Jamie Chellberg (36), Lennon (6), Ruby (4), and June (21mo)
Oak Park, IL
Jamie shares -
“ I had no idea my body was capable of carrying three healthy pregnancies and to go through all of those transformations and come out more alive. I would be lying if I said the pregnancies didn't effect my self esteem but looking back I never got out of the way and truly enjoy the process. Being a mother has taught me to love the body you're in not only for yourself but for the little ones looking up to you. It has pushed me to be the best version I can be so that my girls can know what healthy self care looks like.
The birth of Lennon was more difficult than i expected. I let fear win and it caused a long labour and delivery. The healing from a medicated birth was long and painful and paired with blistered nipples made for our first few weeks difficult.
Ruby's birth was fast and natural. I shortly realized I don't have it under control as much as I thought I did. there were a lot of tears shed from both of us. This is when isolation and loneness kicked in. often times I felt that our little family of four where stranded on a deserted island and no one could hear me scream for help. Looking back I had some postpartum depression that I was in denial about.
Junes birth was even faster. almost like visiting an old friend. Everything was familiar and just as planned. that being said, the even faster part is our reality. Its been 21 month and it has been a blink of an eye.
I know the end of our nursing journey is rapidly approaching and its so bittersweet. I have been nursing for almost six years straight and although Im ready for the next chapter, I’m sad. Nursing my three babies has been one of the greatest experiences of my life.
I want my children to know how beautiful motherhood is. To know that this portrait is full of love, joy, and beauty. For them to look back and not see my flaws but my strength and unconditional love.”