Magnificent Mama: Heather R.

Today’s Magnificent Mama is a great friend to me and an even better mama to her sons. Her incredible patience, positive outlook and faith in God are just a few of the things I admire about Heather. I seek her advice frequently and have learned so much from her these past few years. Please take a moment to learn about, and learn from today’s Magnificent Mama: Heather R.

The Mama

How many children do you have and what are their ages?

 I have two boys, ages 3 years and 6.5 months.

What do you appreciate most about your children’s personalities?

 It can be hard to appreciate it at the moment but, my 3 year old is stubborn and very headstrong, but he’s very sweet and funny. My little one is loving and funny and loves to laugh. I love watching them together! 

What is something you allowed your children to do that you swore before you never would?

Oh God, the amount if screen time my oldest child has been getting lately is ridiculous. That and he still has “mommy’s milk” for naps. I swore I’d stop once he turned 2, then that turned to 3. But here we are.

What is one thing your parents did for you that you made sure to do for your children? 

I make sure they know that nothing they can do will stop me from loving them. I may get disappointed, but I will always love them. I also make sure to read and pray with them every night, before bed. That’s a really good memory I have with my mom and I want to pass that down to them.

How has motherhood changed the way you feel about your body?

This may sound bad but, motherhood has made me dislike my body even more. I’ve always had a poor body image and even though I know my body looks the way it does because I grew 2 humans, I’m still extremely unhappy with it, and it’s even harder, now with children, to get to where I want to be.

The Woman

What are some of your passions that you have continued pursuing since your children were born?

Honestly, I haven’t been pursuing anything. I’m slowly starting to find myself again. I almost forgot who I was other than “mom.”

What is one of your passions that you gave up after becoming a mom? Do you plan to pick it up again?

Art! Oh how I miss art! I definitely plan to pick it up again and can’t wait!

The quarantine is over and the kids are asleep, where is the first place you want to go?

The spa! Mama needs some pampering!

Tell us about a book, blog, or website where you found life changing advice.

Kellymom.com! So much good information! Also, whenever I’m going through something and need some guidance, I look on the YouVersion Bible app, for a devotional that relates to what I need.

What do you like to do to relax and take care of yourself?

I like to take long, hot showers, with all the bells and whistles (shaving, body scrub, lotion) while listening to music. 

What She’s Learned

What has motherhood taught you about your own mother?

That she must have been crazy! (I’m kidding..) She birthed 5 kids and adopted 2 more. She’s truly a super hero!

What is something you have learned that you wish more mothers knew?

Kids are learning things for the first time, so be patient, be understanding, and try to help them through it. 

What do you miss most about your life before children?

I miss doing whatever I want, whenever I want.

Which quote or saying do you like to remember when life gets you down?

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

I feel like being a mother and wife has brought me closer to God. I definitely pray a lot more. Especially on those really hard days when it’s a quick cry out “God give me strength!”

You’re a Magnificent Mama! Who helped you become the woman you are today?

A little bit of everyone! I definitely lean on the women from my Bible study, my family, and friends.

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Thank you Heather R. for sharing your honesty and advice with all of us.

You truly are a Magnificent Mama, and I’m honored to be your friend.

If you would like to leave any feedback, or participate in the Magnificent Mama Interview Series, feel free to comment below or contact me.

Love,