To The Mom Who Is Questioning Herself

With all this Social Media, there is one thing that I've noticed, everything is out there to question your ability to basically be a human being. There are "Life Hacks" for everything. Pinterest has every possible way to make your house, your kids, your family, your marriage, your dinner, and your dog.... Perfect. There are articles at our fingertips that make us question ourselves every day, whether we like it or not. I just want to sit and browse through the Facebook feed and BOOM! "Are you Poisoning Your Child?!" Of course I click on it and it is someone explaining every ingredient in Mac and Cheese that is going to put my kid in a whirlwind of obesity and depression and it is MY FAULT because some days, heaven forbid, I am just too tired to make a well-balanced, every food group called-for meal.

I've also noticed, with myself, I hear and read about "Fat Bashing" "Breast Feeding Bashing" Bottle-Feeding Bashing" "Discipline Bashing" Bash bash bash bash bash... I don't question others, I question myself. So, I am pro-circumcision, does that make me a bad person? I'm pro-vaccination, does that make me a bad person? I don't vacuum my house every day, does that make me a bad person? I question myself as a mom, EVERY SINGLE DAY and the Internet makes it 100 times easier to do so. There are those moms out there whose house is spotless, nothing out of place, her 4 kids are perfectly dressed in ironed clothes, hair in place, she makes all organic meals and carries snacks every where she goes, she drives the perfect black SUV with tinted windows and has the top-of-the-line car seats for all her kids. I'm over here with snot on my shirt, putting my kid in the corner for tying a scarf around his brother and dragging him around the house, making lunch of mac & cheese, trying to get a load of laundry going so the mountain of clothes isn't SO tall, trying to turn on a show on Netflix to entertain the scarf victim while discipline the guilty party. I question myself Every. Single. Day.

How do these mom's do it perfectly?

I am the one that sees others and compares them..... to myself. I'm not keeping my house clean enough, I'm not taking my kids to the park enough, I'm not teaching my children enough. I would wake up every morning and start cleaning. Front of the house to the back.... Before breakfast and a shower. Then, I would keep cleaning. With a 6, 5, and 1 year old in the house, after I was done cleaning, I would start over again because toys would be scattered across the floor in every room.

One day, I decided I was too exhausted to deep clean my house. My kids played, I left the toys. There were dirty dishes, I left them. There was a pile of dirty laundry, I stepped over it. Around 4 PM, I decided to throw a load of laundry in, only to hear a knock at my door and a 'Hello! Just stopped by to say hi!" (My laundry room is at the back of my house) this person walked ALL THE WAY THROUGH my horribly dirty house. The first thing I did.... Apologize for a dirty house. Why!? Because I have been told from different sources that I should always have a clean house, my kid should look perfect.... Not in a diaper and cowboy boots like they were... I was so embarrassed. I couldn't even pay attention to the conversation, I tried to casually pick up toys off the floor while talking. Not that she didn't notice I have three little kids running around... No, in my head my house and life needed to be perfect. How ridiculous! What was I thinking?!

And, then I realized... Who cares?! My kids love me. That is all that matters. Some day I'm going to have a perfectly clean house with beige carpet and a manicured lawn with no trikes on lawn and chalk covering the sidewalks. I'm going to have well-balanced meals and no laundry pile. I'm not going to have my hair thrown up in a messy ponytail. I will have time and money to go to the salon regularly. I will wear make-up everyday, or more than just Sunday mornings. I will have time to sit and read a book quietly in a "reading chair", I will have a quiet conversation with my husband about his day without interruptions, I will go on dates with my husband regularly without tag-a-longs, I will be able to test that new recipe I've been dying to try, I will be able to buy that blouse that is out of my price range and not shop at Goodwill on a regular basis for all my clothes and my kids clothes, I will actually have a realistic grocery budget and not have to scrounge for meals those last 3 days before payday....

But, you know what will be missing? The tiny little giggles and "Mommy, I Love You's", The "Mommy, I want to sleep in your bed tonight" (Which is also an internet no-no.... Co-Sleeping... How dare you!), The little hands who reach up and grab yours, the funny conversations with a 3-year-old, the tiny underwear that come through the laundry that makes me giggle every time because of their size, the pillow fights, the movie nights, the grocery shopping buddies who take up the whole cart, my three sidekicks who keep me going, The kid shows that run continuously which in a way are somewhat entertaining especially when you know every answer on Super Why!.

My kids are going to grow up. They are going to graduate high school. They are going to move on and away. They will be married someday. And, my house will be clean and quiet.... And, I will want ALL of this back, even just for one day. The messy house, the dirty dishes, the Kraft mac and cheese, the co-sleepers, the poopy diapers, the little hugs.

Cherish every moment. You only get them once. Ignore all those stupid articles that make you question yourself as a mom. You are a PERFECT mom for your kids. You are doing the best you can. They love you and wouldn't want anyone else as their mom. Who cares if your house is a mess, your hair hasn't been washed in 3 days, and you know every word to every theme song to every PBS Kids show.....

