Motherhood has for these mothers been a journey of discoveries — about self, family, balance, power, commitment, expectations and faith. For onlookers it might seem text book simple, but the reality is that it’s a daily struggle to be the best possible mum.

Join SO as we celebrate motherhood today with some fab mums, many of them first-time mums who share their take on this life-changing experience…

Lorraine Seville, Singer

(mother of six-month-old Layla-Rei Thompson)

Motherhood has made my bond with God closer, as I thank him every day for choosing me to be a giver of life, and blessing me with the ultimate achievement — my daughter Layla-Rei. Motherhood has taught me to have an even greater love and appreciation for my own mother, as I now fully understand all she went through and continues to go through for my siblings and I. My respect has also grown for mothers in general, especially single mothers who are often times forced to play the role of dad too. I also see life differently — I’m wiser, definitely more aware and responsible, more appreciative and motivated, as my life embraces my daughter too. I’ve also drawn even closer to Layla-Rei’s father because it is of great importance for children to have responsible, loving parents in their lives. Plus being able to see a baby version of me… seeing some of my attributes in her brings me the greatest joy. I love dressing her up in all her pretty clothes and shoes, playing with her, teaching her and spending time with her in general. Layla-Rei is a little diva, she loves fashion, she loves laughing and dancing, and she’s already a lover of music. She’s so much fun!

Leisha Wong, freelance writer and editor

(mother of Isabella Mai Wong, 7 months)

It may sound clichéd, but when you become a mother, you really discover the meaning of unconditional, unselfish love. It’s a love that cannot really be put into words, but it carries with it such a great weight of responsibility that it can also at times feel overwhelming. Therefore, as a new mother, I have learnt the power of breathing and letting go. At first I was incredibly protective of her, I wanted to do everything myself. But I couldn’t, and letting go was an important lesson to learn. Not having any of my own family here, I survived with the help of my incredibly loving and supportive in-laws, friends, and of course my husband Brett.

I have learnt that life really is beautiful. I see the world through Bella’s eyes — I see the wonder in a pretty pink flower, the joy of raindrops, and the strange sensation of sand between your toes. I think that as a parent, you have to learn to not sweat the small stuff, but to love them.

Nothing beats that first-thing-in-the-morning smile, or the look of delight when she tasted her first mango. These are things that she will not remember, but I certainly will. When Bella came along, Brett and I became a family. It’s easy as a new parent to get totally wrapped up in your child, but it is so important to leave time not only for yourself, but also for you and your partner. Brett and I celebrated our second anniversary last week, and it’s amazing to see how far we have come, and grown, as individuals as well as a couple. I don’t think we could be such good and loving parents if we did not nurture our love for each other as well.

Imani Duncan, group marketing manager JMMB,

(mother of Aidan Noah Duncan Price, two months, one week)

I have only been a mother for a short period of time but for me, I am blessed to be the mother of Aidan Price. Motherhood is just amazing, and every mom learns new lessons everyday. There’s magic in every moment and everything that he experiences, you can see the appreciation of something new on his face. Like when he goes outside his expression says ‘wow, the sky’ and it just breaks your heart. He’s a great baby, and I’ve learned to pay attention to him because if I watch his signals closely he will tell me exactly what he needs, he only cries for good reasons.

Also, babies need consistency and security, so I’ve learnt that if I doubt myself, it makes life topsy-turvy for him. The best advice has come from my sister Patricia Sutherland when she said to me, ‘You are the best mother for your baby, no matter what anyone else says. No one can be a better mother to your child than you can.’ That has really kept me grounded, especially with all the well-meaning advice and criticisms that everyone gives, it helps me remember to trust my own instincts and not doubt myself. I had read so much about the best ways to experience the miracle of pregnancy, I felt I truly had a deep appreciation for and was in awe of the process of growing and supporting Aidan for the three trimesters. Then when Aidan was born, Stephen and I watched a DVD called The Happiest Baby on the Block which gave us some great practical tips for mummies and daddies on calming and soothing your baby, and spoke about the importance of the fourth trimester — the first three months after the baby is born. The baby is introduced to the world around him with all of its noise, light, people… seemingly unending stimulation. When you think of the first three months of life like the fourth trimester, your view shifts as you think about the best ways to introduce your baby to this crazy, yet beautiful, world. So:

