In honor of Mother’s Day, I decided to reach out to some of my favorite bloggers who are also moms and get their thoughts on motherhood. Here’s what Leslie of Lights and Letters had to say.
Photo Credit: Eric Ferrar
What surprised you about motherhood?
I didn’t have too many preconceived ideas about what it would be like to be a mother, so it’s hard for me to say what has surprised me. I guess the greatest thing that surprised me was how hard it was to become a mother. I had a number of miscarriages and it took us three years to finally become parents. No one ever told us that it might be very difficult and emotionally draining before we even had a baby in our arms. That’s been the most difficult and surprising thing for me.
Since I have become a parent what has surprised me the most has been how much these little people force you to grow and evolve into completely different people. Better people. I am more empathetic, more compassionate, more community focused. I have met so many wonderful people through my children. It’s opened up a world for me that I love and enjoy. It’s allowed me to be a kid again and it’s made me realize how much I need to continue growing and learning, with them and for them.
What is one of your favorite memories about your mother?
I actually wrote about one of my favorite memories of my mother on my blog! It was how she stood up for me when I needed her to. She was always there for me. As an adult I also realize how much freedom she gave me, to explore, to be who I wanted to be, to read what I wanted to read. I didn’t know or understand that as a kid, but as a parent now myself, I can see how she was very laid back about a lot of things and I appreciate that now. My view of my parents has completely changed since I have become a parent, it’s so interesting how that happens.
What is one of your favorite things about being a mother?
Feeling proud of my kids is the most rewarding moment for me. When I hear that they are doing well in school, or they helped someone, or they learned a new thing. When they master a skill, or feel proud of themselves. That’s the best. When they are good kids when I am not around. It makes all the hard work worth it when you feel like your kids will venture out into the world and be happy, good people.
I also love the cuddles, kisses and hugs. I know that the way those things are now, with them as little guys, will not last forever. I try to cherish every intimate moment because one day they will not come to me for that physical love.
*****
Leslie is the mother of Milo (almost six) and Quinn (three and a half). She wrote a beautiful post about being a mother of boys. It’s one of my favorites.
Thank you for sharing this with us, Leslie! xoxo