Gave up & Gained...

"Being a mom isn't about what you gave up to have a baby, but what you gained from having one"

I've seen and heard this saying many times since having my first baby. But seeing it today, all I could think of was... "I gave up a smaller body, and gained stretch marks" ...I know that's not the purpose of what the phrase is saying, but still, quite true:)

How I look at myself is NOT what I want to teach my girls is right. I WANT to teach them to love and accept themselves no matter what they look like. Even if they don't think they are perfect the way they are. I know it's so cliche' to say that, but it is still true. 

Since getting married a little over 8 years ago I have gained 60 pounds. That includes having 3 kids. Growing up I was always quite petite. When I got married I was in size 3 jeans at 20 years old. I won't say what size I wear now. I still don't feel like this is my body...if that even makes sense. 

And the stretch marks...honestly, what can I say about that? Nothing nice comes to mind. If your a mom, you probly have them. 'Nough said on that.

Then, there is this...I gained 3 amazing little girls! (I will say more positives later)

I gave up...my body, my freedom, and myself.

I already talked about the first. If your a parent you know about the freedom. Good bye date night...hello mac n cheese and Disney movies. 

Something else I have given up... is myself. If your confused on this one, let me explain. Everything is about the kids. What's for dinner? ->Something the kids will eat... What do you want to watch? ->Something Princess... Date night?->no babysitter... seriously, kids are at the center of every decision made. 

I've gotten to the point that at times, I don't even know who I am anymore. Everything I do is about the girls, Everything I even think about is about the girls. They...have taken over my life. 

But...I wouldn't have it any other way... Weird right?

I've gained stretch marks, fulfillment, and passion.

Again, I've already mentioned the stretch marks. I've heard some say to love your stretch marks because its proof that you've had babies. If you love your stretch marks...more power to you. I don't like mine.

I have gained so much fulfillment. I know its not their job, but my kids fulfill my life. They give me purpose. I have so much passion for my kids. At times they drive me crazy. At time I even need to distance myself from them. But I still love them more than anything. We have alot of fun together! 

They make me smile!

Even with the ups and downs, gains and losses...I am so so thankful for my girls. I will take the stretch marks, identity loss and, weight gain if that means being a mom.