True statement: Ain’t no hood like motherhood.
As I type this reflection on motherhood, I’m starring at my infant, praying she doesn’t wake up and start her Mariah Carrie-esque cries. I’m telling you, the girl can hit the high notes! Still in pajamas, I’m gazing at my laptop screen with tired eyes and doing my best to spill out honest thoughts before my feeding alarm goes off—whether that be little Mariah herself or my iPhone reminder! But most significantly, as I type, with chipped nails and messy hair, I am the most fulfilled I’ve ever been. I’m also crying because, well, yay hormones!
This year, Mother’s Day is different. I’m seeing the holiday in such a fresh and beautiful light. You see, I was officially inducted into the mommy gang seven weeks ago. They’ve been the most challenging (seriously, it’s really, really, really hard!) and yet most rewarding and amazing (seriously, it’s really, really, really sweet!) weeks of my life.
My beautiful baby girl, Siena Dominguez, was born at 9:58 p.m. on Sunday, March 18, 2018. I had a successful and healthy labor of more than 24 hours of contractions, five hours of active labor and 30 minutes of pushing. She was perfection, with lots of hair, long legs and wide-open, observant eyes.
I’m proud to say that I was able to achieve my personal goal of a completely natural birth! While there was no epidural or drugs of any kind, there were plenty of tears and about 10 different “I can’t do this” moments. It was the most painful challenge (both mentally and physically) that I’ve ever faced. But I did it. And honestly, the experience made me feel so powerful! I, and all moms, can do anything! Moms are superheroes and I’m proudly wearing this cape! Wait...can mine be gold, and personalized?!?
Since Siena joined our family, I have cried, laughed, smiled, and been absolutely terrified more than I’ve ever been in my life. I seriously never knew such extreme emotions were possible. And can we talk about that extreme exhaustion? I AM SO TIRED.
Motherhood is no joke. It’s difficult and draining and I now realize all of the sacrifices my own mother made for me, and understand how much all moms do for their children. It’s beyond amazing. Thank you, mom, and thank you to all moms!
On the flip side, my heart is so full. I know it’s annoying to hear parents say “you don’t know what love is until you have a child,” but as cliché as it is, there’s nothing more true! My life now has a new meaning. My priorities have completely changed and she is my motivation to work hard and be better. I love her more than I knew I was capable. And that feeling, that crazy-beyond-measure love, is why this superhero gig is more than totally worth it.
I’m wishing all moms and mother figures (working moms, stay-at-home mommas, experienced, and new!) a very HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
Let’s celebrate you and all that you do for your family. And don’t forget momma, you CAN do it all and there’s no one else in the world more beautiful or strong.
And I speak on behalf of my taudrey team when I share that it’s a genuine honor for us to make and present pretty jewelry that celebrates moms and females. Thank you for trusting us with making your momma smile. It means the world.
Again, HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
Xo, Tiff
Styled Newborn Images: Christy and Co. Photography