Whitney says that there are days as a mom when she just wants to throw in the towel. But she knows she can't, because that's not what moms do. What makes it all worth it is when your little one throws that unsolicited, "I love you," as the scoot out the door, or the huge hug around the neck as if you have been gone for days.  It's moments like these that keep your fears at bay.  

I asked Whitney to be part of a new book I'm putting together on wisdom from mothers. I'm talking to some of the moms I've worked with and asking them to share their biggest challenges and greatest lessons learned from parenthood. Their answers have been surprising, hilarious and touching. I’ve learned that all moms struggle with feeling like they aren’t good enough, even the “perfect” moms who seem to have it all together (you know who I’m talking about).

 

As someone who is single and hopes to one day have a family of her own, these insights have been really valuable. Note to single ladies: enjoy those late nights and "New Girl" binges while you can.

 

 

Whitney said that when you become a mom it's the greatest feeling in the world, but it can also be the scariest. You love this brand new baby so much it sometimes hurts. It's up to you and your spouse to nourish, give affection, wisdom, discipline, life lessons, and so many other things.

 

 

As a mom to two young girls, Whitney has learned that ALL kids are different. Her daughters, Whitney and Grace, are at two totally opposite ends of the spectrum – one loves sports and the other art – and she loves it! It’s opened her eyes to many different adventures. It's like what Lauren said – your children are going to be who God created them to be. Don't try to force them to be something they're not.

 

Whitney also said that being a mom has taught her to go with the flow. Schedules are great and necessary, but when something does not happen in "1-2-3" order it's not the end of the world.

 

Her advice for a mom-to-be is to make sure to take time for yourself.  Whether it's taking a tennis lesson, closing the door and reading a book for an hour or going to dinner with your husband. Happy moms make for happy kids and husbands!  And seriously, when mom's not happy, no one is happy!