Hey Mama, It's Ok.
It’s ok to admit that this is hard. That this season is a little bitter-sweet. That sometimes, it all feels like too much to juggle.
It’s ok to need a break. From the baby that won’t stop crying. From the bigs who keep pushing your buttons. From the house where it feels like you can’t get a moment of peace. From the constant pulls of motherhood.
It’s ok to accept the help. From your girlfriend who offers to bring dinner. Or your mama who shows up to love on your bigs. Or your husband who gives you a little bit of alone time when someone has needed you all. day. long. And if the help hasn’t been offered…ask.
It’s ok to say no. Actually, it’s essential. To that phone call you don’t really want to take. To the visitors when you don’t have the energy. And to yourself when you want to get just “one more thing” checked off your list.
It’s ok to ask for what you need. An hour to yourself. An uninterrupted shower. Someone to fold the laundry. Or even a Starbucks fix (that can’t. just be me, right?!) It’s not selfish…it’s survival.
It’s ok to feel all of the big feelings. It’s ok to feel sad. And then euphoric. And then overwhelmed. And then grateful. And then exhausted. And then so deeply in love that it hurts. And then at your wits end. And back through the cycle again…multiple times a day.
It’s ok to do it your way. Motherhood, I mean. You can read all the books, ask advice from your mama friends and Google #allofthethings…but at the end of the day, you have to do what feels right for you and your family.
Mama…it’s ok.
It’s ok to cry.
It’s ok to cuss.
It’s ok to not love every moment or to just need your space.
It’s ok to miss the pieces of yourself that have changed (yes, including your body).
It’s ok to feel frustrated with your partner as you both figure this out. And it’s ok to miss him and the way things were “before.”
IT. IS. OK.
All of it.
Those first days and weeks at home with a new baby, whether it’s your first or you’re a seasoned pro, they are brutal…but also so beautiful. So don’t get caught up in one bad moment or even an entire bad day. Because a new day will come and many new moments along with it.
Take a deep breath. Say a quick prayer (because the good Lord knows that’s about all you have time for in this season…). And give yourself a little grace.
Because Mama…it’s ok.
Keeping it honest from one mama to another,
