Motherhood is such a mix of emotions. Mostly full of joy, pride, and love. Each day is different, some you find that you are on top of everything i.e the housework, you’ve showered and you have maybe went for a walk and some days the house is a total mess, you haven’t showered but your baby is smiling, clean and fed.
Being a chronically ill mum, it adds a whole lot more into the mix! You ache, some days you can’t eat, you’re so exhausted from looking after a little human and the chronic fatigue. On the good days, however, you make the most of your day! Which is exactly what I did in the picture above. You begin to find your own routine, too, which helps you make a plan in your mind when you can take your medication and shower, which are the main important things for me. Self care is so important (I know, I ALWAYS say this, but it’s true!), and you need to remember to take time for yourself too, it helps keep you sane, relaxed and can benefit your mental health. I also try to get out for walks with Odin and our dog Biggie, when it isn’t too cold. On the days where I’m either too tired or sore to do much or Odin’s having a bad day, I may find myself being pooped on, spewed on, haven’t been able to shower and the house is a mess! It’s totally OK to have days like those.
The main downside I’ve found, from a combination of chronic illnesses and being a mum, is that you soon realise who is REALLY your friend. It’s a harsh, quick sadness that you may find yourself in more times than once. I’ve had friends turn out to be huge jerks after years of friendship, out of nowhere, or I simply didn’t see the signs. I’ve dealt with friends simply blocking me for standing up for myself, another was truly awful to me because I was hoping to have a girl in my pregnancy and others just simply not think of me and dont invite me to anything. You also realise what family truly cares about you, too. I’ve had many not bother to message and ask how Odin is or myself, some so excited for me to have a baby and meet Odin and i gave up asking them when they wete free with excuses and some didn’t even congradulate me when i announced my pregnancy. However, there is also the beautiful side of life, where you make new friends and choose your family! I’ve made such amazing friends with other chronically ill mums, have been blessed with still having friends from school around and the family I have now, are so supportive and loving that I consider Odin, Jaimie and I super fortunate. I like to count one blessing or good thing in each day, which helps me cope so much! For example, yesterday, we got out for a walk and spent time with family. The day before, I had a long soak in the bath and really enjoyed some me time.
In tough times, count your blessings and love the people who love you! The rest who don’t think about you don’t let yourself think about them.❤
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