1) I swaddle Aidan in Muslin cloth each time he naps in the day or sleeps for the night, as that mimics being wrapped in a warm cocoon like he was in my womb (he sleeps for so much longer when we do that).

2) I wear Aidan in an Oopa sling versus carrying him. Wearing Aidy means keeping him close to me. He feels my heartbeat and the warmth of my body and is soothed by it, and almost always falls asleep once he’s in it. And as the sling is so secure, I have both my hands free to do chores, type e-mails, lunch with friends, participate in meetings etc, plus it has a pocket so that you can carry an extra diaper, pacifier, breast pads, cell phone and keys.

And another big benefit is bonding time for Daddies — I love to see Stephen in his sling with Aidy curled up in it!

Bradlee-Ann Powell, director of administrations at Delta Supply Company Ltd

(mother of Morgan Powell, seven months)

Being a mother is by far the best thing that has ever happened to me. I have learnt a number of things, but these four things stand out.

1) I have learnt the true meaning of unconditional love — there is nothing Morgan could do or say now or ever that would make me stop loving her. She is constantly in my thoughts, she affects all my decisions and makes me want to be a better person.

2) Never compare yourself to other mothers and how they raise their children. You will get a lot of advice and suggestions. You will make mistakes, and that’s ok. At the end of the day, you need to do what is best for you and your baby.

3) Having a child means that you no longer put yourself and your needs first. Sometimes it’s buying an item for Morgan instead of for myself, or sacrificing “me” time, for example missing my favourite gym class or dinner with my girlfriends, so that I get home before Morgan falls asleep. But, it’s a sacrifice that I enjoy making because spending time with her and giving her the best is very important. Plus she’s growing so fast that I don’t want to miss a moment. I now have a renewed respect for my parents and the sacrifices that they have made for me.

4) Lastly, I’ve learnt how to function on little or no sleep, before I was a mother I needed a minimum of eight hours per night. But those days are officially over (smiles).

Jennifer Dougall, Dougall Flooring

(mother of Max Alexander Dougall, five-and-a-half months)

Being a new mummy has taught me so many marvellous things! Firstly, it has solidified my belief that family is the number priority in my life and always will be. It has also taught me to not sweat the small stuff, and the importance of patience and complete selflessness. I’ve also learnt more about my own mum, and can now appreciate her in ways I couldn’t before I became a mum myself. Most importantly, being a new mummy has taught me that love is infinite and unconditional. It amazes me how my love for Max grows each day. Just when I think I couldn’t possibly love this little person anymore… I DO!!!

With every smile, teardrop, laugh and sleepless night, my love for him grows. I had no idea a love like this existed before Max! He is very curious, social, lively and he barely cries. He’s such a joy to be around, and that makes my job much easier to do. Motherhood is the best experience in the world. I had no idea it would be this amazing… I can’t remember what life was like before him, and I don’t want to.

Leanne Williams, customer service representative, Jamaica National Building Society

(mother of eight-weeks-old son Christian Hyman)

When you become a mum your life changes drastically, you stop living for yourself and suddenly your world revolves around this precious little gift from God. Becoming a mum has taught me above all patience, which is a necessity when you are a parent. I’ve also learnt that:

o Google can be your best friend or your worst enemy, and not to always get caught up on milestone timelines and Google every single thing that your baby has done.

o Breastfeeding can cure screams or wails almost instantaneously.

o Babies sure can poop!

o A sleeping child is a most beautiful thing, and that time should be greatly treasured.

o Infants grow too fast. Therefore, I cherish every second with my son, speaking and playing with him and telling him I love him every chance I get, as another important lesson I’ve learnt is that time lost can never be regained.

