WITHOUT using labels, who are you?
Anxious over-thinker who thrives in creative spaces. I love making friends but find it difficult because I never want to bother people. An extroverted introvert. Lover of photography, animals, puzzles, bird watching, & being outdoors.
While I was a Kindergarten teacher in Atlanta, I ran a small photography business that specialized in lifestyle photography. Since being a military wife & mom I haven’t kept up with the business but hope to get back into it someday.
Website: http://www.alittlephoto.com
What do you think is the biggest misconception about motherhood?
That you lose a sense of yourself after becoming a mother or that “your life is over.” I think our society often devalues motherhood and it doesn’t seem as important as a typical 9-5 job. People often see you as “just a mom” and that it totally defines your entire being. Being a mom is the most powerful thing I’ve ever done - I am beyond grateful for the opportunity and the life that I have made. I am also my own person and have hobbies and interests outside of taking care of my children - & I want my children to see that. I want them to be inspired by me and other strong moms around them.
What do you think is the most common thread of motherhood?
That we all want the best for our children.
Where and when do you feel most at home?
When all of my family is together.
Describe your kids.
Penelope is a two year old full of adventure. She is the most jovial human being who loves people but especially loves animals. She prefers being outdoors and only wants to wear clothing she can twirl in
Where are you from and where do you live, and what do you like about this place? Is there anything you loathe about it?
I am from Georgia but currently reside in Jacksonville, Florida. We’ve only been living here since last June as my husband is a helicopter pilot in the Coast Guard. So far, it is a drastic change from our previous duty station which was in Northern California. Jax is a heavily populated area compared to the tiny town in Humboldt, California. My favorite thing about Jacksonville is the warmer weather.
What do you adore about being a mother?
Watching my daughter explore the world and grow.
What do you despise about being a mother?
Lack of sleep
When do you and how do you feel totally relaxed?
I don't know if I ever feel totally relaxed - especially now as a mother. I'm an anxious person by nature but motherhood magnifies that. I'm constantly thinking of what needs to be done or if Penelope has what she needs etc. However, give me a glass of wine and a bath tub & I'll try.
What is one tiny victory you’ve had recently?
Being essentially a single mother while my husband has been deployed since January. Parenting a very independent minded toddler while 6 months pregnant is.. tough.
What do you dream of for yourself? For your children?
To be supported, loved, and fulfilled. To live a life full of as much laughter as possible.
How did you feel about being pregnant? What do you remember most about pregnancy?
I had difficulty getting pregnant with my first child, Penelope. We had a miscarriage prior to her and then spent two years trying to conceive her - it was a rough time in my life. I was ecstatic to be pregnant, in awe of my body, and so grateful for the experience. Now, that being said - I had a very rough pregnancy with her. I had the worst morning sickness throughout, strong food aversions mixed with intense smells, gestational diabetes preventing me from eating whatever I wanted.It was challenging. The night before I was induced I bawled my eyes out though because I wasn't going to be pregnant anymore. Basically, pregnancy (as well as motherhood) is such a rollercoaster of vast emotions. My favorite part is feeling the baby move around - it still blows my mind how our bodies can create and grow a human life.
What, if anything, do you want to remember about your birth story? Early motherhood?
The magic of it all. The intense moments of feeling like I can't do one more contraction to the calm conversations with the doctor during all the in-betweens discussing what our dogs are like or what kind of wine we prefer. I remember the doctor putting on the scrub gown and saying "Ok, you ready.. it's go time" when it was really time to push and the baby's head was crowning. At that moment I burst into tears and said "I'm just happy. I can't wait to meet her."
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