Motherhood: What I learned about myself in the first year (#5)

Dear Readers, This series of my blog will focus on "lessons learned" as we close in on year one. With nostalgia and introspection often comes learning and growth.

Over these next few blogs, I'll share my most important learning moments. Truthful and personal, as I have always promised my readers. My intention is they will help other women, even in a small way. Maybe they're just starting this journey like I was last year. Maybe they've been through this a few times but still have shaky and vulnerable moments. Even though this journey is incredibly personal, I've found that new mothers lean on each other. They often share similar experiences and just want to know they are not alone with their feelings. Remember, the village?

If I had an honest conversation with my pregnant self, what would I say about the first year of motherhood? #5: This baby will become your muse. For the first time, you'll be inspired to write and follow a new passion. Not just for work but for life. Keep going and be open to where this journey takes you.

The first step to exploring this passion was creating It Takes a Village, which I did in April. My goal was to publish at least 50 blogs (1-2 blogs a week) and make it to Evie's 1st birthday, which is tomorrow. This marks #49 and I plan to write one final "wrap up" blog for #50. The question being, what comes next if I choose to "wrap up" this chapter? I don't regret ever creating this blog and being so open and honest with my readers. I definitely had some bumps in early motherhood and I never hid that. Life has gotten easier and more enjoyable, but I first needed to tell the whole truth about the adjustment. Writing these blogs have been therapeutic for me, and I've been told by others that these are important stories to tell. People relate to the complex emotions and somehow feel better knowing that they aren't alone. Even if it's from a stranger. Now that I am warmed up, perhaps my next chapter is publishing an e-book about my early motherhood experiences or working on a children's book. Now we move into year two and I am no longer "losing myself." I want to celebrate her growing up. And me growing into motherhood. I conclude this blog series by saying that the little girl I never thought I would have has become my muse. She is what I think about when I put pen to paper. I am deeply thankful to Evie for unlocking a new passion inside of me.