Nadia Jervis, corporate credit manager, PanCaribbean bank

(mother of Malik Jervis, four months)

Motherhood has taught me more than anything else in my life to be flexible. Babies continuously change their habits, and you have to change with them. Being a new mum made me I realise that you have to follow your baby’s lead but you also have to guide… striking that balance is important. You also have to recognise that your baby is an independent person with his or her own preferences. But once you figure out their cues, that initial frustration and exasperation will abate, and you will begin to truly marvel at their development.

Shelly-Ann Curran, Digicel Jamaica senior sponsorship manager

(mother of John-Maurice Curran, five months)

I just had my baby five months ago and he is my third. The truth is, every time you have a child it’s like being a new mum all over again. My first princess Asia is 12 years old, and my second child Justice is eight. Lessons on motherhood happen every day for me and they differ with each child. When I had Asia I was much ‘younger’, then Justice came along at a point in my career that was really hectic. If I were to state all the lessons I have learnt I wouldn’t have the time, and I would say I am a seasoned mum by now, but things are ‘new’ and fresh again with the latest addition to the family, my bambino John. It’s like falling in love again. However I have come up with these three really important lessons:

o Unconditional love — I always heard of it, but I never really felt it until I met Asia, and I rediscovered it twice after that with Justice and John.

o Being selfless — having a child immediately puts lots of demands on your life, and I had to learn to become selfless to be a good mum. Asia will tell you I’m the coolest mum ever (laughs).

o Have faith — as a mum, you tend to worry about everything from the day you find out you’re pregnant to the day you have the baby. From selecting the right sitter and the right schools, to hoping they choose the right spouse when they get to that stage. But you absolutely can’t worry about everything and be a stable mum. Children need stability, so you need to be able to trust that despite all your concerns, all will be well.

Nadia Frampton, owner, Avedon beauty salon

(mother of three-month-old Micah Richards)

Motherhood has to date been my biggest challenge, and my greatest joy. Nothing prepares you for the overwhelming and consuming love you feel for this little person who is responsible for your tears, your laughter, your heightened anxieties, your loss of independence and your euphoria. Being a new mum has mellowed me, taught me tolerance, examined my patience and reconfirmed my belief that “God is awesome”. It has taught me that it is a privilege to be a mother, and that no matter how tired, overwhelmed, confused or afraid I may be, I have to trust my instincts. Knowing that it is a huge responsibility to nurture, protect, love, guide and foster spiritual growth is something that I take seriously and am passionate about. And Micah is such a good girl, she’s beautiful — a smiling, happy baby at all times. The minute I call her name, she’s all smiles, and her eyes follow me around the room at every turn. Plus her personality is very sweet, and particular, she does these cute ladylike things with her hands, so I’ve nicknamed her Lady, she is my greatest source of joy. When I think about the whole process of giving birth and worrying about what to expect, then the baby is born and completely encapsulates your whole life… and you know you’ll never be the same again.

Gail Whylie, NCB senior product manager, card services

(mother of Milann Whylie, eleven-months-old)

For me, motherhood is better the second time around, because you know what to expect, you’re more prepared and it’s far less overwhelming. So I know that another few years down the line I will be a pro (laughs). For me it’s also double the fun, the learning experience is heightened and it’s a lot of work, but the joy that motherhood brings far outweighs everything else for me. Life is now centred around the children, and that’s the biggest lesson. That’s a good thing.

