Mini Motherhood Series- Jess

The mini motherhood series is simply a collection of short interviews. I've reached out to the mothers in my world, both young and old, to glean wisdom and inspire a little bit of reflection.

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My second interview is with Jess.

Home: Cape Town, South Africa

Age: 27 y.o.

Became a mum: 26 y.o.

Kids: One baby boy

Work: Previously a high school history teacher. Just started a new part time job in January running youth ministry at church. Otherwise at home with baby.

What is your 'go to' practical mum tip?

Stash cloths/wet wipes EVERYWHERE - different rooms in the house, the car, every bag you might take out with you. Babies are messy :)

Looking back, what would you say to yourself as you first embarked on motherhood?

Find a balance between asking for help and trusting yourself and your baby! (Well meaning) advice will be flying at you from all different directions but it's okay to do things your own way and in your own time. It's also okay to ask people not to give you advice if you're not in the right space to receive it. Surround yourself with people who you trust/look up to and who will love and respect you and your family and your decisions - lean on them and be explicit about what you need/don't need. Tell those people that you love them a lot.

Knowing yourself as a mother now, what do you need to remind yourself?

Babies are strong and full of grace - thank goodness :) Sometimes you just need to put everything else on hold and give them a snuggle (sometimes for their sake but more often for yours).

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers?

Make sure to share the lows as well as the highs of your parenting journey with people around you. You'll be amazed at how many people have been through similar stuff. It's also helpful to hear about both ends of the spectrum before coming a parent so that your expectations are a little more realistic. Yay for sharing!

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I hope you have enjoyed this beautiful insight into newborn motherhood. I admire Jess' simplicity in explaining the best way to go about taking or leaving advice. It can be so hard sometimes! Also the reminder to tell the people who are in your supportive circle that you 'love them alot'. So good!

All the very best,

J.M x