Before I became a Mom, I owned “Dry Clean Only” clothes; I coordinated my jewelry with my outfit, wore stylish shoes and (almost) always did my hair and makeup.
I had time to myself, read books, indulged in hobbies, and loved to go shopping. There was time to try out new recipes, do my nails, go to yoga, and further my career.
All that changed when I had kids…
These days, my clothes are easy-care and I don’t wear much jewelry; I live in Keds and Blundstone boots, and my hair is usually up in a ponytail.
I spend most of my time tending to my family and consider myself lucky to read a magazine article; I forget what my hobbies were (I had those?) and rarely get to go shopping (when I do, it’s usually rushed, so I don’t bother).
There’s not much time to get creative in the kitchen so we eat a lot of chili, chicken fingers and homemade soup. My nails are in need of tending, my downward dog could use a lot of improvement, and some days, I’m in WAHM hell.
But, you know what?
Before I became a Mother, I didn’t know that clothes, shoes and jewelry would be the absolute last things on my mind; that even if I had oodles of time to myself, I’d choose to spend it with my kids; and that the best hobbies are those we enjoy together – drawing, crafting, reading and playing.
Shopping for my kids is just as fun as shopping for myself (who knew?); and even though I’m no Martha Stewart, we all sit down and eat supper together every night – which is no small feat. While it’s important to take care of myself, the time I spend with my kids while they’re still little is fleeting. So, I’m comfortable in the knowledge that there will eventually be more time for yoga and manicures.
Before I became a Mother, I knew it would be the hardest job I’ve ever done… and that doesn’t come close to the reality. It’s the toughest, most frustrating, challenging and physically demanding job I could imagine. But it’s also the most fulfilling, rewarding, utterly joyful experience I’ve ever had. Some days suck, it’s true… but others more than make up for it.
As for my career, it’s amazing how fate’s twists and turns have led me to a place of complete and utter perfection. Sleepless, working nights be damned, this is where I’m supposed to be.
Messy ponytail and all.
Jenn - @jennabitbol says
I remember when I had my daughter (at 24), none of my friends had kids yet. Two of my friends were over at my house and we were talking about the shampoo we use and they both used expensive salon brands and I was using cheap drug store brands. I realized that at that point, it just didn't matter to me (even though I was a bit jealous)!
Rachel says
Lisa what a fabulous post, I couldn't have said it better myself.
Fab Frugal Mama says
Isn't it amazing how our perspective completely changes once we have a little person? Thanks for sharing, Jenn!
Fab Frugal Mama says
Thanks, Rachel… I appreciate the kind words! Glad you liked it. 🙂
Multi-Testing Mommy says
Great post, my dear! Well said!
Christine from MommyMatter says
Motherhood definitely changes life completely. There are days I miss having no schedule, no rules, no must do's. But then I remember the loneliness I experienced that I never experience now. My children made my life have meaning, and that is the best!
Just Us Girls says
This was an awesome post. I believe I was the same way before I had kids and became a mother.
AnnMarie Brown says
I remember my before children days … when I wore suits to work.. with heels every day… now yoga pants and a t-shirt are what I can be found in most… so I can keep up with the kids.
Mom vs. the boys says
that was fabulous! I can totally relate to all of that, except the downward dog, can't say I've tried yoga lol
Tammy says
I love motherhood, really changes the way you look at life! GREAT POST!
Fab Frugal Mama says
Thanks!
Fab Frugal Mama says
Wholeheartedly agree, Christine! Thanks for sharing… 🙂
Fab Frugal Mama says
It's amazing how much motherhood changes us. Even if we don't think it will be that drastic – it is! Thanks!
Fab Frugal Mama says
That's me, too, AnnMarie! Yoga pants are my go-to… I try to mix it up occasionally, though! LOL
Fab Frugal Mama says
My downward dog really has suffered, so you're probably best to try it out for the first time *after* the kids are a bit older! LOL Thanks!
Fab Frugal Mama says
As they say, it's the best of times and the worst of times, Tammy! I'm just glad the "best" part outweighs the "worst"! 🙂 Thanks!
Christine McN says
FAbulous post, Lisa! I feel the same way. SO much has changed since I had Little One. Life is so different, yet "fits" so well and makes so much sense. Does that sound weird?