Danielle Cunningham, brand manager PanCaribbean bank

(mother of Elijah Cunningham – one year, three weeks)

The most important thing I have learnt as a mother is definitely to follow my instincts. Mothers get a lot of advice, people tell you all kinds of traditional things to do that they feel is the best thing for your baby, but I find that if I watch my baby’s signals, I’ll know what to do. Before Eli, I was one of the most impatient persons you would come across and now he has taught me patience. I’ve learnt to count to 10 very quickly and think about what’s best for him (laughs). He has really taught me to relax and enjoy living. I am now more of a homebody these days, even though I’m still a bit of a socialite. I used to go out a lot and now I enjoy staying home with Eli… he’s a fun kid — very sociable, loving and already very charming with the ladies. He’s also very perceptive, and he instinctively knows when you’re feeling down to come give you a big hug and a kiss or smile with you. My Elijah is just the best!

Kyanne Jackson, surgical sales consultant, Alcon Pharmaceuticals

(mother of Zidan Chase Palmer, nine months)

I love being a mum, and I’ve learnt that my baby is a little trickster. He will act shy around others, but to us, his parents, he’s his own little man with a very serious and decisive personality. He remembers everything and everybody. It blows my mind to see him try something tomorrow that I showed him today, to think of how smart he is at this tender age. No description has ever given justice to what the experience of motherhood would be like for me, it’s absolutely amazing. We’ve been really lucky to have a baby that’s so easy to manage as well, he started sleeping through the night at eight weeks old, so sleep is no longer limited. And the most important lesson for me so far has been understanding that he is his own person, and he came here with his own personality, knowing exactly who he was, so all we need to do is help to mould him into the best person he can be. I didn’t realise that babies had personalities so early, and learning new things about my son gets more interesting every day. So I think it’s about giving him the best, working with what he already has, and trusting that I’m doing a good job at it.

Kara Anderson, creative director, Petals & Promises

(mother of Khloe-Alexi Anderson, five months)

I’ve learnt many rewarding lessons from motherhood thus far, but I would say the most important one is learning the true meaning of love and complete joy. No other feeling compares to it, no other love comes close… and just knowing that someone totally depends on you for everything… that their whole life depends on how you love and care for them is really amazing. It makes you look at everything with new eyes, and it changes your whole life.

Elizabeth James, wealth manager NCB Capital Markets

(mother of Levi Allwood, eleven months, three weeks)

As a second-time mother, you learn to become big on patience, that’s very important. Your children become the most important thing in your life, and everything that you do is geared towards them, from investing to even seemingly simple things like what you eat and when you sleep. Having children tends to define your personality, because every choice you make is attached to thinking about how it can make your children’s lives easier. I’ve also learned that motherhood seems a lot easier when you’re ready, when you’re mentally prepared to take on the challenges and the joys and everything that comes along with it. That, to me, allows mums to relish the experience even more, but it is such a great feeling that even if you’re not quite ready, you must learn to adapt and enjoy the ride just the same. For me the second time around is almost as challenging as the first, but it’s definitely worthwhile.

Kimbile Chung full-time mother of Christian Francis, five months

Christian is amazing, very pleasant and he only cries when something is wrong. He’s very determined and he’s really advanced developmentally — he wants to do everything before it’s time. He knows what he wants and he expects it to get done. Having Christian has taught me a lot. And I admit that at first, motherhood started out a bit rocky, but after I got more accustomed to the added responsibility, it was pure joy. All he does is smile and play, I know it might sound clichéd, but he is the best baby ever, and that makes life so much easier for me… he gives no trouble at all. He’s so happy. But I think one of the main lessons I’ve learnt is to have patience, because you have this little helpless person that depends on you totally, and you have to be there for them. I never knew I could actually love someone so much. I never knew I even wanted a family so much until I had him… it makes me wonder if I can manage to have other children, because my love for him is so great that it seems like it would be hard to share. I just love him so much.

Lisa McMaster-Phipps – Managing Director McMaster’s Meat Mart Ltd

Mother of four month old Rheis Elliott McMaster-Phipps. 

