Maybe I'll Shower Today

Being a new mom at any time is filled with uncertainties, but bringing a new baby into a world in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic comes with a whole new set of challenges unlike many of us seasoned parents have ever faced.

In a time when they need plenty of in-person support and comfort, these new families are in the difficult position of having to navigate the world of new parenthood with often their only assistance coming in the form of FaceTime or Zoom.

Even doctor’s appointments, a crucial part to maternal health, are being conducted virtually.

On my Facebook page, I put a call out to new parents, and asked them to share their stories in the hopes that their words would reach other new parents and inspire older ones, like myself.

I was amazed by the response, and how willing these women were to share their fears, their joys and their hopes with the Maybe I’ll Shower Today community.

In honor of Mother’s Day, I am pleased to share their incredible stories of #parentingthroughquarantine.

It’s Been A Wild Time To Have A Newborn:
Michelle’s Story

Like other moms I spoke with, Michelle’s path to motherhood left her with many obstacles to overcome. As she appreciates the amazing gift of her child, she reflects on the unique issues new moms face at this time.

Click on the image below to view Michelle’s story on Instagram.

Giving Birth In The Middle Of A Pandemic:
Rebecca’s Story

Rebecca’s journey to motherhood included an ectopic pregnancy and the discovery of a medical condition causing her to have difficulty conceiving. As if she didn’t face enough difficulties, the world had to go and throw a pandemic at her. Still, as many of us know, mothers are full of strength and that has guided Rebecca through caring for the son she loves.

Click on the image below to view Rebecca’s story on Instagram.

FaceTime Is Not The Same As Being In Person:
Sara’s Story

Sara, one of our newest moms interviewed, has only known life as a parent in quarantine. Social isolation has given her small family of three lots of time to bond, but she misses her relatives.

Click the image below to view Sara’s story on Instagram.

Missing Things She Never Thought About:
Ashlee’s Story

Ashlee had her baby before everything started shutting down, and the change has impacted her life as well as her baby’s

Click on the image below to view Ashlee’s story on Instagram.

All My Post Partum Is Virtual:
Laura’s Story

Laura set out to be a single mother, knowing how much support she would need to care for her child. Unfortunately, the spread of the new Coronavirus left her without the help she was intended.

Click the image below to view Laura’s story on Instagram.

 

Celebrating Milestones Will Be Different:
Stacey’s Story

Stacey dreamed of being a mom and had certain expectations of what her first Mother’s Day might be like. Having to adjust to this new reality has been hard.

Click on the image below to view Stacey’s story on Instagram.

If you are a new parent, I hope these stories remind you how so many out there are going through the same struggles and joys as you. If you aren’t a new parent, take a moment to appreciate all that these new mothers endure.

Whether you have one newborn or have five adult children, let’s keep all moms in our hearts.

Happy Mother’s Day!