'Motherhood is as motherhood does, it gives and it receives, blossoms and grows, overflows and then recedes.' These beautiful true words from our dear friend Jessica Shyba of Momma's Gone City are truly words to live by. We're so glad to have been a part of her journey over the past year - from pregnancy to motherhood for the fourth time. Jessica is inspirational in every sense of the word. Somehow with 4 kids, 2 pets, a loving husband, and a successful career as a writer and author, she still finds time for herself. But as she reveals in her latest post, the balance she's found is a choice.

'I have never gone back to the person I was before I became a mother. I’ve fully embraced the armor that comes with parenting, and the complete severance of my selfish mentality. I am at the point however, now eight years and four children into it that I am actively trying to reclaim the essence of prioritizing myself, and how it benefits my family as well as me...I’ve learned this much, that self-care is as crucial as any care we give our children.'

We understand that many moms like Jessica have a hard time putting their own needs first, even when it comes to their own health. Staying active is key for both physical and mental well-being, the perfect de-stressor in many ways. That's why we recently launched our Active collection, which Jessica looks fantastic in.

'Getting out to walk along the beach even for twenty minutes has become something of a mental and physical salvation, and it makes a big difference if I have something that I want to wear out of the house that makes me feel great while being active. Belabumbum has developed a line of active wear that is made for during and after pregnancy (with convertible waistbands that can go above or below the belly) and the tops are built to support nursing mothers accessibly. All of these points are factors in making decisions that might not be overly natural or easy so much more so. I’m much more likely to get out of the house if I feel like I am comfortably dressed and it supports my lifestyle of nursing on demand.'

Motherhood is ultimately a marathon and not a sprint. While each of us has her own journey, there is so much we can learn for the experiences of others. There's nothing more inspiring than seeing a real mom like Jessica so openly and freely chase her own happiness and live her own truth. With our #GlowOnFitMom campaign, and our line of products made to flatter you at every stage of life, we hope to be a part of your journey.

'Belabumbum makes their products with spoiling mommas at the forefront of their creative intention and it shows. Their lounge wear and active wear pieces are the perfect gift, either for a dear friend, my own mother, or even myself.'

Thanks so much to Jessica for sharing this lovely insight into her life!