Meet Michelle: What’s Your Normal?

My name is Michelle, and I am a Fairfield County Mom! I am currently 36 weeks and four days pregnant with boy/girl twins. Every little day makes it closer to the end! I have been on bed rest for the past few weeks, and luckily I have been able to sleep until 8:00 a.m. – which any mom knows is sleeping in!

Today I woke up to a typical day in my household. My husband Chris was making breakfast, checking emails, and watching the news…all at the same time. My rough and tough two-year-old son Shane was galloping around our kitchen island chasing after our French bulldog Carl. Standing in the middle of this chaos, I was filled with feelings of fear and joy. First, how will I survive when two screaming babies are added to this mix – knowing the day will probably start around 4:30 a.m. Second, I wouldn’t trade my family for anything in the world.

This morning, like all other mornings, was my “normal.” Every mother has a unique situation – whether you work, stay home, have a child (or five) – your family is your “normal.” As a mother, you have to allow yourself moments to embrace both parenthood’s negative and positive sides. When you feel like your “normal” is absolutely insane, the next second, your child will come over and tug your arm to say, “I love you!” (When Shane says it, it sounds more like “Lub you!”). I am learning how to push past the moments of insanity and hang on to the moments of pure love and enjoyment.

As my family rapidly grows, so does my schedule, but I am fortunate to have many great family and friends to help out. My entire family lives in Fairfield County, and everyone is just a short drive away. Fortunately, we live in an area with wonderful resources and opportunities to connect with other moms and share experiences to give one another support.

After Shane was born, I joined a mom’s group through my doctor’s office. I was able to share my struggles with breastfeeding and lack of sleep. As a new mom, it also helped ease the constant fear of, “Am I doing this right?” Forming friendships with other women experiencing the same roller coaster of emotion gave me a confidence boost. It opened my eyes to all the wonderful places and events that occur daily in Fairfield County. Hidden among our beaches, great shopping, and amazing restaurants are many great places and activities that all moms should take advantage of.

I hope through FCMB I can share some of the experiences and knowledge I have learned along my journey as a mother and gain even more great information from you readers!

What is your “normal”?