The days are long but the years are short | Calgary family photographers

“The days are long but the years are short.” – Gretchen Rubin

I often say this, in reference to my own family life, so it’s no surprise that other mothers share the same sentiment.

Motherhood is – at times – a challenge…but oh so rewarding. Here are a few words from Nicole about her own journey through motherhood with this beautiful family.

“Ever since I was very young, I dreamed of having a family of my own to cherish.

I imagined that being a mother would complete the longing in my heart. Many years would pass, along with heartache and loss, before God felt the time had come to gift us with our beloved Reese and later our precious Bryer.

Although motherhood was not at all what I had glamorized it to be, it offered so much more, if I was willing to accept it. A chance to face the real me, the me I preferred to hide away.

It allowed me to acknowledge my wounds from life and the unhelpful ways I had developed as a means to cope. Having babies gave me the choice to heal and grow stronger.

Being blessed with my long-awaited family did not complete me as I thought it would. Instead, I have developed self-awareness. Rather than striving for perfection, I choose acceptance.

I accept that I am a mix of vulnerability and strength with a strong will to control, but I also surrender to what is. I am fierce with love and soft in my embrace…and so, so flawed…but determined to magnify love.

Although the days are long and at times impossible, the years really are short.

So grow, and glow, my lovely girls, the adventure of life awaits you in all its wonder. I can’t help but take lots of pictures and cement each memory in my heart and mind…as messy as things seem to be at times.

Thank you so much, Kate, for your talented eye and ability to capture our family, just as we really are.” – Nicole

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