Motherhood: Sustaining Joy

As we all know, being a mom can have its ups and downs, and some days its a struggle to remember who we were before motherhood.  The key to maintaining joy as a parent has nothing to do with our children, and more to do with ourselves. I know this sounds cliché, but it's the truth.  

Here are some things I do to maintain my joy outside of being a mom (and wife):

Get a hobby

A hobby is an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation so it can be anything that brings you joy. My hobbies include running, blogging, wine & champagne tasting and listening to podcasts.

Ask for Help

As a stay-at-home mom, I used to think I did not deserve to get time off, but I soon realized this was not healthy.  I now know my when my breaking point is looming, and I will let my husband know I need help.  

Get Healthy

I make an effort to eat nutritious food and exercise daily.  On the days when I've skipped on the gym or my morning run, I try not to give myself a hard time.  I move onto my next goal which is to accomplish my 10,000 daily steps. 

Plan Me Time

I plan my me time because otherwise weekends come and go, and next thing you know I am feeling a little crazy.  Planning ahead lessens my mom guilt. Plus, it helps my husband know ahead of time, and he can plan to do something fun with Luna. 

I would love to hear what you do to sustain your joy.    

Top 5 Lessons I Learned From My Mom

Since today is throwback Thursday, and Mother's day is around the corner, I am dedicating this post to mi Mami.  If you ever find yourself wondering, where I get my loyalty, strength and sense of humor...well here She is. Here name is Dina Lopez and she is my hero.

We refer to her as the Mujer de Acero aka Woman of Steel because she has been through hell & back, survived and is still smiling! God blessed her with life and I am blessed to have her see me as a Mom. If you knew her whole story you would give her a standing ovation {I promise, but that is for a different post}.

Here are the Top 5 Lessons I have learned from my mom:

1.  Focus on the positive, even when the going gets tough.  

2.  It is okay to laugh and be silly. My mom is not a jokester per se, but she finds lots of joy in family and laughing at the little things. She is much funnier than she thinks.

3. Don't call your husband/wife by their first name. Always refer to them by a term of endearment. My parents never say each other's names. *This is one of my favorites!

4. Once you get married you have to worry about your own family because Dad, I and your brother will always be here no matter what. It is important that you put your family first. 

5. Earrings and lipstick are a must. 

 I love her so much and feel grateful to have her. I am honored to be her daughter.