You are amazing.

Enjoy the chaos!

I Understand God's Love Better Now That I'm A Parent

Growing up in church, we were taught about God's love from a young age. I heard it time and time again. But, once I became a parent and my kids began to grow and get older, it made more and more sense at His complex, unconditional, overwhelming love for me.

The moment that baby was placed on my chest, tears streamed down my face. I was filled with love for a child I had just set my eyes on. I had never met this little person but love overwhelmed me. I would do anything for this baby. I would die for this child. I would walk to the ends of the earth for this child. I lost sleep for a little human who couldn't even communicate with me. I held and rocked and sang to and loved on and snuggled this child without them even giving me a glimpse that they loved me back. The baby screamed and pooped and puked. I didn't have deep, meaningful conversations with this child, yet I loved them more than words can describe.

The same goes for God toward you. You may feel distant from God. There has been no communication, no relationship, no love on your part. But, just like you love your newborn baby, God loves you. He would do anything for you. He died for you. He walked the ends of the earth for you. He held you and rocked you and sang to you and loved you and comforted you without you even giving Him a glimpse that you loved Him back. God loves you where you are, no matter where that is. That feeling you get when you think of your child and you get the lump in your throat because you are so proud of them and you love them more than anything... God loves you more than that.

As time went on and my kids began to grow, they learned to walk. Those tiny timid steps. They would fall but I was right behind them to catch them. They fell and fell and fell but I was there the whole time. I didn't give my child one chance and then walk away from them. Oh, you didn't getting the walking thing figured out after the first try?? Too bad, I've given up on you. No. Of course not. That's not how parenting works. I sat with them and lovingly encouraged them over and over. You can do this. I am here with you. I will catch you. I will protect you. And, sure enough, after enough practice, they took those big, confident steps! And I cheered and picked them up and hugged them and we celebrated the big accomplishment.

Just as I encouraged my child and was right behind them ready to catch them when they fell, so is God. He is standing right behind you, cheering you on and when you fail or make a mistake He doesn't simply walk away. He is there to pick you up. He is there to wipe the dirt of your pants and the tears from your eyes and encourage you to try again. And again. And again. God never walks away or gives up on your because you fail. Never. Just like you would never walk away from your child.

The thing that stuck with me a lot as a parent is rules. I have rules for my children. Not to be a mean mom or to keep them from fully experiencing life, but to protect them. Don't run in the road, you will get hit. Don't touch the stove, you will get burned. Some rules are basic. But, there are some rules my kids think are over the top and don't understand. But, as a parent I know why I have these rules. It's to fully protect them. Protect them physically. Protect them emotionally. Protect them mentally. Protect the spiritually. Our home is not a crazy strict home by any means. We have lots of fun. I feed my kids ice cream in the bathtub. They play hockey in the house. But, there are rules that I have to protect those precious babies. What if they break a rule? I love them still. We work out a solution together. But, I will never leave them or not love them for making mistakes. There are always consequences for the choices you make here on earth. You lie to someone, they won't trust you anymore. You steal candy from the store, you will take money back and apologize to the owner. There will be consequences, but my love for my child will never change by the choices they make.

The same goes for God. He has rules for us. Not to make us lead boring lives. We aren't supposed to walk around like zombies not smiling or having a good time. But, these rules are to protect us. He loves us so very much, He would do anything to protect you and keep you safe. Life can be so full of wonderful things as a Christian. Some people think if you are a Christian you are boring. So not true. You can have so much fun. God just wants you to be safe, just like you strive for the safety of your own children. Just like your love for your child not changing with the mistakes they make, the same goes for our Father in Heaven. There will obviously always be consequences here on earth. You break the law, you will pay a fine or go to jail. Hopefully, you wouldn't make the same mistake again. Just like you would forgive and love your child with the mistakes they made, so does God. He forgives you and loves you for every mistake you make. He loved you so much He sent Jesus to die on the cross for you. YOU! Your sins are paid for. Your past mistakes are washed clean. Your life is white as snow. For me, the best way to thank God and honor Him for all He has done, is to follow Him. I try to follow the commands He has given. If He loves me enough to die for me, it makes it such an easy decision for me on how to live my life.


The best part of my children growing if the times when I get to really connect with them. Our relationship grows through regular conversations. They tell me their fears, likes, dislikes, worries. I help them when they come to me and talk with me. Our communication is key in our relationship as time goes on. I get to know them on a deep, personal level. I am talking to my kids all the time from the time they are infants. I want to know them. I want to understand them. I want to connect with them. And, when we communicate and learn and talk with each other, our relationship grows immensely.

God wants to connect with you. He wants to be in communication with you. He wants a relationship with you. Just like you want with your child. He wants to connect with you on a deep, personal level. He wants regular conversations with you. He wants to hear your fears, likes, dislikes, worries. He wants to hear your prayers and praises. Communicate with God. Pray. Get to know Him better. Open that bible. Connect with God. He wants a full relationship with you. Just like you want with your child.

