Our favorite thing about Solly Baby is you—the community of moms and dads doing the beautiful, messy, important work of raising little ones. In our weekly Full Heart Series, we're sharing stories from our Solly Community that resonate, inspire, and remind us we're never alone. Join us as we savor these everyday moments that leave our hearts full.
Let's start with a quick introduction. Tell us the facts.
Name: Brooke Rich
Children: Sage (2 years) and Paxton (10 weeks)
Location: Costa Mesa, CA
Occupation: Graphic Designer
Tell us about your journey to motherhood.
I got pregnant with my daughter Sage in June 2021, and gave birth to her at 26 weeks in November 2021. It was really difficult having such a premature baby and navigating being a medical mom while also navigating being a first-time mom. Sage has come so far and is totally thriving now. When I had my son, Paxton, I went full term with no complications and had a beautiful birth experience. Two completely different stories, but they have molded and shaped me in so many ways in my motherhood journey.
Would you share a little more about your NICU experience?
When Sage was born, she was rushed immediately to the NICU to save her life. She was severely underdeveloped and spent 92 days in the NICU where she had a ventilator, blood transfusions, PICC lines, X-rays, and more. She battled two major infections that almost took her life and fought every day to stay alive.
The NICU is so scary and heartbreaking. Nothing hurts more than being separated from your baby for so long, having to ask to hold her, having to watch her struggle to breathe and to live. We spent Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day in the hospital and it was emotionally taxing.
After three long months, Sage came home. She was still on oxygen at that point, but it was the best feeling in the world to have our baby home with us. In the three years since, she’s had numerous appointments, therapies, and follow-ups, but she is THRIVING! She has worked so hard to be where she is today and to hit milestones, and we are so grateful and proud despite the hardship she has faced.
What’s a time in the last week when your heart has felt full?
Watching my daughter love on her new brother.
Let's talk motherhood:
How do you define your role as a mother?
Someone who is a safe haven for my children. That will do the work internally to be emotionally and mentally healthy so that my children can be. One that will always give unconditional love. That no matter their age they can come to me, that will support them, and be their biggest cheerleader all of their lives.
What's something about motherhood that you wish people talked about more?
I think how to find balance in motherhood. It’s been something I’ve struggled with as I find ways to take care of myself while being a mom.
Something about motherhood that has surprised you?
You truly can live off of little sleep, lol.
Three things in your motherhood starter pack?
When do you feel at your best as a mom?
When I see my kids thriving and loving on me. Whether it’s a sweet smile, a long hug, holding hands, or a cute giggle, it melts my world and makes me feel the best.
First place you took your baby other than the pediatrician’s office?
IKEA!
What has your fourth trimester with baby No. 2 been like?
It’s honestly been healing in so many ways for me. I never had this with my first daughter (being at home), so it’s been amazing to wear him around the house, have my family meet him, and just have a healthy experience. I’m for sure adjusting to having two and that’s been hard, but overall really grateful.
Something you loved to do before baby that you'd like to start up again?
I love to be creative. Painting, drawing, designing, and curating are all things I love, and eventually will pick back up again!
Favorite piece of advice you’ve received about motherhood?
Your emotional health is vital to your children’s growth and health.
What Solly pieces(s) do you have? What's on your wishlist?
I have three wraps, two sleepers, and a swaddle! I have been eyeing a Solly Dolly for my daughter’s dolls and a few more sleepers for my little buddy (I love the powder blue color).
Now for a round of rapid-fire favorites…
Indulgence: I love a good piece of cake
Podcast: Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Children’s book: The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be by Joanna Gaines
Mama-time activity: Painting, creating, reading, or a nice bath
After bedtime snack: Burrata with bread
