Even though it seems like a very distant time in my life, there was a time when I went by my first name and not mommy. There was a time when kids would throw tantrums, cry spontaneously and I would look in that direction and wonder to myself why the parents were unable to control their children. Now I can, with my eyes shut, tell you if the child crying is mine. I have it down to a science. By listening to the cry I can tell you what is wrong with my kid – hunger, real pain cry, fake and pity cry, sibling rivlary or just flat out tantrum. And when other children throw fits, I no longer wonder what’s wrong with the parents – I immediately thank God that it’s not my child acting up and I send a silent prayer to that poor parent.

Before I was mom, I spent entirely too much time getting ready in the morning and my outfit always matched. I wore heels all the time and I never walked out of the house unless I checked myself in the mirror once or twice. Now I never leave the house without my backpack that is equipped with pull-ups, snacks, wipes, a few toys and I no longer carry a snazzy high end purse – instead my wallet fits nicely into the backpack. And the only thing that I check before I leave the house is to make sure no one has thrown up or spilled something on me. As for my attire – I live in yoga pants and running shorts unless I am going to work.

Before children, I would relish in nap time. I had a specific position that I would lie on the couch and that was my nap spot. I could watch television and hear every word – of course until I passed out. And if it was a weekend, there was no alarm clock – I slept at my own leisure. Now that I have become mom, I still relish in nap time because that is the only time I can hear the television. Nap time has now become a sport. I can straighten up my children’s playful mess, load the dishwasher, fold laundry, vacuum the downstairs and watch an episode of Sex in the City during nap time.

Before I was mom, I was so self absorbed. I didn’t get what life was really about and I let a lot of time pass me by. Becoming a mom has helped me become a well rounded person. I view life in a different lens and I am so much more thankful for each breath I take and the world that encompasses me.

Having children grounds your life so that you can appreciate the small things. When my daughter draws cards, for me that say I love you mommy – my heart melts. When my two-year-old runs to give me a hug and requests cuddle time, my heart grows a hundred times. I love teaching my children new things and I am overwhelmed with excitement when they have accomplished success. Becoming a mom has shown me that life is not about the stuff, it’s about making a difference and loving life – and being a mother has provided me with this beautiful opportunity.