my heart to see her so sad. Those Mummy-genes never get swiched off. They have to find their own way and we can only guide them and be there to support them. You are doing a magnificent job and your boys are so lucky to have you in there fighting their corner.
Hi Robyn,
I have a son who was also born in early June, 12 years ago, and I have always (privately-in my mind) celebrated his birthday while also celebrating the anniversary of the day I became a mom. I can’t remember how I stumbled upon your blog, but I check it weekly, and I am in awe of you. Your dedication, your perserverance , your love of your boys, and your desire to grow, all while scrapbooking, baking, and planning outings. You are amazing and your family is soooo lucky to have you. There is a new book out titled “The Autism Revolution” by Martha Herbert, MD, PhD with Karen Weintraub that caught my attention on my library’s suggested “health, mind & fitness” list. I’m reading it in your honor, wanting to understand your boys more and what you are facing. You might want to check it out. The subtitle is Whole body strategies for making life all it can be. Sending you hugs and affirmations so you can keep doing what you’re doing.
Wow Cheri! Thank you!! Your comment totally made my day!
Did you know that in Holland it is traditional to give the mum flowers on their child’s birthday? I love that idea!
You’ve created a beautiful page in celebration of a most wonderful thing.
My mom used to give my dad’s mom flowers on his birthday. :) so sweet, but it always makes me feel like a bad daughter-in-law! It is a good idea though.
We are certainly in sync this year Robyn, I have a post coming that is almost identical! Our eldest children are born on the same day, mine a couple of years before yours, but, none the less, June 12 was a game changer!
You have me here with watery eyes. Lovely post, Robyn. And oh so true.