Motherhood is truly a great experience. Being a mother of four with the last two relatively close in age becomes an incredible balancing act — as soon as you put one down you have to pick the other up. I’ve always loved a big family and consider having my children, my own family a blessing. Motherhood is also about being healthy for my children. I learned from my earlier preganancies the importance of eating sensibly and to not eat for two. Fortunately, I’ve been able to maintain my regular eating habits which were healthy from the start. My diet includes fish, lean meats, fresh vegetables and a variety of fruits. It is, too, a positive policy to pass on to your children. Motherhood is a beautiful life-changing experience. It has been a great teacher too. I have become a more patient, compassionate person as a result of being a mother. I now have a greater understanding of delegating and prioritising my daily activities, and family time is paramount to me. Juggling, as I call it, is what I do best. I have mastered the art of multi-tasking, as managing a demanding business and taking care of four children is quite an undertaking task, but also a very rewarding one.

I have also learnt to be a fireman, figuratively, thank God. My areas of expertise now include mediating situations of sibling rivalry, misunderstandings and hurt feelings. I have even had to be a referee at times and risk my reputation of being fair. And it’s all in a day’s work. Oh boy!!! The joys of motherhood (smiles).

But, let’s get real here. I have lost some of my ‘me’ time. But being involved with and connected to my family is major for me, so I am enjoying this wonderful journey that motherhood has provided me.

Although being a mum does not come with an instructional manual, I certainly find the on-the-job training to be humbling and exhilarating. I truly go deep within myself to find the best ways to become a good mother. Hopefully, at the end of the day, I will be comfortable enough to think I did a great job. And if all else fails, I am sure my grandkids will assure me that I am a great grandmother… that usually happens anyway (smiles).

Arla Gordon

(proud mother of Zara Isabel Barbara Gordon )

On Pregnancy, Labour and Delivery

I think it’s safe to say that most mothers adore their children. We were very lucky to have gotten pregnant in what we now realise to be a very short space of time, and even though you discuss, plan and then try to get pregnant, I found that when we found out we were, a little panic set in. I was actually going to become a mummy! Then when I settled into the idea, I couldn’t wait for my belly to start showing! What I have learnt through the process of reproduction and now motherhood is, firstly, that everything parents tell you about the love you feel for your child when you become a parent is absolutely true! I enjoyed being pregnant and had a great time with my baby and my pregnant belly. And when I learnt that the baby was a girl I started feeling a deeper bond and became even more excited. I could now shop more specifically! And while I swore against pink, there were some items that were hard to resist. I was totally addicted to babycenter.com! My pregnancy was lots of fun (with the exception of having to use the bathroom a million times a day, feeling like you’re waddling through everything and having problems positioning your belly in order to get a good night’s sleep). What was to be my final visit before my original due date (August 1, 2010) turned out to be… well, my final visit. My doctor suggested an induction. Now you would think that since I would eventually deliver it would not be a problem. I was in panic mode and broke down in tears. I had to settle into it and was late for the hospital by about two hours. I would be a mummy the following day! I was trying to come to grips with actually being a mother.You can’t help thinking about your own parents. I wondered how they had done it and started zoning in on ALL the things that I had done growing up that drove my parents crazy. When Zara was born, the only thing I could think about was her health, and once we found out that all was well, I began to fully experience a joy I could never have comprehended before.

