Mothering

breastfeeding, friends, imperfection, Jasmine Wood, keeping calm, kindness, mothering, parenting, Rita, toddler - July 6, 2020

How come you're nursing? You're not a tiny baby!

Recently, my 2 ½ year old daughter and I were at the library socializing with other children her age. A nursing toddler, a little girl, Rita’s size, caught her eye. She hurried over and asked “Are you nursing?” The mother replied “Yes.” politely, while the nursing toddler continued breastfeeding.

Mother & Daughter- Friends forever

“I’m always gonna be your friend, always!” Rita exclaimed in her sing-song toddler speak. With those few simple words my heart melted. Lately, Rita and I have had our fair share of battles. Mini battles which stem from day-to-day tantrum prompters like brushing her curly locks, getting shoes and a coat on, or, our latest episode: who gets her out of her crib in the morning, mom or dad.

The Best Gift...EVER

Holidays can be a hard time for almost everyone.

It's hard not to get caught up in the gift giving frenzy, the decorating, the cooking, or the planning of a special event. The expectations are overwhelming.

Grieving & Mothering

“Mom, this card says ‘Don’t worry about Nancy anymore,’” Ember says, as she hands me a sticky note she scribbled on. I wipe away a drifting tear, and take it from her. “Thanks, sweetie. Why shouldn’t I worry anymore?” I want to know what is happening in her mind, partly because I’m feeling guilty.

The Importance of the Mundane

"I was the loneliest person in the world. My baby and I were spiraling down into a living hell..."

My baby cried all the time, refusing to be held by anyone but me. I cried all the time. The pain of the surgery amplified by cracked, burning nipples and the agony of frustration, sadness and betrayal.

And then it got worse.

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