Having children has changed the way I look at God. If I love MY children as much as I do, I can't even comprehend the love He has for me. It's overwhelming to think about. Sometimes I can't understand God's love. But, He loves us. He loves you. He wants the best for you. He holds you and comforts you and is walking with you every step of the way to protect you. He wants you to live a full and wonderful life. Not just on earth, but with Him for eternity.

You are amazing.
You are loved.
Don't ever think less of yourself.
You are a child of God.

I'm Tired Of Multitasking...

Heck, sleeping has become a multitask all in itself.

I wake up in the morning with a little face staring down at me as my alarm clock goes off. I turn the alarm off and my multitasking day starts.

There is no yawning and stretching. Staring blankly out the window figuring out what the schedule for the day is and getting ready for the day in silence and peace while sipping my hot cup of coffee along the way.

No, that was before children.

My day starts with getting the older kids up for school. There is breakfast prep, lunches to pack, kids to get dressed, shoes to tie, backpacks to fill, questions to answer, teeth to brush, hair to brush, throw my hair in a pony tail and out the door to school drop off and preschool drop off.

I put the one year old in her high chair and wheel it into the bathroom doorway so she can eat her breakfast while I shower quickly. I get dressed while convincing her to sit on her bottom and eat. I brush my teeth with a kid between my legs or pulling her away from the bathroom trash can while she pulls who knows what out of it.

I start a load of laundry before cleaning, knowing it will wash while I vacuum the floors. I am answering questions from my 4 year old while grabbing a pen from a toddler running away from me and screaming in delight from her discovery. I make meals while holding a child or having one cling to my leg.

I am folding laundry while the hamburger is frying in the pan and I have a little one yelling from the bathroom that he needs his bottom wiped. I have the door bell ringing while I'm changing a poopy diaper and the dog is chasing the kids around and someone stole someone's toy.

I am answering  my 6 year old's questions, while talking on the phone and my youngest holding her sippy cup up to me wanting it filled with more milk. I try to have adult conversations with someone at the store while I am wiping a nose and having to tie a shoe and fix an argument.

I deal with bath time and scrubbing hair while chasing a naked kid through the house carrying a wet bath toy and wiping up the floor by shimmying my feet back to the bath tub to get the rest of the kids out of the tub.

I go to sleep after everyone is asleep and I am rubbing my one year old's back while drifting off myself in a weird position in bed only to wake up 45 minutes later because someone had a nightmare or the baby needs her binkie or someone is thirsty. I am up multiple times a night, never getting a full night of sleep.

I was walking through the store the other day and saw those adult coloring books. I honestly thought to myself that it would be a fun thing to have... for half a second... Then I thought about when I would even have time to sit for 15 minutes to do something like that. Or to even have colored pencils without someone ruining them.

Yes, I'm complaining. Yes, I want all these kids. Yes, some people would love to have kids and can't. Yes, I know, "It will get better." "Things will be different someday". I've heard it all... But, today is not that day. I'm so tired of multitasking. I'm so tired of having my plate so full. Sometimes I just want 15 minutes of silence.

Silence.

No questions. No noise.

Complete silence.

I would love to be able to think again. Read a book quietly. Enjoy a full 30 minute TV show without interruptions. Have a conversation with my husband without someone needing something. Just a few minutes to myself.

I'm so tired of multitasking. Constantly having to think about doing 15 things at once.

I'm exhausted.



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The Day I Realized I Was Jealous Of My Husband

.... It's not what you think....

We all have struggles. We all have jealousies. The day I realized I was jealous of my husband change my life forever.

I have no problem being real. I don't mind talking about struggles in life. Some people try to portray that life is always good and their marriage is always sunny and perfect and their kids are always dressed amazing and they never act up and they are always satisfied every single day of their motherhood journey. But, let's be honest, that's not reality.

I would say, majority of my days I am super happy with life. But, we should never feel like we are failures when we have seasons of being down, or jealous, or exhausted, or depressed.

A while back, my husband and I were having a tough season in our marriage. It wasn't because of what either of us was doing or weren't doing, it just seemed like we weren't in sync with one another. I feel like it was mostly on my part we weren't in sync. I was over-evaluating things in our daily life and I was struggling with some of the roles in our life. And, it put a toll on our marriage.

We have 3 little ones. All very young. I stay home with them and my husband goes to work every day. I was getting frustrated with him for the smallest things and we weren't laughing as much together. We just couldn't seem to get on the same page with a lot of things and it was becoming a struggle.

Then, one day, while he was at work, I was folding laundry while the baby napped and the older ones were playing outside and it hit me.

I was jealous of my husband.

I was jealous of his life.

