Five years ago today, I was sitting in my small, 4 room apartment in Philadelphia with a newborn Ayva. Just 7 days old, we had only gotten out of the hospital 2 days earlier. The first night, my our home was filled with people. My sister, Ayva’s godmother, and godfather all stayed the night to help me try to figure out…everything. With no bottles to clean thanks to an eager to nurse newborn, and a co-sleeping arrangement, the first night went pretty well (just one episode of tears from me.) The second night, five years ago today, we were on our own. Taking care of Ayva, and continuing the bond that we started months before, I was kind of awestruck that this little human that I had been expecting and anticipating was finally here. To this day, I’m not quite over it.
Read how single motherhood taught me to love myself
Every month, I’ll be revealing the truth about motherhood with other Mother Writers. This month, our theme was MOTHERHOOD & EXPECTATION. Follow the hashtag #NakedMoms, and check out the links below (coming soon!) from the other moms and find out which stories resonate with you the most!
Motherhood and Expectation by Laila at Only Laila
Motherhood As Told By Selfies by Thien-Kim at I’m Not The Nanny
Motherhood and Expectation by Vaneese at Mommy Works A Lot
Motherhood and Expectation by Jessica at A Parent In America
Motherhood and Expectations by Stephanie at When Crazy Meets Exhaustion
My Motherhood Journey In Photos by Joyce at Mommy Talk Show
Expecting Motherhood: The Pregnancy Principle by Makeba at MelisaSource
Jacquie Dudt-Mulzet
Friday 16th of May 2014
I adore the pic of you pregnant. Such a sweet moment of connection between you and that sweet little peanut still in the womb!
BrandiJeter
Sunday 18th of May 2014
Thank you, @jacquiedudtmulzet:disqus! That was the NIGHT BEFORE she was born. I was so ready!
Joyce Brewer
Thursday 15th of May 2014
Isn't it hard to believe how we used to have ALL the control when this little people were inside us? Now that they're out, we bend to their whims and needs. A.J. is my boss. Just like Ayva is yours. And there's no better job in the world! Love her newborn photos.
BrandiJeter
Sunday 18th of May 2014
So true, @joycebrewer:disqus. She runs this. HAHA!
Summer Len Davis
Thursday 15th of May 2014
What a beautiful baby she was! I love your expressions in each photo. You look sullen and terrified but so in love. I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one who had crying fits when she was left alone with her new baby.
BrandiJeter
Sunday 18th of May 2014
@summerlendavis:disqus Definitely terrified, but goodness, what a rush to hold that baby in my arms...finally!
MELISASource
Thursday 15th of May 2014
Such a beautiful expression. The first few nights at home with the firstborn child are very memorable moments!
BrandiJeter
Sunday 18th of May 2014
They really are, @MELISASource:disqus. I don't think I'll ever forget them!
Laila
Wednesday 14th of May 2014
<3 LOVE your belly photo!
I remember when I brought BB home. It was just me and him, so many memories of "make it work!" LOL
BrandiJeter
Sunday 18th of May 2014
Thank you, @disqus_maMio09mJA:disqus. YES! That was the feeling, "Make it work". No other option!