Birmingham
I came to Birmingham in 2001 as a college freshman at the University of Alabama in Birmingham (UAB). I remember thinking how loud and fast paced the city was compared to my hometown. The student life experience at UAB offered me a melting pot of diversity and culture. Living on campus, I met and got to know people from all over the globe. I am grateful that I was afforded a front row seat to the world stage right in the Southside of Birmingham.
There is extensive variety in the communities of the greater Birmingham area. I have been here 20 years, yet there is so much I have not explored. I enjoy learning about the city and surrounding areas. It is amazing how much they constantly change. This city has a rich history, evolving present, and a promised future.
Mom
Growing up, I was the middle child and the oldest daughter. In my family that meant I also operated as second mama. As long as I can remember, I’ve had maternal instincts and looked forward to being a parent one day. When I was 20 years old I was referred to a reproductive endocrinologist. The only thing I remember from that appointment was him telling me that I would not have children naturally. He insisted I would need fertility treatments to become pregnant. I tucked that information away knowing that I was still in college and not ready for children.
Six years later, I was a married woman working in my profession when my husband and I learned surprising news. We conceived and became first time parents without medical intervention! That was over 10 years ago, and now I am blessed to be Mommy of one son and two daughters. My three pregnancies were followed by uncomplicated deliveries at Brookwood Baptist in Homewood.
Collective
We are not meant to do life alone. The individuals and groups on this life journey with me are here intentionally. Who or what I attach to is not taken lightly. Blame it on my introverted tendencies, but it usually takes me a considerable amount of time to feel comfortable making connections. When it happens, I’m all in. We have all heard how motherhood takes a village. In-person and online groups offer great opportunities to glean from others’ lived experiences. I am grateful to have mommy friends as peers and mentors. We love each other, sharpen each other, and learn from each other. Each of us serves a purpose. I have hopes of sharing and learning from Birmingham Mom Collective (BMC). BMC is such a valuable tool for mothers seeking joy, comfort, and solidarity in and around this great city.