He goes to work every day and talks to adults. When he gets into his car to drive somewhere during his work day, he buckles himself and only himself and drives away. No other buckles to clip. If he goes out to lunch with someone for a meeting, he eats his meal in the quiet and has an adult conversation. He can sit in his office in silence for an hour without anyone interrupting his thoughts or needing him.

I am at home with 3 kids. School drop offs, cleaning all day, wiping bottoms, changing diapers, unending laundry, meals meals meals, someone is hurt, I haven't showered yet, and when I do I have a toddler staring at me and throwing a shampoo bottle at my feet.

I realized my outlook on my life and his life were very jaded. I WANT to stay home with my kids. I WANT to be able to volunteer at the school. I WANT to make the three meals a day and fold the miniature laundry. I WANT to play on the floor with my kids at 2 in the afternoon on a Wednesday and not be at an office with my kids in daycare. This is exactly what I WANT. Why in the world am I getting so jealous over what my husband has?

I don't want his job. I couldn't do his job. He has a lot more pressures at his job than mine. He misses out on the small things and big things these kiddos do during the day. I text him and send him photos and he will come home for lunch and play with them, but he is missing out. The meetings, the deadlines, the exhaustion he has that comes from his job is just as intense, or worse at times, than the pressures and exhaustion I have at home.

After this realization, I stood in front of the dryer with warm, clean clothes in my hand and prayed. Why am I thinking this way? Why in the world would I be jealous of my husband? We are a team. We are in this together. Everything we do and all the energy and effort we put into this marriage and relationship is for our family. It's for us. It's for them.

When he got home from work, we sat down and I told him what was going on. I was perfectly honest and came out saying, "I'm jealous of you. And, these are the reasons why." We talked for a long time about it. After saying the words out loud and how crazy they sounded it made me really look at my role in this marriage and household. Why would I be jealous of him? I have so many blessings every day in this home.

It helped to be honest and open with my husband about my insecurities and issues. To just come out and say it. It is something I obviously struggled with for some time and I needed to let it go. After the conversation, my husband realized some things on his part also. Helping more around the house when he gets home, being more supportive when I'm struggling. We also said, if any struggles or issues were to come about again, we would talk about them that day. Take care of the issue. Don't let it stew and build.

It's hard to face your flaws and to verbalize them and claim them. But, it was the biggest relief when I did. I was able to see things clearer and take on each day with more happiness and success.

The day I realized I was jealous of my husband was hard.

But, it made me a better person.

I could walk away from it. I claimed it. I threw it away. I moved on.

Don't get me wrong, there are still times when he comes home and tells me about his day and who he talked to and what meetings he had and I tell him about poop I cleaned up and the chaos in the house and I wish that I was able to be with adults a little more. Because, no one is perfect and we all struggle and sometimes want what the other has.

But, to really remember that we are a team in this and to remember the whole reason we are married in the first place, puts me back in reality. He is my best friend. Everything we have is ours. I love him. And, he is mine.

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Are You A Priority?

I was recently talking to my husband about priorities in life. Priorities in our personal lives, people who are a priority in our lives, and if we are a priority in other people's lives. And, we realized it came down to mostly one thing.

Time.

If you make time for it, it means something to you. It's a priority.

Of course, for most of us, the first thing that comes to mind is our daily life. Things that we prioritize daily. We don't have time to exercise, but we will sit for 2 hours in the evening and watch Netflix. (Guilty.) I will complain that I need to work out but follow the statement with, "I just don't have time." But, I can move things around my schedule to go out to eat for lunch or watch a movie in the evening.

I'm really evaluating what my priorities in my life are and why. Why am I putting so much effort in certain parts of my life and giving less attention to other parts? Habit? Comfort? Effort? Energy? Why do I make cleaning a certain part of the house a huge priority, but neglect something way more important, like going grocery shopping? I sometimes put my time and effort into a useless task and then I realize I have wasted hours of my day on one task when I could have prioritized better and gotten way more work done and felt more accomplished, and probably slept better that night.

During this same conversation with my husband, we also talked about people in our lives that are a priority. Obviously, my husband and kids are my priority. But, there are other relationships in our lives that we find as a priority. We put so much effort to keep these relationships alive and healthy. This could be friendships, relationships with family, work relationships, etc.

Have you ever felt you are putting more effort into a relationship than the other person? That they are a priority in your life, but you aren't in theirs? It's seriously a  hard pill to swallow.

If you are a priority in someone's life, they won't fit you into their schedule when it's convenient, they will move their schedule around to keep the relationship alive. If you are a priority in someone's life, they will visit you whenever they can, not constantly make you feel guilty for not visiting. All the while, not changing their lives at all to make you a priority.

There are times in life when you have to let go of these relationships. I heard the analogy of a bad, achy tooth. Once the tooth is pulled out, you run your tongue over the empty space where it once was, missing it, but once it starts healing you realize how much pain it was causing you. You will always miss it, and remember it daily, but every day you life will be easier without the toothache. Same goes for these relationships. All the effort you are putting into a relationship that is, more or less, causing you pain, is hard to separate from. But, after a while you will look back and realize how toxic this relationship was and how much hardship it was causing in your daily life.