On Becoming a Mother

Every day is a lesson with motherhood. I have found that not only do I bask in the endless joy of having this little miracle, but now that both my parents are deceased — perhaps especially because of this — it is even more special, and I reflect on how they possibly did it and pull on the fantastic lessons I got from them! I am also in absolute awe of people who have several children — any thing more than two is awe-inspiring. Your child dictates just about everything. When you eat, definitely when you sleep, where you go, when you bathe… everything. You know you’re a mother when your day’s highlight is seeing your child having a healthy bowel movement! There is nothing more peaceful than seeing my baby sleep and have her hold onto me as she drifts off. I wish I could say I’ve learnt all-round patience, but I suppose that is to come. Motherhood has certainly changed my perspective. The focus is on her. I am comfortable when she’s comfortable. I’m happy knowing that she has had proper meals and has a healthy environment. I am now very thoughtful of what I watch, listen to, who she’s exposed to… everything. Her happiness and ensuring a solid future for her is all that matters. When she smiles or laughs it gives me a feeling of content knowing that I have created an environment that makes her happy. When she’s in any type of pain my heart breaks and I cry with her. As a mother, your joy truly is to see your child happy. Motherhood is a road of discovery — whether the child is biologically yours or adopted — and certainly an appreciation of how miraculous the process of creating, not just a child, but a healthy child, truly is. It is a life experience and a gift from God I would wish for everyone who is fully prepared for this wonderful sacrifice.

Every day is a lesson with motherhood. I have found that not only do I bask in the endless joy of having this little miracle, but now that both my parents are deceased — perhaps especially because of this — it is even more special, and I reflect on how they possibly did it and pull on the fantastic lessons I got from them! I am also in absolute awe of people who have several children — any thing more than two is awe-inspiring. Your child dictates just about everything. When you eat, definitely when you sleep, where you go, when you bathe… everything. You know you’re a mother when your day’s highlight is seeing your child having a healthy bowel movement! There is nothing more peaceful than seeing my baby sleep and have her hold onto me as she drifts off. I wish I could say I’ve learnt all-round patience, but I suppose that is to come. Motherhood has certainly changed my perspective. The focus is on her. I am comfortable when she’s comfortable. I’m happy knowing that she has had proper meals and has a healthy environment. I am now very thoughtful of what I watch, listen to, who she’s exposed to… everything. Her happiness and ensuring a solid future for her is all that matters. When she smiles or laughs it gives me a feeling of content knowing that I have created an environment that makes her happy. When she’s in any type of pain my heart breaks and I cry with her. As a mother, your joy truly is to see your child happy. Motherhood is a road of discovery — whether the child is biologically yours or adopted — and certainly an appreciation of how miraculous the process of creating, not just a child, but a healthy child, truly is. It is a life experience and a gift from God I would wish for everyone who is fully prepared for this wonderful sacrifice.

Natasha Francis-Levy

mother of 21/2 year old Noah Anthony Francis-Levy and six-months-old Elijah Charles Gordon Levy jokingly referred to as the “Old Testament Brothers”.

2. Yes I can love more than one child, equally: Before Eli was born, I worried that a second child would dilute my love for Noah and he’d be short changed in some way. I also worried that I wouldn’t love the baby in the same way that I loved my first child. I can tell you that your heart expands and it embraces both children.

3. It’s not about my needs… A newborn doesnt care if you’ve eaten, slept or had a bath. They need you to take care of them.

4. Pots, pans and plastic spatulas are just as fun as any store bought toy. Sometimes it’s the simplest of things that can be the most fun.

5. Children need structure and routine to guide them, but the freedom to express themselves. My husband and I have had both boys on a routine since they were very young. It works very well for us as we know that by 7:30 pm they are both in bed and we can enjoy some adult time. However, they have the freedom to interact and explore everything around them… including the dirt in the garden.

Gail Moss-Solomon

mother of 17-month-old Sierra

The lessons I have learnt are many and they are life lessons really, taught to me by women who have mothered me as well as my daughter Sierra, as I begin to see the world through her eyes. I am quickly learning that it is ok to break the rules every once in a while — life goes on even after your child gets formula and not breast milk, they miss their afternoon nap and stay up too late watching television or didn’t brush their teeth — we just have to try again tomorrow! I have also learnt that life is short and children grow very fast, so don’t save those pretty clothes and shoes for the perfect outing — every day is a special occasion in her life and it should be in mine too!

