Becoming a mom for the first time is a dramatic shift in any woman’s life, bringing with it a whole host of new and often overwhelming emotions. First, it’s not just you anymore: There’s an entirely new tiny human being to care for, who requires devoted one-on-one attention and love. Second, your body is fraught with some pretty crazy hormonal changes, which can impact how you think and feel about everything—and you start crying all the time, even when you’re really happy.
Despite the awe and sheer delight that this new bundle brings into your life, being a first-time mom is hard. I always knew I was going to have a baby, but I never thought I would have one this early on in my life. I was always that one girl who avoided the topic of babies with my friends because the idea of it scared me. When I first found out I was pregnant, I didn’t believe it and panicked a bit. When I told my husband and saw his reaction and joy, that’s when I knew it was time for us to step into the next chapter of our lives. Unfortunately three months into my pregnancy I had a miscarriage, and it was heartbreaking, but it was through my miscarriage that I realized I actually was ready to have a baby.
It was the most emotional time of my life, but there is always good that comes out of the bad. It’s funny because I thought I would be doing less after having a baby, but I feel like I’ve been able to accomplish more since having Chloe. You are forced to prioritize once you have a baby, which allows you to think more clearly about what is actually necessary and what is not. It really puts things into perspective. You realize that half the things you were previously doing were unnecessary anyway. Now we have a set schedule, and everyone knows my family comes first. I feel like because I say no to the majority of events and opportunities that I used to say yes to, it allows bigger and better things to come my way.
Love Joyce xxxx
Joyce Koeing 