Remember to keep others, who are important to you, a priority in your life. How much effort does it take for a 10 minute phone call or a short text saying you are thinking about them? But, also remember to evaluate those relationships in your life that seem to be way too much work. Figure out why? Is it an easy fix? Are you just not a priority in their lives? Do you need to quietly step away from the relationship and free yourself from the pain it's causing?

If it's a priority, there will be time.

If you are a priority, they will make time.

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Discouraged By The Daily Tasks

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." James 3:13

A struggle I have as a mom is the fact that some of things I have to do around the house or in life seem so minimal and worthless. My husband goes to a job every day. He brings home a paycheck every 2 weeks. Being a minister and a firefighter he has days where he does GRAND gestures. He pulls people out of mangled cars. He does CPR on a unconscious person. He meets with a homeless person and helps to find them housing and food. Big things. Things, that if you told someone, they would be sitting on the edge of their seats, listening intently.

All while I am at home taking care of three kids, putting a roast in the crock pot and doing a load of laundry.

My day sounds like it has much less worth than his.

But, humble deeds. Deeds done in humility. The small things. Those are what add up. That is how we show what our life is about.

Without the 'small' tasks you do on a daily basis, life wouldn't be the same for your family. Someone needs to do the small deeds. Life wouldn't run smooth.

I'm not pulling someone out of a wrecked car. However, letting someone ahead of me in the grocery store line who has less items than me or buying a friend a coffee and taking it to their work, or really sitting down and listening to my child's story, or taking lunch to my husband at work, or slipping a little note in my son's lunch box, or making a favorite dish for dinner without someone requesting it... These things can change someones day. It could encourage them for the entire week. Knowing that someone is thinking about them.

Be the encouragement. Know that the small things you do on a daily basis are a HUGE impact on your family, their lives, and your life. These tasks may seem minimal or worthless and you question why you do them every day. But, you will never know the positive effects it has on each one of your family members.

That load of laundry is you helping build the next generation of God's creation. Picking up those toys on the floor and setting the dinner table in the evening is just adding another brick in building God's kingdom. Each wonderful and selfless task we, as mothers, do is just another way we are bringing heaven to earth.

I pray for each of you who read this. I pray this week you will find encouragement in the small tasks each day.


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9 Things Young Moms Are Tired Of Hearing

Having 3 kids in a span of 4 years, I've heard my share of 'advice' and 'comments' from many people. Some good, some frustrating. And, there are just some things I think we, as moms with little ones, are tired of hearing. I called out to other moms to hear what they thought. The discussion was amazing. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Here is the top 9 things moms are tired of hearing.

1. The (Laundry, Cleaning, Dishes, Etc) Can Wait.

Sure.

I tried it. I took one day and didn't do much cleaning. I played with my kids. I made meals and didn't really clean them up. I figured "They could wait. My kids are only this age once." Want to know what happened?? I did laundry and cleaning and dishes for two days after trying to catch up with the things that I was now behind on. It's a cute saying. It's unrealistic. Kids are messy. There will always be something to clean, cook, and wash. Yes, I love playing with my kids. Yes, they are only this age once. But, no, some things can't wait. Otherwise, I'm busting my butt for hours on end trying to catch up.





2. Enjoy Every Moment

No.
I won't.

When my kids have spread who knows what all over the kitchen floor or they are fighting and yelling at each other or I have a toddler screaming on the grocery store floor.... No. I won't enjoy these moments. Every moment in motherhood will not be enjoyed. When I am up for the tenth night in a row with a screaming baby who desperately needs to sleep, but won't... I won't enjoy that moment. There are definitely moments to enjoy. But, sometimes I want to cry. And, I want to run away. And, I most certainly won't be enjoying it.




3. Sleep When The Baby Sleeps

When I had my first child many people told me this. I never slept when the baby slept. When he was down for his nap, or down for bed at night, that was time for ME. I got to do what I want and didn't have to tend to another human being. After the next two kids came, I had older ones who didn't nap so the logic behind the statement was crazy. When would I get anything done? Hold a baby all day and then nap? Who would take care of the house and later, all the other kids?!



4. You Look Tired.

......Thank you.....?

Throughout the years of motherhood, I have had many people say this to me. Majority of them, men. I know I'm tired. I haven't slept in 6 years. Do you not think I'm aware of this? There isn't any other thing you can say than "You Look Tired."? This one always shocks me and catches me off guard. Then, I usually check in a mirror to see how hideous I really do look because I was sure my makeup covered majority of the black circles under my eyes.




5. It Will Get Easier

Yes, but today is not that day. And, this is usually said while my child is throwing tantrum or asking a billion questions or I am struggling with something while holding a baby on my hip and trying to talk to my 4 year old. I bet it will get easier. But, in the mean time, instead of giving your advice, maybe you could just help me out.