I am slowly appreciating that just because I carried a child, gave birth, nourished and protected her she is not mine to keep… only to guide and so I simply pray that I did a good enough job to keep her safe and close to me always. I am also realising that her limitless hugs kisses and total adoration are not going to last forever and so I have to make the absolute best of them right now.

I now know that although sleep deprivation is a very real form of torture a woman can still juggle life, work, husband, house and child with very little sleep. But despite that I can’t help laughing when I think of Sierra waking up at 3:15 in the morning and shouting “Mummy, Mummy, Mummy” and then issuing her orders; “Book… Read!”. The schedule of my life has changed, spontaneity now means being able to pack a diaper bag and get Sierra dressed and in the car in less than an hour and a half. Do I miss lyming with friends on a Saturday night and long lazy Sundays? Of course, but I wouldn’t change a thing! Sierra is the apple of my eye, the beat of my heart and the topic of my every dream and her many aunties adore her too, so they now come by and lyme with Sierra!

The key really is to lean on and appreciate your support group because to raise a child without the proverbial village is a bad idea, it might even be impossible!

So on that note, a very Happy Mother’s Day to my amazing mother Joline and my sister, grandmothers, aunts and friends, to Casrene and Juliet — my incredible personal village who have taught me everything I know about being a mummy and to whom I am eternally grateful!

Ayanna Kirton

Mother of two-year-old son Sahle Hynes and three-week-old daughter Imara Hynes

Motherhood: Lessons learnt

I’ve read the word, seen it written on cards, witnessed it being said in reference to others and even say it myself at 33 when I speak to or speak of my own mother, but until I heard the word ‘mummy’ from my son’s mouth, I had no idea how wonderful it felt to be called ‘mum’. It’s completely heartwarming, but also makes me stop for second to reflect on the fact that I’ve been given the responsibility to take care of two precious gifts whose well-being depends largely on me. Motherhood is the single most rewarding and frightening thing that has ever happened to me.

I learnt very early on with the birth of my first child that the enormity of the love you feel for your child is like no other.

I also learnt that this would be one experience that I could neither predict nor control, because this little being, though he undoubtedly relies on me for love, guidance and protection, is his own person.

Three weeks ago when my daughter was born, I felt equal amounts of excitement and trepidation. I was blessed with a healthy little princess, but I also worried about how it would be possible to unconditionally love another human being with the same amount of intensity that I love my son.

Then I remembered the reassuring advice that a complete stranger gave to me during my pregnancy. She said that she too wondered if it would be possible to love another child like her firstborn, but quickly discovered that she was capable of that and a whole lot more. I realised immediately that she was right — I completely adore my daughter. And although it was a bit weird for him at first, her big brother is thrilled to bits that she is around… most of the time.

I must admit that with baby number two, I have learnt very early in the game that trying to divide my time as best as I can between my two children is quite a balancing act. But I’m working on it since I have also learnt that not every cry from a newborn means they’re in immense pain. So if she’s fed, burped, dry, secure in her crib and my attention is needed elsewhere, I can let her cry for a few minutes while I tend to her brother or take a well-deserved break.

Yes, it is extremely challenging and sometimes borders on insane, but I can’t imagine another experience that could be as fulfilling as motherhood. And now that I know what it feels like to be called ‘mummy’, I can’t wait to hear my daughter say the word.

A father may turn his back on his child, brothers and sisters may become inveterate enemies, husbands may desert their wives, wives their husbands. But a mother’s love endures through all.

— Washington Irving

Make-up: Georgette ‘GiGi’ Smith (Factory 79)

Tel: 403-8864, e-mail: factory79@live.com

Clothing & Shoot Location:

Ba-bee-licious – Unit 5, 123 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10.

Tel; 924-2407, e-mail: trulybabeelicious@gmail.com

Baby shoes: Sweet Feet by Lisa Davis

(available at Ba-bee-licious boutique)

SO would also like to thank Shauna Gaye-Hart for her invaluable assistance and to wish her a Happy Mother’s Day.