And Just Like That, My Girl Is 16

Yesterday, my first born turned 16. As the date approached, I found myself getting emotional, thinking about, how in the not too distant future, she will want to fly our nest. To go off to greener pastures and live her life. My beautiful daughter, watching her grow up, has been a gift.

My eldest, has always been the shy one. The one that likes to sit back, watch the world go by and take it all in. She has always been observant, preferring to sit quietly, as everything happens around her. Always so deep in thought. She has already been through a lot. Experiencing death and separation.

She has already travelled to 7 different countries, the furthest being Japan. Which has awoken a love of travel within her and a desire to see the whole world. Something that I can totally relate to. Along with her love for animals. Which in turn, love her right back and why wouldn't they.

I'm sure, it would make her feel a tat bit uncomfortable, if she knew I was writing about her, but I hope that in a few years, if and when she checks out my blog, she will feel nothing but love, flowing out from my words. Love and pride.

Parenting certainly comes with it's ups and downs. I navigated this journey, solo for the last 7 years and even before that, if I'm being honest. It's a huge responsibility, caring for and supporting 3 amazing beings, that at times press all my buttons.

You want to get to get to know yourself, then spend time with your children, if you have any. They are great at showing you who you are. They never let anything slip and they constantly push you to do better in life. If you are willing to meet them and spend time with them. To let them spend time with you.

One thing I have learned, is if you wish to know your children, then you have to let them know you. It works both ways.

It was my firstborn's birth, that drove me to become a Doula and began my passion for spreading natural birth awareness and post natal support for mothers. I have not been working as a doula, as it would take me away from my home for too long, but I do hope to, when my youngest gets older.

Looking back over the last 17 years, has been emotional. It has been a rollercoaster ride, from finding out that I was pregnant, to almost 10 months later, laying eyes on my beautiful baby girl. Who's entry into this world was traumatic for us both. Something I am very aware of especially for my daughter and the consequences it has had for her, throughout her short time on this earth.

17 years, of my heart growing and swelling with love, as I have grown as a mother, as a woman. I couldn't be more proud of my girls and the wonderful women that they are becoming.

https://images.hive.blog/0x0/