What a nice "motherly" post, my friend! And what a great motherly journey you had.
I don't think anything can prepare us for motherhood. I've discovered over the years that there is only one word for it... AWESOMNESS!
That is what it is, from the time they put that baby in your arms for the first time.

Thank you for the invitation.

PS: Your journey is far from being over. Enjoy every moment of it!