Raquel Cordaway: On Being Present as a Mom of Four

May 26, 2024

“One of the hardest things about being a mom has been realizing how much work I needed to do on myself.”

Raquel Cordaway shares how her journey through motherhood brought highs and lows, as she details the challenges she faced as a new mama in a new country. The mom of four girls reminds us that time moves so quickly, and being present for those special moments is the most important thing.

Raquel, tell us about you:

My name is Raquel and I'm a 32 year old stay at home/homeschooling mom of four girls ages 8, 7, 4 and 1. I was born in Costa Rica and moved to Northern California after getting married.

What did becoming a mom look like for you?

I became a mom when I was 23 years old and it was a big change for me. I had just gotten married recently and I was living in a different country. There were times when it all felt very challenging. Motherhood has been a very humbling and life changing experience... I look back and I feel grateful for being able to experience it.

How does Matrescence’s Mission to “mother the mother” resonate with you as a mom?

When a baby is born, so is a mother. Mothers need lots of compassion, love and nurturing so they can continue taking care of those they love. "Mother the mother" is vital.

In what ways do you find wellness in your day? Do you struggle with prioritizing it in your life?

It can be challenging to find time for yourself but it is important for your overall health. I personally enjoy doing my skincare even when I have a little audience asking me tons of questions. I also enjoy baking and working out in the mornings. Sometimes my daughters join in my workouts or do crafts while mommy gets a few minutes for herself.

What is the best advice you received about parenting and who did you get it from?

"Take it with a grain of salt". As a new mom you can feel confused with all the unsolicited advice so smile, say “thank you” and do what is best for you and your family. Follow your gut, know that there's a strong bond between a mom and her baby, and trust that.

What struggles have you encountered finding balance? How do you navigate them?

Mom guilt is a real thing. You want to spend time with your kids but also there's a million chores that need to get done. Prioritize the kids. It's a season in life that goes away very fast.

What is your favorite part of being a mom? What has been the hardest?

I love cooking and baking for my kids and seeing them enjoy the food; I love our dance parties and how all these moments that used to be so mundane, are now beautiful core memories. Motherhood has given me a sense of belonging and self confidence.

I think one of the hardest things about being a mom has been realizing how much work I needed to do on myself. Not having the support of a maternal figure has been difficult, but never once have I regretted becoming a mother. It has been truly beautiful.