I’m a stay at home mom to two awesome kids (4 years and 15 months). In addition to staying home with my two kids, I also run a public relations business, Duo Communications, part-time.
When Erin asked me to write about being a mom, I started thinking about what motherhood has been like since I welcomed my first child four years ago. So, here are 5 things I’ve learned since being a mom.
1. Moms can handle anything…and I mean anything. I am the world’s most squeamish person. I hide my face when there is a bloody scene in a movie or cover my ears when I hear a scary story. But when it comes to my kids, I can handle almost anything. I’ve changed the grossest diapers, held my kids when they’ve been sick and “doctored” major boo-boos without blinking an eye. When you’re a mom and it’s your kid, it just doesn’t bother you.
2. Cars where kids ride will NEVER be clean inside. And I mean, never! Before I had kids, I always wondered why the cars of parents with small children could never stay clean. Now I doubt that I’ll ever have a clean car again. Kids will trash a car in 30 seconds flat. Between my two children, the backseat of my car has been covered in a blanket of dry cereal, toys, lost socks and discarded scraps of paper. At least the front seat is clean, right?
3. Time and planning are more important than ever. I stay home with my kids but I also work from home. I use every available second to get my work done but also make sure I spend time playing with my kids, get their meals ready and shuttle them to and from their various appointments, classes and playdates. Because of this, it’s extremely important that I have a plan for every day so nothing gets forgotten.
4. Every cliché is true. Having kids is like having your heart walk outside your body. They do grow up too fast. They will always be babies in your eyes. And you really will turn into your parents (like it or not).
5. Nothing beats a tiny voice saying “I love you, Mommy!” It’s the best. No explanation needed.
Heather is both a friend and former colleague from my Capstrat days. She’s a pro at strategic communications plans and event planning. She’s also the best pedicure buddy ever.
Fantastic post! I also work from home and know that every minute is important. Thanks for sharing!
I so agree. My kids are 4 years old and 15 months as well! (Bet we saw each other in the hospital hallway. 🙂
I had to laugh about your car never being clean! It's so true. I cleaned out the minivan this weekend and there were still things falling out of it when I dropped my kids off at school. Totally embarassing!