“Mommin’ Ain’t Easy,” the moment I read that part of Connie’s motherhood journey, she became a mom after my own heart. She’s 110% right. Motherhood is not easy, but it’s satisfying, rewarding and just makes you feel good. Constance is another Brown Mama from Pittsburgh who has taken on the motherhood challenge full throttle. Not only is she a 9 to 5 and still alive mother to her own children, but in her line of work she helps other mom’s realize the vast opportunities available to them through perfecting their parenting skills. Here’s Connie! LOL
1. What makes you a #GoodMama?
Accepting that I am not a perfect mother and that I do not have perfect children makes me a #goodmama. Striving for perfection makes it hard to deal with the inevitable unpredictability of life. Instead of trying to be perfect I have learned to cope with whatever life brings.
Connie’s children Amara, 11, and Zaria, 1
2. How do your feelings about motherhood differ now compared to when you first gave birth?
I became a mother at 19. I had my first daughter the summer before my junior year in college. At that the time I was focused on completing my education, keeping a roof over me and my child’s head, and securing employment. Although I was a hands-on mom I was not a lovey dovey mom. I spent more time working towards getting ahead than on hugs, kisses, and singing songs with my child. Now at 30 I am able to successfully balance working full time and being a super mom to my children. I make sure that each night we spend time together as a family. We share an evening meal followed by some TV time, a Wii game, or simple conversation. I understand now that the work I do within my home matters more to my children than the work I do outside of the home.
Connie’s bonus son, AJ
3. What advice would you give to a new mom?
Relax. Parenting can consume your life. Always make time for yourself. Continue to do the activities that you enjoyed before you became a parent. My children are a big part of my life, but my children are not my life.4. Name one thing America would be surprised to know about Brown Mamas?
We are just like every other mother. We bake cookies, we join the PTA, and we kiss boo boos
5. Name one of your proudest mommy moments?
Recently my daughter was part of the ensemble cast for her school’s production of “Cinderella Kids.” She attended every practice at school and also practiced at home. Although her part was small she put a lot of effort into and it showed on that stage. I am proud of her because she has the guts to put herself out there and participate in activities that I was too nervous to do when I was a child.6. What is the number one lesson you learned from motherhood?
“Mommin Ain’t Easy”. Parenting is the hardest job I have ever had. It is a 24 hour job with no vacation or sick days.