Lapis

As I rummaged through my old closet, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of memories - my pre-mom wardrobe. The clothes that once made me feel like a confident and carefree young woman now lay before me, a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era. I couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for the person I used to be, the one who didn't have to worry about diaper changes and midnight feedings. But as I slipped into those familiar garments, I realized that I wasn't just recapturing a moment in time - I was reclaiming a part of myself. As I looked in the mirror, I saw a glimmer of the woman I used to be, the one who wasn't afraid to take risks and speak her mind. The one who didn't have to consider anyone else's opinions or needs before her own. It was a liberating feeling, one that I had almost forgotten existed. And yet, as I caught a glimpse of myself with my leg cocked up, I couldn't help but notice a hint of 'youthful' charm - a quality that I had previously associated with being a 'young woman'. But what does it mean to be a 'young woman' anyway? Is it a state of mind, a physical state, or a societal construct? As I pondered this question, I realized that it's a little bit of all three. It's the confidence that comes with youth, the energy that pulses through our veins, and the freedom to make choices without the weight of responsibility. And yet, as I've grown older and become a mother, I've come to realize that these qualities aren't exclusive to any particular age group or demographic. In fact, I've discovered that motherhood has given me a newfound sense of purpose and confidence. It's taught me to prioritize, to multitask, and to love unconditionally. And as I look in the mirror, I see a woman who is stronger, wiser, and more compassionate than the one I used to be. So, I'll take that 'youthful' charm and wear it with pride - not as a nostalgic reminder of the past, but as a badge of honor that symbolizes my growth and evolution as a woman.