Spring is an amazing season of creation, when new beginnings bring warmth and sunshine to our days. Nothing feels quite as new as adding a little one to the family.
Gazelle cover model Josie Barton, who is signed with West Model & Talent Management in St. Louis, shares her new mom experience. Her mommy glow is captured by Jai Mayhew Photography. Josie also graced the cover of our December 2016 edition.
What did you love about your pregnancy? There were many things I loved about pregnancy. If I had to choose, I loved going to every doctor’s appointment, because I could listen to the rhythm of my son’s heartbeat. It brought me a sense of peace and happiness. Also, it was an instant icebreaker when meeting new people! I loved the conversations that came from strangers of their experience when they were starting or expanding their family.
What do you remember about going into labor? I remember everything like it was yesterday, though certain moments stand out more than others. I was induced at 5 a.m. at Jefferson Mercy Hospital in Crystal City, Missouri. Ledger’s dad, Kane, had just worked a 12-hour night shift before we checked in that morning, so he was exhausted, to say the least. We both were filled with excitement and surrounded by family from the moment we arrived at the hospital. I was in active labor for seven hours – total. Thankfully, I only had to push for 11 minutes, and then Dr. Jacob Peyton handed me my sweet Ledger Harris. There are no words to describe the relief of holding your healthy baby in your arms after nine long months, finally meeting the face you’ve sang and talked to all that time. Kane and I were so thrilled, all we could do was smile and cry.
How has motherhood surprised you? It’s surprised me in the best ways. When I first held my son in my arms, I felt complete. It’s amazing to have felt that way, considering I loved everything about my life before becoming a mommy. Also, since entering motherhood, I strive to become a better person every day.
How has it impacted your relationship and career? If anything, my relationship with Kane has become more solid than ever. He is a wonderful support system when it comes to raising our sweet boy. We laugh and enjoy being parents every day. Ledger has brought us the happiest times of our lives. With my modeling career, I took some time off to enjoy the early moments with my family. I am currently modeling again, even more determined than before.
What has been better than you expected? The simplicity! Everyone made motherhood out to be so difficult, and that my whole life would be over, that everything I loved and wanted would no longer be an option – which is far from the truth! I personally feel like my life has just begun. I’m constantly adjusting and growing with my son, so I feel that it’s easier than everyone said. I was thankfully so blessed to have such a happy and healthy baby.
What has been harder than expected? The hardest thing for me is learning to juggle my child’s wants and needs, but also taking care of myself at the same time. Moms need an uninterrupted bubble bath sometimes, or something as simple as time to get a manicure and pedicure. Thankfully, Kane takes care of Ledger during these times when I’m desperate for a little self-pampering.
How has motherhood changed you? It’s truly changed me for the better. I see a whole new perspective when it comes to parenthood and life in general. I’ve become more patient, caring and kind. Being a parent and caring for a child 24/7 is such a selfless act of love. I’ve become more thoughtful of my actions, and strive to be the best role model for my son as I can.
What has been your best mommy moment with Ledger, so far? There isn’t one time that I value more than the rest. Every moment with him is incredibly precious to me. He has a smile that is incredibly infectious, so he seems to melt my heart daily.
How do you keep yourself centered? I try to always remind myself that not everything has to be done in one day. I do my best to always stay ahead of the chores at home, but when Ledger is fussier than usual, I don’t get everything taken care of. Knowing that tomorrow is a new day gives me relief that I have all the time in the world to get things done. When Ledger lays down for a nap is my downtime. Whether I just relax and put a face mask on, or I clean the whole house is my choice. Sometimes, just taking a breather and relaxing while he naps is what I need.
What advice do you have for new or expectant moms? If I could say anything to new or expectant mothers, it’s that there’s not a definitive guide on how to be the perfect parent. Just do your very best. Love and care for your child, try to give them everything you didn’t have when you were young. Listen to them, laugh with them, explore and pretend with them. Give them attention and affection. Everything is going to be OK. Know that motherhood has its ups and downs, but nothing is more rewarding than seeing the smile on your child’s face.
