Notes from the Anook Community - Allie

Motherhood is a transformative journey, filled with moments of immense joy, profound love, and unexpected challenges. It is a role that encompasses boundless strength, unwavering dedication, and an indescribable bond with a child. Each woman's path to motherhood is unique, and every story is worth celebrating.

In this series, we bring you an intimate collection of inspiring narratives where women from all walks of life share their personal experiences of motherhood. From the joys of pregnancy to the realities of postpartum, the triumphs and struggles of raising children, and the profound lessons learned along the way, these stories offer a glimpse into the diverse and transformative world of motherhood.

Through this series, we aim to create a space for women to connect, support, and uplift one another. We believe that by sharing our stories, we can find solace, inspiration, and empowerment. Whether you are a soon-to-be mother, a new mom navigating the early stages of parenthood, or a seasoned parent, we hope these stories resonate with you, reminding you that you are not alone on this beautiful yet challenging journey.

Have you heard the Scandinavian philosophy of, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes? Well after moving to the Pacific Northwest two years ago, I have really learned to live by this mentality and I believe it has changed my mental health for the better. Much of my day is spent sitting at the computer, working, and my body and mind see the negative effects of this. I have tried to be very aware of taking outdoor breaks, especially with the kids. Getting outside with them has been such a godsend for all of us. Whether gearing up in rainsuits and wellies and finding all the best puddles to jump in, to running around in swimsuits while the sprinklers are going off in the summer, to simply taking a 20 minute walk with the dogs, I see a marked difference in the kids and my own mental state after time outside. I am by no means an anti tv/screen time mom, and I totally love a good rainy day movie day, but I have recognized the need to set major boundaries around it for our kids or they have a much harder time regulating their systems. So here is to making memories in the great outdoors with our loved ones and reaping all the benefits mother nature has to offer. 

Xo, Allie