Motherhood is far more beautiful and far more challenging than I imagined, like most good things in this life. Lucy is a little over two weeks old, and we’re both learning what it means to be together in this great big world. I wish I could say that I began the journey of parenthood with resolute grace, but the honest truth is that motherhood is hard and there have already been many moments when I’ve stumbled.
But there have also been countless moments like this: sweet love and powerful connection. Ryan and I are in awe of our daughter. The way she lifts her head up when I place her on my chest. The quiet noises she makes as she nurses. The dark blue-grey eyes that see our world fresh. She is nothing short of miraculous. She reminds me that there is so much more love in this world than hate.
We’ve been venturing out more and more. Grocery stores, coffee shops, the homes of family and friends. We can’t stay out long but the change of scenery is much needed. What a difference from just a month ago! I miss being pregnant on some days. The relative ease it…you know that a life depends on you but you still have so much mobility and freedom. Now, I introduce my baby to people who once commented on my growing stomach. They ooh while she breathes those sweet and short baby breaths. I am so proud of her, and I realize, already, that she is her own person. Perhaps that is what makes the transition from pregnancy to motherhood somewhat difficult. We’ve gone from one to two.
And yet I know that these pains are the first of many. It is no surprise that labor is both painful and exhilarating…it sets the stage for what is to come. Motherhood is surely the sweetest of all roles and also the one most rife with mourning. Each new stage requires the letting go of the old. I hope and pray that I’m brave enough to set aside my own selfish desires so that Lucy can grow into the beautiful and strong woman she’s meant to be.
So yes, we are happy and well and growing and changing. I haven’t been in the kitchen much (due to both sleep deprivation and a lack of AC). But I promise that there are many recipes in the works, and as always, I’m looking forward to sharing them with you.
(And a huge thanks to Kadi Spurlock from Up in the Sycamore. These photographs are priceless!)
This is a beautiful post. She’s so precious Monet, and I love that little dress! So adorable. 🙂
Beautiful, Monet. Parenting is all that and more. What is that Larry McMurty quote? “The toughest job you’ll ever love.”
Absolutely precious words and photos, Monet! This was a treat to read, and it’s such a treat that you’re sharing this tremendous life transition with your readers. Sounds like you all are learning so much every day! Wish I could cook y’all a big dinner to make one part of your day a little easier, hehe. Big hugs.
She’s very gorgeous, Monet. I love the image of her asleep on the chair next to the book case. I think in the early days you just need to take one day at a time and not set your expectations too high. Great that you’re getting out and about. I think I found outings very difficult – especially in the heat xx
the photos are amazing – every season is beautiful in its own way, and challenging in its own way, and I know you two will savor every moment of it…you are a truly beautiful family xo
Congratulations Monet and Ryan!! I just love how you share your thoughts and feelings with us. The ups AND the downs.
Congratulations Monet:D Finally you showed us your beautiful baby…very nice photos and I am looking forward to see her as she grows…:)
What a gorgeous little lady! This post is just so sweet, and it’s wonderful to read the love in it. You are in for a thrilling and exciting ride! *hugs* 🙂
Monet,
I love your sweet words and darling pics of your beautiful baby girl. Thank you for sharing these precious moments of parenthood, and becoming a family:)
So cute!
Awww, I love all those beautiful photos of baby Lucy!
So precious. Your story and pictures bring back my own memory. 🙂 Sweet, having kids is the best gift I’ve received. You two are already amazing parents. Thank you for sharing!
What a sweet little Lucy! Have a great weekend Monet!
Aww, what a little sweetheart! I love that picture of the 3 of you. Have a wonderful weekend!
I’m sure you’ll realize this in the near future, but the joy of nursing comes in waves. Those little noises you take delight in, will eventually become special smiles only for you. Arm rubs during your special time together. Funny little mannerisms you’ll come to grow and love. But there will also be those times of struggle. Of the feeling of endless need. Of moments when you feel you must be doing something wrong. During those times – think back on the joy you’re feeling now and will feel in the future.
Oh Monet, this post–this post is priceless! Your baby girl is adorable…congrats one more time to you and Ryan! By the way I absolutely love both family picture and with little Lucy and you! Catch up on the sleep, while she is still at this stage!
Sending you virtual hugs
Hi Monet,
Lucy is just adorable! Wish you a blessed and fulfilling motherhood journey!
Take care!
This is one of the sweetest posts, you are so lucky to have Lucy in your life 😀
Cheers
CCU
P.S Because of my exams, I will not be commenting for around 4 weeks – see you afterwards!
Wonderful photos! It’s been 28 years since I held my first 2-week old daughter. The time does fly. Don’t worry about the many stages to come. You have countless wonderful stages ahead of you with your sweet Lucy.
What a little doll! Of course motherhood will drive you nuts! And you’ll stumble and rage and cry a lot more over the next few weeks and months. But soon, very, very soon, Lucy will be your adoring companion. Much joy to your beautiful little family.
Monet, precious pictures and beautiful post – your little Lucy looks so clam and content. I love the picture of you holding her in your arms and that pretty dress she is wearing! I am sending you lots of love and hugs! It is nice that you are finding the time and energy to go see and meet family and friends!
Take good care and all the very best!
I know life is tough for a brand new mum so do the things you must do and forget about the rest for now. Your focus is on Lucy and that’s the right thing to do.
She’s a lucky little girl.
Thanks for the photos, she’s beautiful.
Lucy is so cute! Terrific photos. You’ve got a lot on your plate at the moment, so don’t worry about keeping up with the blog. We’ll all be here ready to read your recipes when you’re ready, I promise.
What a sweet post- I’ve been thinking about you!
Congratulations, Monet! She is so beautiful! A lovely post! Enjoy your new little girl, rest and take time for yourself!
Beautiful post Monet.
What beautiful pictures! I love how you write about motherhood, you are honest about the good (which is oh so good) and the difficulties (which are there, no denying it). I never was one for the sugar-coated stories because it doesn’t help prepare new mothers at all.
You are growing so much!! I love reading your posts, so beautifully written.
She is gorgeous 🙂
What a beautiful family! CONGRATS on your baby Monet! Love that last picture, she will grow up and read all those books 🙂 I’ve been experiencing the same feelings for 2 months now and still can’t believe that miraculous little one is with us!
She is so precious… Glad you are enjoying baby and mommy time… =)
She is absolutely beautiful! this is such a beautiful post, I bet she’ll love reading it when she’s older!
Beautiful. Just beautiful. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Aw I love the beautiful photos and your wise words. She is too precious 🙂
Beautiful photos, Monet, and even more beautiful are your words. I love that you don’t sugar coat the birthing process or early motherhood but are still finding all the joys and pleasures that both bring. I have no doubt that you are going to raise Lucy to be an outstanding, down to earth, intelligent person, just like her momma!