Motherhood

To this day, I sometimes still can't believe that I am a mother. My little sweet angel turned 6 months old on 14th of June and I am very relieve that me, my husband and the baby have survived the journey so far. I know we will be fine and will enjoy many many exciting years ahead together.

Being a mom is not easy. There are times when I just feel like I can't do this anymore or when I am jealous of my husband going to work (currently I am on my maternity leave and a SAHM). But truth to be told, most of the time I enjoy being a mom. I love seeing her smiles, hear her laughter and very excited to find out what new things she has learned today. She never stop to surprise me.

I know I am relatively new at this but there are definitely a few things that I have learned about motherhood. I put these lessons in my mind so I can keep going and not losing my sanity.

1. Listen to what others have to say but trust your instinct
People like to help and give suggestions to new moms. These include a random person in supermarket, your family, every single person in your coffee groups, etc. It is definitely information and suggestions overloaded! It is definitely not a bad idea to hear what they say (especially if they are experienced mothers) but at the end of the day, the baby is YOUR child and you will know him/her the best. Choose and apply what will work for YOU and YOUR FAMILY. Motherhood is not a sprint but a long distance journey.

2. Create a good support system
Involve your family, attend classes, go out with your friends, join coffee groups, etc. You got the idea. Motherhood can be lonely sometimes and that is why you need people to talk to or simply vent. However, don't forget to spend some time with your baby as well because..

3. The days are long but the years are short
If you have read the Happiness Project book, you would be very familiar with this saying. I still remember when we just had Miss E and I thought whether I would ever see the end of this broken sleep and feeding all the time tunnel. But we did! And I really can't believe (again) that she is already 6 months old. We haven't even done the newborn footprint/handprint cast because I keep thinking of doing it 'tomorrow'. Enjoy the present, enjoy every moment because once it is gone, you can't get it back

4. It is ok to get angry, vent, feel down and lost, etc...
It is part of a being human. It does not mean that you are a bad mother or you don't love your children. Cut yourself some slack. However, if you feel that way all the time, than maybe you need to get some professional help because it could lead to a depression

5. Don't be shy to ask for help
I will be the first one to say that I am no supermom. I have my limit and sometimes I need help from my friends and families. It doesn't mean that I am incapable of being a mom (eventhough sometimes I think like that), but I will burn out if I don't ask for help. Remember this Happy Mom, Happy Children and Husband :)

Well I think that would be my top 5 lessons of 6 months becoming a mother. Cheers to many more years to come!!!!!

6 months old Miss E