Liberty Pfeil (29 - she/her) and Leyawiin (3)
Austin, TX {Virtual session captured via CLOS}
Liberty is a repeat participant. You can view her previous image and story in our archives.
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
I hate that my stretch marks are asymmetrical, and sometimes I miss my pre-baby breasts. But my body is a goddess, and I have been home to a wonderful little human. We are nursing strong at 3 years and 2 months and there's a power there that you can't describe. My child loves my soft body; what else really matters?
What was your postpartum experience?
Postpartum, while far from 'easy', was easy for ME. I had 3 partners (I am polyamorous), a partners partner, a midwife, and a lactation consultant all in my corner. I was able to rest, bond, shower, eat, and everything new parents SHOULD have. I know that's a privilege, and fully affected my appreciation of how much care and love I received.
What is your truth that you'd pass along to your former self, or a new parent?
I am soft and strong and everything in-between. I am not my mother, and I'm reminded of that every time my child calls my name and smiles at me. This is hard, and beautiful, and it being hard doesn't mean you're bad at it.
How has your (pregnancy/birth/postpartum/parenting) been affected by COVID-19?
Covid quarantine made some parents of parenting easier, and others harder. My partner, Robert, that never raised children of his own, has been a fantastic father and we are hoping for a child of our own. My ex husband and I got divorced at the beginning of 2021, because of many many things, covid being one of them. We split before we could no longer be in the same room, for Leyas sake. It has been a roller coaster, but a good one.
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
I am taking back some independence I lost in my marriage. I am celebrating 3 years of nursing my little one and the start of a new me.