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: Lizzie Paulson
Children: Theo (4 months)
Location: Weymouth, Massachusetts
Occupation: Special Education Teacher
How do you define your role as a mother?
I am a source of unconditional love and joy, I am my son's ultimate protector, and I will give him every ounce of my being to ensure he grows up feeling the extraordinary love we have for him.
Favorite memory from your first four months with Theo?
Most definitely meeting him for the very first time. They laid him on my chest and the rest is history. The best love to ever exist.
What's something about motherhood that has surprised you?
Before becoming a mother myself, there seemed to be an incredible amount of negativity around it. I’ll say it put fear in me. I often wondered, Will I be able to do it? When my son was born I promised myself (for him) that I would try to stay present, take each challenge as it comes, and instead of worrying about what’s to come or what didn’t go as planned, embrace how temporary it is and the gift that is being Theo’s mom.
You recently returned to work after maternity leave. How's that transition been?
This last week and the months and weeks leading up to going back to work have been incredibly difficult for me personally. I’d say the hardest part of motherhood so far has been the part where I have to leave my baby.
Even on our sleepiest days, when I am just exhausted, thinking I could really use a break, I am truly the happiest I have ever been, being a mother and being home with our son Theo. I’ve dreamt of being a mom since I was a little girl, maybe because I admire my own mom so much, so having that dream finally come true is just so surreal. It is the most beautiful and most challenging job on the planet. But it is truly a gift I will never take for granted.
The night before my first day back to work, I barely slept. No one prepares you for the feelings you feel, the incredible heartbreak. He is too little. Why me? Why can’t we afford for me to stay home? Who is going to hold him for his naps like I do? Will he feel abandoned? Will my milk supply go down being away from him? These were just a few of the thoughts running through my head.
Drop-off was devastating. I knew I needed the extra support so my husband took the morning off. I sobbed walking in, all the way to work, throughout the work day, and picking him up.
It’s been a week now, and while I still choke up handing him over to the most nurturing and loving teachers he has, it is becoming more normal. While I still feel heartbroken missing that time with our sweet little boy, I know he’s okay, he is safe and he is loved. And I know that I too can do this, to provide him with the extraordinary life he so deserves. While I have cherished every moment I’ve spent with Theo, time together is even more special knowing it’s limited.
When do you feel at your best as a mom?
I feel my best when my baby's tears and cries stop as soon as I hold him. Knowing I am his safe place tells me I am doing exactly what he needs me to do.
Something you want to hold onto and remember from this season of life?
When Theo comes from school, we nurse and he often falls asleep in my arms. A different kind of sleep than before, this is the kind of sleep that’s like his body taking a huge exhale the minute we are reunited. As long as he is in my arms he’s okay, and feels safe enough to sleep. I never want to forget how special our afternoons are napping in mama's arms after a long day apart.
What's something about motherhood that you wish people talked about more?
The joy of it all.
Favorite piece of advice you’ve received about motherhood?
Trust your gut!
What are three things in your motherhood starter pack?
How did you get connected with Solly?
I stumbled upon Solly on Instagram 7 years ago when searching for the perfect baby shower gift. The Solly Wrap has been my No. 1 gift to new parents ever since!
What Solly pieces(s) do you have? What's on your wishlist?
We have three Solly Wraps, a Crib Sheet, and a hand-me-down Sleeper from a friend. Crib Sheets and Sleepers are on our wishlist!
Time for a round of rapid-fire favorites…
Indulgence: Movie theater popcorn
Podcast: Good Inside with Dr. Becky
Children’s book: The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin
Mama-time activity: Working out
After bedtime snack: Chocolate
