i went and visited some of my old coworkers today. everyone wanted to know how it's been going for me and melbs, and, amongst all the true things i said (mostly some variation on: holy shit), i just kept saying, i can't believe everyone, who has a kid, has done this.

and i got lots of amens.

even if it's a distant memory, every mama remembers. the beginning is crazy.

and then, i believe, it continues being crazy, just in other ways that hopefully involve a little more sleep.

but i said it again and again, and i really felt it. i felt in awe of women all over the world, who have raised small humans. i have this reverence for motherhood that i only could understand once i did it myself. and i've only just begun.

so this is my small shout out:

mamas. mamas of newborns, mamas of multiples, mamas of preschoolers, mamas of teens or adults, who are mamas themselves, mamas of foster kids and adopted kids, mamas of anyone, anywhere,

you are a full blown miracle. i don't care if you breastfeed or use formula, cry it out or cosleep, carry your baby everywhere or leave them in the car seat, return to work or stay home. if you are doing your best and loving that little human, it is a lot. it's everything.

you are doing the most brave, terrifying, triumphant, challenging, demanding, selfless job in the world. you are doing it your way. you are doing it and i have the utmost respect for every body and heart that has been through this.

i am so grateful to be a part of the ranks with you. i am so grateful for all the mamas. this is my quiet song of praise: you are doing it. you are a miracle.