6. Oh, You Just Wait

I have loved every stage of my child's life. Some have been harder than others. But, what exactly am I waiting for? My daughter is a cute, precious one year old. And, what am I waiting for? For when she turns 12 and talks back to me? Instead why don't just enjoy my baby's giggles with me. Just because your kid had problems at certain ages, doesn't mean mine will.




7. You've Got Your Hands Full

I have a 5 year old, a 4 year old, and a 1 year old. Yes, I'm busy. Yes, I'm aware my life is non-stop chaos. But, I'm not sure if this is a compliment or not? Instead, I think I would rather hear, "Wow! You're doing awesome. Look how well taken care of they are!" My hands full? It's sound like I can't handle my own family.




8. Boys Will Be Boys

No.

If my little boy is being disrespectful, or rude, or gross, or mean, you better believe I will not want to hear, "Well, boys will be boys." Heck no. I am raising future men. Men who will marry a woman someday and be a father. They better be respectful and courteous and have manners. There is no excuse for it.




9. You're being too hard on your kids

I'm not. Trust me.
I'm a very patient parent. But, I have high expectations for my children because I know what they can achieve. There is a time for play and fun and I time to sit still and be quiet. They better know how to act in both situations. Again, I'm raising future adults. Someday they will enter the real world and I am the one who is training them and raising them for this day.

I understand lots of things are said with good intentions and sometimes said just to fill the silence when people don't know what to say to you. But, with the age we live in being bombarded with so much information and judgement and advice it gets so frustrating and overwhelming. Give us some slack! We are doing the best we can. And, instead of saying these things, how about....

"Here is a gift card. Go to dinner. I will watch the kids."

"Here is some wine."

"You are doing amazing with these kids."

"Your kids are so lucky to have you as a mom"

"Here is a gift certificate for a massage."

.... or just smile....

To all the mom's out there, You are AWESOME. You are AMAZING. And, your kids are LUCKY to have you as their mom. You got this. Chins up ladies! Let's conquer the day!

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Hello, 2017. New Year. New Mom.

Hello, 2017. Here is to a healthier, happier, more patient, calmer me.

This year I will take care of my physical body. A healthier body means I can take care of my kids better.

This year, I will exercise more.
 I will take the time for myself and better my body. I will get out there and breathe in that fresh air. I will get my heart pumping and lungs going. I will break in those running shoes.

This year, I will eat better.
I will remember that food is fuel and not comfort or a distraction. I will eat more fresh fruits and veggies. Less junk and sugar.

This year, I will drink more water.
I will remember to carry my water bottle with me and stay hydrated. I will drink less sugary drinks.

This year, I will take care of myself mentally. A healthy mind means I will interact with my children better.

This year, I will be more patient.
I will remember my kids are still learning. I will practice patience, teaching them, by my example, at the same time.

This year, I will be calmer.
I will let more things go and not get worked up over the small things.

This year, I will worry less.
I will live in the day that is present and not worry so much about the next. I will stop worrying about what 'may' happen and the things I can't control.

This year, I will laugh more.
I will find the fun in each day and make sure to laugh with my family daily.

This year, I will give myself a break.
I will not feel guilty for taking time for myself. To have someone watch my kids and take the time to take care of me, alone.

This year, I will rest more.
I will remember that housework can sometimes wait. I will sit and relax a little more. I will try to get more hours of sleep at night. I will try to take time each day to rest.

This year, I will take care of myself spiritually. A strong connection with God makes life run smoother.

This year, I will pray more.
I will remember to go to God for my struggles and worries. I will remember to leave those with God and let Him handle it.

This year, I will thank God more.
I will remember to thank God for what I have, more often. I will give thanks to Him for all the things He has given me.

This year, I will open my bible more.
I will connect with God and His word. I will take time during the busy week to be quiet with God and reconnect with Him.


This year, is a new year. I will take care of myself more. I will relax more. I will take better care of my body. I will laugh more. I will find the beauty in the small things each day. I will be a better mom this year, by taking better care of me.

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The Things My Husband Will Never Understand

As a mom of little ones, 3 little ones, and a stay-at-home mom at that, there are things I talk to my husband about, and I realize now he will never understand.

Yes, men and women are equal. But, being a man and a woman is different. Being in the mom role and the dad role is also very different.

I wake up when the baby makes noise and that is my alarm clock. I may not have slept the night before because if one of the kids was up, I got up with them. There are times I shake my husband to wake him from sleep, but majority of the time he doesn't hear a thing and rolls over. He has the option to get up or not. I don't. It's me. If the kids need something in the night, I'm the default person to get up. Don't get me wrong, my husband will help in the night, but only if I can wake him up enough to do it. I don't have that luxury. Usually it's just easier and takes less time and energy to get up and take care of them myself. I haven't had a full night of sleep in years. I'm exhausted. But, I power through the exhaustion and keep going.

