When I first became a mommy, I was in awe of the fact that I was responsible for the little life in my arms. It was my duty to shape her and care for her. It was terrifying and exciting and of course, exhausting. I wanted to remember every little detail and soak up all of her sweet baby moments. And I did. But I was also completely overwhelmed by all of the things that I thought I needed for her and so I focused more on stuff and less on experiences. (Here’s a tip: Babies don’t actually need much!) I have so many photos of her but hardly any of them remind me of what holding that tiny baby felt like or bring back the memory of that sweet baby scent when I kissed the top of her head. 

I wish someone would have told me, really told me how the days are long but the years are short… So short! The best advice I would give to a new mama is to invest in those moments, memories and experiences. Plan them, make them, enjoy them and document them! Photograph them and print them and savor them. 

I hope your kiddo grows up to be a healthy and kind human- that is the most important thing. Having tangible memories to cherish for the rest of your life- ones that remind you of the beautiful chaos that is motherhood, of all the snuggles, infant stretches, piggy toes and messy faces, of all the LOVE that makes your heart want to burst and the exhaustion that you feel at the same time, of your child’s silly quirks and their shy smile or moody toddler phase- Well, having those memories is pretty dang important, too. 

My oldest daughter is 10 now. My husband and I are more in awe and more tired than ever. We’ve added two little boys to the mix and our house is nuts! We often find ourselves saying, “I can’t make this stuff up” when recapping the happenings of our days. And I wouldn’t change a thing! It brings me so much joy when I get to document a glimpse into other families’ lives and know that I’m helping them to create memories that will be cherished for a very long time, just as I now know how important those memories are for my own family. 

Even though this season of life might feel overwhelming and too busy for most of us, it’s a time that will be remembered and missed. Life is chaotic and flawed. But it’s our chaos and it’s perfect.