Hold The Moment

Five women recall the overwhelming surprise, joy and anxiety of becoming a mother for the first time.

- Tatum Keshwar, Sharon Stone, Roxy Burger, Sarah Harris, Diane Von Furstenberg

Tatum Keshwar Model and psychologist

We were on a family trip to Dubai and I was feeling a little weak, but I also had this warm, fuzzy feeling that would come over my belly from time to time. I knew that I felt different, so when I got back to SA I took a pregnancy test. I was overjoyed when I found out that we were having a baby. I always knew that I wanted to be a mom. I’ve always had a strong maternal pull. When I was younger, I exercised this on my little sister in a way that a cautious sibling does.

When I became pregnant, I knew that I was in a place that I wanted to be: I had always said that I wanted to be physically, financially and emotionally fit before becoming pregnant – and I’m happy to say that’s where I was. I was in the best shape of my life, financially stable, emotionally strong and in a loving partnership. It felt organic.

Sometimes I would burst into tears and tell my husband, Warren, “Oh my goodness, I’m going to be a mother!” I’m not certain if it was the pregnancy hormones or me processing it all, but the anticipation of experiencing something so wonderful and miraculous was exciting. And that’s precisely how every day of this journey feels, even the tiring or testing days. It may be all new and uncharted territory, but becoming a parent feels so natural and organic to me. I’ve grown from it. I’m more self-aware, operating on a different level of consciousness. I’ve realised a new depth in my capacity to love and be compassionate, and new heights of being understanding and patient – not just for my child, my partner and my family, but for everybody. This is by far the most exciting and fulfilling chapter of my life and my most favourite title.

Sharon Stone Actress and producer