Mamaheart

This week’s Mamaheart comes from Judy Singer. If you would like to take part, please drop me an email

What does motherhood mean to you?
Motherhood is like a trampoline. You have your ups and your downs. You could fall off, get hurt, and cry. You could jump, and laugh, and sing. Motherhood is exactly like that. There are moments you treasure, followed by heartache, followed by joy. It’s a total unknown.

How has motherhood changed you?
Motherhood has made me a different person. There is a feeling that you would do anything to protect and nurture your children. I can almost understand an animal’s instincts: fearless and fearful all at the same time. You look at your children and you say, “I did that. I taught them that. I showed them that.” They trust you completely and rely on your for everything.

What is the hardest part of being a mama?
In this day and age with teenagers, dealing with the technology is the hardest part. Before, you used to have to worry about where they were in the neighborhood, and if they would get home by curfew. Now they are not even safe in their own home; you never know who is lurking in cyber space. And as much as you try to keep up with what they are doing on-line or who they are talking to, they are MILES ahead of you and understand ways around everything. I am constantly saying, “Wait, what? What do you do with that app?”

What’s the biggest joy that your children have given you?
The biggest joy my children give me is their ability to make me laugh with a funny look, a goofy story, or a vulnerable moment. They make me feel like I have contributed three wonderful human beings to our society and that they will be the ones who are our future. They gave me joy at their first coo, their first look, their first grasp of my finger, their first hug. The ultimate joy is a heartfelt “I Love You Mom.”

What one piece of advice would you give a first time mama?
ALWAYS do what you say. Never threaten then do nothing; they will own you if you don’t follow through.