"You realise that this tiny little baby just solely relies on you for everything and it's scary, it's petrifying."
Our mums chat about the biggest changes to their lives since having kids.
From juggling work, to losing your sense of identity, to adapting to a new way of life…how did they get through it?
Marnie:When you've just given birth, it's such a shock to the system.
Steph:You realise that this tiny little baby just solely relies on you for everything and it's scary, it's petrifying.
Chelsee:I think being a parent is the hardest job in the world. I don't think you're ever prepared for the feelings that you're going to be feeling. I definitely think that people can underestimate what having a baby does to you mentally and physically, obviously.
Marnie:It's a lot to take in. It's such a dramatic change and it happens overnight, and I don't think people understand how hard that can be sometimes, so I think it's important to have a strong network of support around you.
Steph:I remember thinking,"oh my goodness, what if I don't do it right?" It's the biggest responsibility of your life and it's the little things like you lose your independence.
Marnie:Me and Casey were not very organised people. We've never really had any structure. I think that's been the biggest adjustment, not being able to just run to the shops or go out with our friends. Everything has to be planned and organised and we've had to give up a lot of our spare time for Rox, which is amazing, but it takes a lot of getting used to.
Chelsee:I do find juggling being a mum as well as working, the biggest struggle of my life. It is just really hard to find that balance. It is a struggle, but you get through it.
Steph:It's challenging in every way. You know, you're spinning all them plates. I struggled with that. It is a constant tug of war with myself. I definitely went through that stage where I'd forgotten who I was, because everything does change and who you are as a person changes, so I think it is important to have that time to get to know yourself again and figure out who you are still.
Chelsee:A lot of my friends have children the same age so we've been through it together. Being able to speak with them when they're going through the same thing, it really, really helps a lot.
Marnie:Just do what you think is right. You know what's right and to not be influenced by anyone online or any judgemental people.
Steph:We're all just doing the best we can and that's all we can do. As long as our little ones are happy, that's all that matters.
