Frida's cafe

10 years as a Mama. Seems like forever, and yet, not really. I can close my eyes and remember the smells, the sounds, and the way every corner of my body felt the day Gael was born. I remember feeling a deep love unlike anything I had ever felt. I also had a new appreciation for my body and its unique powers. Beautiful powers I never entirely understood until that day, 

This journey has taught me so much. It has made stronger and more aware. 

10 years! 

Here are 10 things I am learning being a mama. I say I am learning because being a mama is constant evolution and education that never stops.  

1. They do grow very fast. It is true what they tell you as a new parent. They do grow very fast. Time flies and does not stop. Sometimes I wish to hit rewind and be more present in certain moments/phases. Enjoy the now. Always be present. 
2. Everything happens when it is supposed to. I have learned to be patient. Kids walk on their own time. They will use the toilet on their own time. They will verbalize in their own time.  I have learned not to push, self-impose, and let things happen as they will.
3. It’s okay if you can’t control everything. This may be the hardest of all, but I’m learning there are some things I cannot control. Sometimes the best thing to do is let go.
4. Sometimes having no plans is the best plan. There are days I just figure things out as I go, with no plan or set schedule. Less pressure allows me to breathe and quickly adjust when necessary.
5. It is okay to cry. I let him cry. I cry in front of him, and that’s okay.
6. It is okay to apologize. I’m learning how to say sorry when I’m a jerk. It’s not easy, but it is important to recognize when we screw up. It is okay to say, “I was wrong,” or “I shouldn’t have said…” It is also okay to ask for forgiveness. It’s good practice.
7. Don’t stop doing things I love. I stopped doing things I love a few years after becoming a mama and realized that was not good for me. I’m actively working on changing that, but it hasn’t been easy. I am learning how to take small steps — it seems more manageable.
8. Make time. For you. For your friends. For travel. For small moments that bring you joy. Make time away from your child. 
9. My best looks different every day. There are days I feel like a superwoman- like I can do anything. There are others I can barely get up from bed. I am learning that my best may look different daily, and that’s okay. My best feels different; it can change and constantly evolve.
10. Practice Gratitude. I am learning to practice gratitude on my own and with him. I am learning to be intentional and grateful even when things aren’t so pretty. Be grateful even when we disagree because it reminds me that I’m raising an independent thinker with a unique personality. An individual person with his own opinions, likes, and dislikes. I am learning how to respect this and grateful for it.

Motherhood is teaching me so much about myself- my strengths and weaknesses. It leads me how to constantly check my biases and perspectives. It is a constant reminder that nothing stays the same, and continuous change is a normal part of the process.