Hello ladies. I bring to you another really enlightening and inspiring interview with an amazing lady who is an epitome of humility and friendliness. Her unassuming persona makes her one of my favorite ladies of earth. She is beautiful both inside and outside, highly cerebral, very brilliant and multi-talented. You all would agree with me that for you to be a medical doctor with a masters degree in Public health, working at the CDC(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) based in Atlanta, Georgia, is a feat only for an intelligent mind.
It was one of the scariest moments of my life. I just gave birth to a brand new human being and I had no idea how I was going to cope, survive and nurture the little one, but someone showed up to visit me at the hospital bearing gifts and providing reassurance. It was so precious and I will forever treasure that. Meet the super-mom of this week, Dr Bunmi!
What is your name?
Olubunmi Akinkugbe (Bunmi)
What is your favorite colour?
Cobalt blue
Best Food?
Fruit + Veggie Smoothies
Can you tell us about yourself?
I was born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria, the third of four girls to a college professor and high school math teacher. Needless to say studying hard and getting good grades were non-negotiable. I went on to obtain my medical degree, subsequently specialized in public health. I’m currently in public health practice, and member of the uniformed service with the U.S. Public Health Service. Outside of work I sing in my church choir; I run a ladies mentoring group called “The Sophisticated Appeal”; and recently launched “Thrive-in-the-US” – an inspirational community and career consultancy for immigrant women. Married for 15 years now to my loving and supportive husband Oluwafemi, and together we’re raising three kids.
How many kids do you have?
Three: Two boys and a girl. Interesting fact: my second and third were born on the same date three years apart.
What is your mommy mantra?
God’s grace is sufficient for me. “Everything will be okay”!
Your most craved food in pregnancy?
No special craving. Enjoyed meals prepared by others more than meals I prepared…
Hardest part of being pregnant?
Last trimester when every day felt like a week, Lol! Also, being in labor for extended periods the first two times and making very little progress. Gladly agreed to have C-sections for all 3. No regrets! Just happy and grateful to have a healthy mom and baby.
First thoughts when you first saw your baby?
Awe, Gratitude. Pregnancy and childbirth is still the greatest miracle on earth in my opinion. When an individual who didn’t exist before is formed, grows and develops. It constantly keeps me in awe of God’s greatness.
How can you describe your motherhood style?
Principled, excellence-focused, and loving-fun! Raising kids involves so many interesting phases – some are smooth sailing, some challenging, but each phase will pass and roll into the next and before you know it they’re all grown up. Just keep trusting and doing your best.
How do you balance motherhood and life generally (with career, marriage, business, etc)?
Establishing routines that make things run smoothly. Prioritizing the needful, and letting other things be, even when they seem somewhat important; if it’s not a priority it has to get in line, or let go. Taking breaks, rest, family time and vacation seriously. Getting help and assistance. Finding a support system in family and friends. God’s grace carries me through everyday, I acknowledge it always.
Can you tell us an interesting/funny experience you had as a mom?
So many of them – kids are amazingly special.
Ever since age four, my daughter always sees to it that I’m pampered – from massages, to warm blankets, juice cocktails, and love notes that brighten up my day. My boys have the funniest stories and jokes ever. They all share a special bond. So proud of them. They make my heart melt, my emotional meter has skyrocketed since I became a mom.
On a scale of one to ten, how loudly have you had to scream with your child (children) and why?
All scales. It always amazes me how my husband gives them an instruction just one time and they respond promptly, but with mommy it has to be on the second or third try!! I’ve adopted a lot of strategies to reduce screaming.
Tell us what you miss about your life before babies?
I miss perfectly organized rooms and spaces, sparkling clean rooms, and making myself a priority always. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything else – clean and healthy kids, sometimes messed up spaces, and constantly looking out for others before myself is the new normal.
What is your typical fitness routine?
Walks, dance, workouts – at home and at the gym.
What is your idea of self-care and how do you de-stress?
In order of priority: “Me” time: lounging by myself with worship music playing in the background; Retreats and vacations with my husband; Family road trips and vacation; Time away with cherished girlfriends.
Best motherhood advice?
Take it one day at a time. Trust the One whose grace is able to sustain you in your role as a mother. Get TRUSTED RELIABLE help to assist you every once a while. Plug-in to a support system (Physical or Virtual).
This interview is so loaded already with her honesty and relatable wisdom that is practicable,however, I want to emphasize two things that stood out for me.
First, is the importance of establishing routines with little ones ,as well as creating time to de-stress in whatever form you deem fit. Either through relaxing with a book, a cool music, working out, hanging out with your girlfriends. When you have established routines, it is so easy for things to fall into their natural places.
Second, is the precious gem of an advise to take the motherhood journey one day at a time. To see it as a ‘marathon’ and not a’ sprint’. Then at the end, the rewards would be bountiful.
Never forget that you are doing an awesome job as a mom and you simply ROCK!
“A mother’s happiness is like a beacon, lighting up the future but reflected also on the past in the guise of fond memories.”
