Marriage blessed me with another sister, and I am so very grateful for that. Jen and I have experienced a lot of wonderful moments together, but some of the best (and often most hilarious) have been on our motherhood journeys. Watching Jen become a mother was such a beautiful transition. She is a warrior mama. This is the mother who flew to Hawaii with a three week old, so she and her husband could stand by our sides as Wes and I said “I do.” She is the mom who creates the most magical holidays for her son. She gives her heart and soul to her family, and she loves on our boys like her own. Jen is always there when I need advice, or to tell someone that my kids are driving me completely bananas. It is such a pleasure to be on this motherhood journey with her, and I am honored to share her #motherhoodmademe story.

Here is Jen’s Story:

When Caitlyn asked me to reflect on this statement, I found it very simple and easy. Motherhood has made me, well, me, but so much more. Growing up, I always knew that motherhood was going to be a part of my journey. Before I became a mother I knew it was an unfulfilled part of my life. When I had my son, I became complete. We had our little family, our little miracle. 

My son has given me the strongest love I have ever known. It’s the instant, unconditional kind of love. The second he was born, this little baby had my whole heart completely, and it didn't end there. I feel like a piece of my heart is out in this world, experiencing great triumphs, happy emotions, exciting new accomplishments. But, I also feel like a piece of my heart is out in this world experiencing failures, some sadness, and insecurities. My strong love wants to protect that sweet little heart at all cost, no matter what. I love our son more than anything on this earth! 

My son has given me a strength I did not know I had. His birth didn’t go quite as planned. When he was weak, I found this powerful strength within me to protect and take care of him. At that moment I knew what it felt like to put my own needs aside for my little baby. I didn’t care if I should have been in bed healing, I didn't care if I needed to be off my feet. All that mattered was that I was with my son at all times. He gives me the strength I need to be a good mom. 

Motherhood has made me appreciate all of the experiences that come with it. It has taught me to live in the moment. My husband and I have one son and we aren't having any more; this is it, so I don't want to miss one thing. At times I feel like all of our son’s experiences are bittersweet. It’s sweet and exciting to see him experience life for the first time, but it is bittersweet because we won’t get to experience this again. So, I am the mom who goes to every school party, every field trip, room parent every year, any time I can volunteer in his class I do, every sports practice, every game, every appointment, every event. Do I go overboard? Yes. But this is my one shot at getting this right. My one shot to make it magical, meaningful, and full of love. I have one son, and I don’t want to miss one single thing. 

Motherhood has made me who I am today. I thank God everyday that He has given us our son, and we get to experience life together.