Self-Love September: Embracing Motherhood {Part 1}

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Embracing Motherhood

From an early age, women are “taught” the importance of how we look.  From how we dress, the hairstyle we have, the makeup we wear and more.  We learn it from the media, friends, family, magazines…images in clothing stores!

Many of us have struggled with “who we once were” before having kids.  We aren’t as fit, we have stretch marks, our feet got bigger…it’s time to stop and embrace motherhood.  Our bodies have changed but WE GREW HUMANS!

Our amazing team participated in a photo shoot a few weeks ago as a way to embrace who we have become and the moms we are ever so evolving to be.  We hope that you enjoy reading their stories and are inspired to embrace who you are!  Over the next few weeks we will be sharing more of the gorgeous images captured by E. L. Hicks Photography!

 

Photos by E. L. Hicks Photgraphy
Photos by E. L. Hicks Photgraphy

Jody Drange, 36 years old; 1 child {Nolan} 72 weeks…just kidding 1 1/2

It was important to me to do this photo shoot because I work in the field of fitness and nutrition where there is pressure to maintain a certain look. Often times we look at magazines and we forget the team around them that helps them looked so polished. This shoot breaks down those barriers and lets us show all the different body types and learn to appreciate them for what they have created.

How has motherhood changed you? Trying to find a balance of what I wanted to do with my now limited time. I was used to working full time, attending meetings, being on social committees, and more. Now I have to really take a look at my time and prioritize where I’m willing to let go, so I can enjoy the time with my son. I know that this is a season that he needs a lot from me and that will change over time. I’m trying to soak up the hugs and kisses while they last!

How do you describe yourself as a mother? I am silly. I love to make this little kid smile and laugh until we are both in tears on the floor. I tend not to worry about the minor bumps and bruises as they bring learning for both of us. I am learning to be more flexible with my schedule and find the time to play instead of running all my errands in one day. I will also am the one that disciplines him and draws the line in the sand when it’s time to behave. I know that if he will respect me that he will respect his teachers and friends.

How do you describe your ‘mom bod?’ Able. That it is strong and helped grow him. That it changes, but that is OK. No matter what size is on the tag of my pants that does not define me as a person. This body has taken me many places and given me experiences that I will cherish, without being perfect.. I challenge my own thoughts about what I “should look like” as a dietitian who just had a baby. At the end of the day there is no answer, other than to accept the “mom body” I have and enjoy life!

As a mom I most proud of the role I have to influence and mold this toddler as he becomes a man. I can not wait to see him mature and become all that God intends.

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Photos by E. L. Hicks Photography
Photos by E. L. Hicks Photography

Nicole White, 31 years old, 1 child {Archer} 18 months

As a mother and an endurance athlete I am constantly amazed at what my body can do, it is forever pushing the limits. I saw this photo shoot as a chance to embrace all my body has done and will continue to do – and as a fun way to share that with my son.

The hardest transition into motherhood for me has been remembering to slow down and take it easy sometimes! I have been known to jump all in with both feet into most things I do – motherhood is just the same. I have to remind myself that it’s ok to take life at a little slower pace.

What will you tell your kids about your ‘mom bod?’ I want my kids to know that it is important to be proud of your body and all it can do. My body has ran 26 miles on foot, biked 50 miles, swam a over a mile, and lifted heavy things. It has carried a baby for nine months and then fed it! Embrace it, love it, cherish it!

I am especially proud of as a mom is my ability to embrace motherhood and that comes with it. I have amazed myself with my ability to take things as they come, roll with the punches and not get too overwhelmed by the day to day things. From the time I was pregnant, it was a natural transition for me and I have felt so at peace since becoming a mom – I love it and wouldn’t trade it for the world!

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Photo by E. L. Hicks Photography
Photo by E. L. Hicks Photography

Lisa Glowacka, 39 years old; 3 kids-Riley (11), Madison (9), Landon (6)

It was important for me to do this photo shoot because as a single-mom of 3 small (and busy) kids, it’s hard to find time for myself-even when they are with their dad!  I enjoy working out and being active but when my schedule gets hectic, it’s the first thing to be written off my schedule.  I decided earlier this year that I have to realize that what I do is just enough and not to beat myself up about how I look and how much I am able to accomplish in any given day.

How do you describe yourself as a mom? I’d like to say I’m a fun mom.  My kids love going on “mom adventures” with me.  We love to explore all the amazing places in Arizona, trying new foods and spending a lot of time together!

Having a positive body image as a mom isn’t important to me for my daughter but for my two boys too.  My oldest is going through a growth spurt and eats like there are 3 of him not just one! I want to teach them all the balance of healthy eating, being active and enjoying the delicious “bad food” every now and again is the way to go!

What is one thing you are especially proud of as a mom?  I love seeing my kids be kind to each other (it does happen sometimes!)  They help each other get ready for school, encourage each other while doing their homework and are also very helpful around the house.  They are also really funny.  I know every mom thinks their kids are hysterical but I love their little senses of humor-they have an amazing way of making me laugh and putting a smile on my face, even during those times I don’t think I can.

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Check back next week for more of our Embracing Motherhood series!

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