I shower quickly in the morning with a toddler in the bathroom with me. Someone is asking me questions and i am rarely alone. I get a good 5 minute shower and I dress in front of at least one child. I cover the dark circles under my eyes with some makeup to hide the exhaustion. I quickly brush my teeth and do my hair.

Then, the day begins.

The constant touching and grabbing of my legs.
The needing a drink.
Someone needs a snack.
Three meals are made.
Laundry is going in the laundry room.
The dishes.
 The cleaning.
The vacuuming.
Making beds.
Changing diapers.
Getting three kids dressed.
Cleaning the high chair multiple times a day.
The 5 year old asking questions and wanting a decent conversation.
The 4 year old needing my attention.
Getting the 1 year old down for a nap.
She didn't nap long enough. Half the laundry is folding... darn.
 Get lunch made.
Clean up lunch.
Play a game with the kids.
 Baby is clinging to my leg needing attention.
I have to go to the bathroom. 1 year old sits on the bathroom floor while another kids knocks miraculously needing something that second.
This routine again and again and again.
Start dinner.
Have the kids semi help me set the table.
Eat dinner, sort of.
Someone needs a drink. Or seconds.
I quickly eat my meal because the baby is standing in her high chair.
Get her in the bath.
Get her out of the bath.
 Get the older ones in the shower.
Get them dressed for bed.
Teeth brushed.
Get them into bed.
Someone needs a drink or one last hug.
Constant needs.
Everyone needs me.
 No time for myself.

Don't get me wrong, when my husband is home he is a huge help. He plays with the kids, he helps around the house but he leaves. And, when he leaves, he is alone. He gets to drive in his car alone. In silence if he wants. No one asking questions. When he is at work he talks to adults. He can go to lunch with an adult. Have an adult conversation. Get back in his car without buckling 3 seat belts that aren't his. He comes home to a meal made and stories about a busy day in the world of adulthood and real conversations. He plays with the kids or helps with the dishes or bath time. Always a huge help. But, there is still a kid clinging to me or needing something from me.

From the time I wake up to the time I fall asleep at night I am thinking of someone else. I rarely think of my own needs. I am up in the middle of the night taking care of other peoples needs.

My husband has said I can get out of the house. To just plan a time to get away from it all and spend a few hours alone. It sounds wonderful. But, I either take 3 kids with me or have to find someone to watch the kids and after all that planning it doesn't really seem worth it.

Being a mom is so much work. My husband will never understand the constant worry and tending to little ones on a daily and nightly basis. The small things like a luxury just to leave the house alone and know everything will be taken care of and after return there will most likely be a meal ready and everything is still how it's supposed to be.

Yes, I'm complaining. Yes, I'm tired. Yes, I'm overwhelmed.

I am a mom.

There are just some things my husband will never understand. And, when the kids are grown, I will realize that it's okay that he didn't understand it. And, life will be just fine.

But, when I am in the middle of the chaos, it's hard.

And, he will never understand.

Bring Back The Dinner Table Challenge

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with "Getting to the top", "Make more money", "Succeed!" "It's all about your success", "Work, Work, Work",  and also the constant buzzing of your phone and Facebook notifications, and games, and Instagram photos, there are times we tend to forget why we are doing what we are doing. For our family.

The chaos. The meetings. The recitals. The soccer practices. The grocery shopping. The running kids this way and that way, the distractions of our phones, the TV, the emails, Facebook, Instagram, phone calls, news instantly at our fingertips, and trying to make everything work from the time we open our eyes to the moment we lay down in bed at night.

While we are trying to do everything to make our family's lives a little easier, to make a little more money, to sneak in just one more errand, to make that one last phone call for the day, I am challenging you to this....

Slow down.

At least 3 times a week, sit down at the dinner table with your family. Set the phones in the other room. Turn off the TV. Sit at the table and have dinner together. No distractions. Take 45 minutes out of the day to pass food to each other, talk about your day, enjoy each others company, connect as a family again.

I understand. Life is hectic. There is so much going on. These days, with crazy work schedules and kids in sports and activities, there doesn't ever seem a good time to sit and eat dinner as a family. But, make time. Just attempt 3 days a week. Maybe it's not dinner. Maybe one of you works through dinnertime. Have breakfast together. Just find a time to connect with your family again.

This country seems to be falling apart. Let's not let it break our families apart. Let's come together as a family unit. Let's bring back the dinner table. Let's pray together. Eat together. Laugh together. Connect again.

Who is with me?

Let's bring back the dinner table.

Let's challenge one another to bring our family units back together. That is why we do what we do in the first place. For our kids. For our husbands. For our wives. For our family. For US.

Let's do this.

Share below. And accept the challenge.

10 Ways To Stay Sane As A Stay-At-Home Mom

I have 3 kids. I had them in a 4 year span. I currently have a 5 year old, a 4 year old and a 1 year old. I don't get much sleep, I don't have a lot of time to myself, but there are ways I try to stay sane and feel like a normal human being throughout the week, month, and year.

