Joys of Motherhood

I feel like I prepared for the worst as I became a mother. I heard about the long nights, the post partum, the dirty diapers, the crying and crying, the pain of nursing, and the major responsibility of having a child. I tried to be prepared in every way for the "trying times" ahead.
However, much to the contrary (and to my surprise) motherhood has brought me more joy than I thought possible. I do understand that every woman has a different experience and a very different baby. My experience might only be because I had an easy recovery and a very easy "textbook" baby who responded exactly the way the books told me he would.
I wanted to give the shout out to others who may be thinking about having a baby: Being a mother is JOYFUL.
The rewards of a smile or laugh are indescribable. Watching a baby learn and discover is exciting and encouraging. (I also realize that I may feel this because I am a teacher and I get joy out of watching kids learn and grow, but doesn't everyone?) The first time Jackson discovered how to splash in his bath I was filled with such satisfaction and happiness.

Listening to him laugh, sing, coo or smile "with his whole body"- especially when his eyes light up,fills my heart. Even his tears and crying are "cute". My fears of being bored or feeling unfulfilled have never occurred. I love being a mother. I think the rewards are greater than I imagined. I recommend it to anyone! I give tribute to Jackson for making my transition into motherhood so easy and so fun!

I feel like I know why the church teaches so strongly about fulfilling our roles in our family. I know that being a mother was a part of my nature that I didn't even know was there. I feel being a wife and a mother is helping me to reach my divine potential more than anything else I have tried in life. I thank Heavenly Father for the knowledge of the importance of families in this life.