I had no idea how much criticism I would face after having a plus-size pregnancy and now a plus-size postpartum body. Since there are so many conflicting views on Instagram about parenthood and postpartum bodies, I thought it would be a good idea to convey some encouragement to new moms in those little squares.

When it comes to motherhood, you’ll encounter a wide range of emotions, from overwhelming to exhilarating. As frightening as it can be, we’re all gorgeous, even while we’re dealing with our postpartum bodies and our minute-by-minute emotions. And I’m trying to serve as a daily reminder of this truth.

Here are a couple of my favorite Instagram moments to brighten your day.

Credits: bored panda More info: Instagram

It’s okay to set a big goal, even if it seems far away

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay to need a moment, that one minute to take a deep breath

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay that you don’t have the “perfect” body, you’re still a beautiful mama

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay that you don’t know which stretch marks came from your pregnancy, you’re still strong as a mother

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay if you just want to be represented, we deserve representation too

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay that your current season isn’t as tough as another mama, your struggle is still hard

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay that you haven’t mastered balancing mom life with exercise, I miss days too

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay if you breastfed or bottle fed, you did the best you could

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

It’s okay to post a postpartum belly photo, even if it’s more than just loose skin

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone

And at the end of the day, it’s okay to laugh about it, sometimes laughter is the best medicine

Here Are 10 Photos Of Me And My Child That Show That Postpartum Bodies And Experiences Are Different To Everyone