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Remembering being a first-time mom
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Posted on May 10 2019
Exactly eight years ago today, Antonina Banes became a first-time mother, born into her new life as mom to her first-born, Maximilian.
“Maximilian was a miracle for us because for years I couldn’t conceive. As a result, his existence changed my perspective of everything.
“If I thought that I knew what love is already—from our parents, siblings, spouses, etc., after having my first baby was when I realized that a mother’s love is the most powerful feeling ever,” she said.
“I was worried, though, of spoiling him with unlimited affection. Now having a second young child on my hands, I could give as much love and affection as I can,” she added.
Rearing a baby for the first time made Banes appreciate the presence of a so-called Saipan family—a circle of moms who experienced the same or who were going through the same journey.
“That made us even closer friends than before,” she said.
Unlike many first-time mothers who experience anxiety, Banes did not go through that. But that doesn’t mean everything is a walk in the park. “Being a mom is a lot of hard work that is sometimes invisible to the eyes of others. But the happy eyes of your children is always good payback, coupled with sweet hugs and kisses. …As a mom I find myself to be more forgiving [and] generous…”
