It takes a strong woman to raise a son, and it takes an even stronger woman to raise 4 of them! This Mother’s Day we want to honor the strong women in our lives. We chatted with mumma of 4B, Julie Burgess, on her journey of motherhood and grandmotherhood.
- At what age did you become a mum? How did your life change?
I became pregnant at 24 and was 25 when Luke arrived in the world. My life changed from that moment… it was love at first sight. A love and a pride that fills you with a new found purpose. I absolutely loved becoming a parent- I’ve always loved children.
- What piece of advice would you give your pre-mum self on becoming a mum?
Try to enjoy each moment and age stage with your children at each stage of their development.
- What’s your favorite memory with all 4 boys?
Mark and I bringing the twins home from the hospital a week after their birth, with their two older brothers in the car… we had just bought a 7-seater car to fit everyone in. It was an unbelievable feeling of complete happiness and amazement at creating a family of four boys. I knew that my family was complete! I will never forget the overwhelming feeling of happiness.I remember Mark saying, “there’s still room for one more!” Haha!
- Describe motherhood in 3 words.
Love. Laughter. Happiness
- Describe grandmother-hood in 3 words.
Love. Blessing. Pride
- Which of the boys gave you the most grey hairs/tested your patience!?
No-one in particular… I’ve got lots and lots of patience!!
- What lessons did you learn from your parents that helped you raise your own children?
I think that you always remember the positives from your own upbringing so I focus on that. I was always taught to have good manners, respect my elders and to be kind to others. I remember growing up in a house with books and music. I’m sure that my boys grew up listening to a wide range of music and listening to my bedtime stories every night. I think that growing up in a household of love and affection is so important.
- The best and worst mother’s day gift you’ve received? (we won’t tell!)
Tom and George took me to Melbourne a few years ago for a special Mothers Day treat. That was such a great trip. I always love a nice card, Luke is always good with his words and his cards. Sam makes me feel like it’s Mothers Day every day, he’s very thoughtful.
- What’s on your Mother’s Day wish list this year?
Tom singing me his version of Kanye’s ‘Hey Mama!’ …. I love it when he sings it…. “It don’t have to be Mothers Day or your birthday for me to just call and say…. Hey Mama!”
