Becoming the Energizer Bunny

I hope everyone had a gorgeous Christmas with lots of love and sparkle ✨ Happy New Year! As we say goodbye to 2018 and welcome yet another, new year emotions are exploding (the usual). We tend to reminisce, refresh, but also regret. I have no regrets…I’m engaged, a mama to the best boy in the world, and although my life is vastly different than it was this time last year, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am all for reminiscing and a refresh as we strut into 2019 (pull out your favorite pair of heels), but regrets are foolish. Life is too short, my darlings.

Greyson is three weeks old and he continues to inspire me. I want to remind any tired, overwhelmed mamas that a bad day doesn’t make you a bad mom. Bad days exist for everyone and can become heightened as a new, exhausted parent. We’re human and we have our moments, even as devoted mamas. Despite countless smiles, laughs, and memories, there are also times when we want to cry and scream. Days can be long, tiring, and trying, but it isn’t about the tough moments, it’s about how tough you are. I’ve become the Energizer Bunny and I want to help to inspire and motivate others…

I stay motivated, positive, and energized by doing what I love and loving what I do. I go for long walks with Greyson, which is an enjoyable, easy workout for me and it’s nice spending time outdoors with my baby. Remember to bundle your baby up and make the stroller a cozy, safe place for your kid(s) during the colder months. Fresh air is everything, though. The outdoors can cure a bad mood and stress; walking is therapeutic and one of the best ways to clear your head. Slip into a pair of sneakers and make a dedicated playlist.

As a writer and a blogger I have an outlet to get me through long nights and busy days (thank you words), but even if writing isn’t your thing, starting a journal is simple. Start writing about your day, even the struggles. You can write about whatever you’d like (even if it’s not about being a mama). Write a simple list if you aren’t able to think of anything else…make a list of current goals, cleaning/organizing endeavors, etc. You can take a break from your mommy life and write about something fun, crazy, or inspirational if you’re feeling up to it. A great way to become comfortable with writing daily is by reading. Reading and getting wrapped up in words will take you elsewhere, even if it’s just for an hour. Sometimes you need to escape and be somewhere else (mentally) for a little while and there’s nothing wrong with that.

As a new mama I nap and sleep as much as I can, but I think it’s so important to keep moving and to do as much as possible. I believe that accomplishing a lot during the day and staying motivated and moving (like the Energizer Bunny) helps to keep you feeling your best. It may be tiring being a mama, but it’s better to keep going and doing what we always did. Sleep is important, of course, but so is sticking to a normal, stable routine. I actually enjoy cleaning, organizing, and doing the same, simple tasks each day. I’ve always been a very organized, clean, and stable person. I have anxiety (always have) and I need organization in my life, especially now that I have Greyson. Add something fun to your normal, daily routine, like a day trip (with your baby), or a creative project, too. Have fun with a small home project that won’t overwhelm you, or drive somewhere beautiful.

It’s imperative not to forget about your much needed me time. I always make sure I have time at least once a month for a manicure and a pedicure, for example. Me time doesn’t have to revolve around being pampered…it can be alone time with a favorite movie and a glass of wine, or a shopping spree at your favorite store. Being a mama doesn’t mean you forget about yourself or your needs. You will have to learn to put someone else’s needs above your own, though. You may be hungry, but if your child needs food, they eat first. If you have to pee and your child needs something immediately, you better be able to hold it in. Again, motherhood is a balancing act and it’s all about multitasking and prioritizing. Your me time may have to wait until midnight or a moment when you have a little extra help, but don’t forget about you. Also, don’t feel guilty about having a drink by yourself, with your significant other, or your friends. I give you permission to unwind, mamas. Here’s to 2019…

Greyson’s Letter

Greyson, I’m excited for 2019 with you and your daddy. We’re getting married in May and I’m so happy that you’ll be there with us, because you’re our life. I know you’re just a baby, but one day you’ll understand just how much your daddy and mommy love one another. You’ll be able to see the way your daddy makes me feel and the way he cares for us. I’m a lucky woman to have him by my side and you’re the luckiest boy in the world to have him as your dad, and I always want you to grow up seeing what a true, beautiful relationship looks like.

As your mama my job is to love you, protect you, and to teach you. I will teach you many things, but one thing that I will teach you, which is immensely important is how to treat others. You’ll meet so many different types of people in your lifetime, but regardless of who you meet, remember to always be you. I want you to always be humble, sweet, and honest. I know you better than anyone, because I met you first.

You’re the light of my life and I know that you’ll be an incredible friend, brother, and partner. One of my jobs as your mama is to teach you how women deserve to be treated, and I know you’ll make someone so happy one day…you’ll make them feel lucky, loved, and grateful, just like daddy makes me feel. Everyone you meet has a story and deserves kindness, even if they are unable to show you the same level of respect. You’ll learn quickly who deserves a second chance and who you need to let go of (and stay away from). I know you’ll meet great people and friends, like the ones I have met over the years. It took me a long time to find your daddy, though. It took me twenty two years, but he was worth the wait, because he brought me you and an amazing life. My goal this year and each year to come is to take care of you and daddy and to help you become a gentleman, a fighter, and a survivor.

Life can be tough, but you’ll always be tougher. Happy New Year my love…thank you for giving me an amazing and unforgettable 2018. I wish you so much love and happiness, my beautiful boy.

Stay tuned for the next entry of The Greyson Diaries 💙 & follow me on Instagram @lizziemognoni