My Motherhood Journey: Overcoming My Fears

I’m so excited to be part of this community. Since this is my first post, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share a little bit of my journey into motherhood.

I’m Vanessa and, ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a girl mom… Before my mom passed away, she would speak to me about my future baby girl and she even gifted me a couple of heirlooms.

I got married in 2004, but my job as a travel editor kept me on the go. When I was promoted to editorial and creative director, I worked long hours, managing projects and meeting deadlines. I oversaw a large staff, worked on hundreds of publications, had a successful career and a good marriage. Even though I always wanted to be a mom, I was scared. Scared of losing the freedom I had, scared of not being able to enjoy life, scared that I wouldn’t know what the heck I was doing, scared that I wouldn’t be a good mom.

My Greatest Blessing

My hubby and I were married for 7 years before we had our first child. And although I was still scared, I was 35 and I knew my biological clock was ticking… Being pregnant was terrifying and exciting at the same time. I remember how thrilled I was to find out we were having a girl! When Grace was born, she was perfect and I instantly fell in love. All of a sudden, those fears melted away and it all came to me naturally. It didn’t matter whether I had to miss a deadline or a work trip because I had this beautiful bundle of joy in my arms and she was my top priority. Two and a half years later, Gianna was born. My heart was about to explode and I couldn’t imagine a greater blessing.

Becoming a Mompreneur

My maternity leave ended and I returned to work, but many changes had taken place and the stress was unreal. After more than 13 years, the job I once loved going to every morning became something I dreaded. With the encouragement and support of my husband, I was able to leave and start my own company, Bits & Pieces Media.

Being a “mompreneur” is hard work, but it’s so worth it. I get to partner with amazing clients to launch editorial and creative projects, but I also have the flexibility to go to my daughters’ school events and cheer them on when they need me. I always say there is no such thing as the seemingly unattainable (insert unicorn pic here) work/life balance, but I try my best to prioritize my schedule so that I can be successful at work and still be present for the two most important little people in my life. Some days I get it right.

What’s YOUR secret weapon when it comes to juggling family and work? I’d love to hear your thoughts.