Yes, I know there are some days where things don't go as planned. My house is a mess, I'm a mess, the kids are a mess. But, majority of the time, I try to keep to this list and it has helped me SO MUCH!

I struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety with each child. These are things that helped me get through the dark times and kept me feeling human. I hope it helps you also.


1. GET READY FOR THE DAY
Even if you aren't going anywhere, you have no plans for the day, and you have no one coming by. Get ready for the day. Set your alarm, get up before the kids, shower, shave your legs, moisturize, put on your makeup, do your hair and get dressed just like you would be leaving to go to work or shopping. I dress just like I would be leaving the house. There is something about looking in the mirror at yourself with makeup on (Even if it's not much... I wear foundation, powder and mascara... Nothing much). But, it makes me feel human. Do your hair in the morning. You feel good if you feel like you look good. A big confidence booster right in the morning.

2. EXERCISE
Have a workout plan. Even if it's tough to do with kids. We have a walking park in our town and I've taken two kids on bikes and one kid in the stroller and did a two mile run. It was chaotic but I did it. If I'm not able to get out of the house that day, I have some DVD's that I have and I use them. I workout in the mornings and then will get ready for the day (shower, hair, makeup) after I get done. I thought my kids would hate getting outside in the early morning, but their attitudes seem better during the day also when we get out and exercise. A healthy body is a happy body.

3. EAT HEALTHY
I know the jokes are that stay-at-home moms eat chicken nuggets and gold fish all day. Which, I've had my fair share of chicken nuggets and gold fish. But, not on a regular basis. My kids will have that for lunches sometimes but I make sure I have tortillas and ingredients for a wrap or a salad. I make my kids these things too and I'm amazed at how much they enjoy wraps and salads just because they are exposed to it. Eating healthy will make you feel better. Drinking lots of water helps also. It boosts energy and helps you feel better. Eat healthy. Drink water. It will help so much!

4. MAKE THE BED
I saw this tip on different articles in the past and thought it was a joke. How would making your bed make you feel more sane and feel better during the day? Then, for a month I did it. And, I haven't stopped. I make the bed every morning. There is something about a clean slate when you walk into your room. Everything seems better. There is a calmness when bed is made. And, nothing feels better than climbing into a made bed at the end of the day. Am I right? Seriously, try it. It really does help.

5. DO A LOAD OF LAUNDRY EVERY DAY
After the kids are dressed, the hubby is off to work, and you are ready for the day, gather up all the dirty clothes around the house and throw them in the washer. Remember to move them to the dryer a while later and even if you don't get back to folding it that day, you at least have a load clean. Nothing is more frustrating than a huge pile of laundry waiting to be washed. It's so overwhelming. I've learned if I keep up with laundry, life is smoother. Plus, there is nothing worse than when someone needs a piece of clothing only to find out it's dirty. Do a load a day. Keep up with it. Fold it when possible, but at least get it washed and dried.

6. CLEAN THE KITCHEN AT NIGHT
I am exhausted by the end of the night. After 3 meals made, taking care of kids all day, and the bedtime routine, the last thing I want to do is dishes and cleaning the kitchen. I used to ignore the dishes until the next morning and I was always frustrated when I woke up the next morning with a sink of crusted over, dirty dishes in the sink. So, I push myself in the evening to do all the dishes, get them in the dishwasher or all washed in the sink and put away, counters wiped down, dinner table wiped down, floors swept and I can walk away and go to bed happy. I love waking up in the morning to start breakfast with a clean slate. It helps my sanity each day. So, power through and get that kitchen cleaned at night so you have a clean fresh area to work in the next day.

7. MAKE SURE TO GET 'ME TIME' EACH DAY
Even if it is 15 minutes scrolling through Facebook on your phone while the kids are eating a snack. Drop the to-do list and take some time for yourself. The crying and whining is draining. The constant need from each child is overwhelming at times. There are days I want to scream... or run away (Joking... but really... you know the feeling) Sometimes I get more 'me-time' the other times but I try to get at least 15 minutes each day where I am not helping someone or cleaning something. Do something for yourself.

8. HAVE AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOU EACH MONTH
If it is a hair appointment or a nail appointment, or a massage... Have that standing appointment each month. I get my hair cut every 4 weeks. I get it colored every 8 weeks. Do I NEED to do it that often? Probably not. But, I'm out of the house, away from the kids, talking to an adult for an hour. Plus, a little pampering goes a long way. I make sure at the end of my appointment to schedule another appointment for 4 weeks out. And, I look forward to it every month. It reminds me I'm not just a mom. I'm a woman. And I feel better about myself when I come home. Make that appointment each month. Pamper yourself. Get that massage. Get your nails done. Get your hair done. Do it for you. EVERY. MONTH.

9. PLAN A DATE NIGHT
This may sound backwards. Isn't the guy supposed to plan the dates? Yes. Maybe. But, it doesn't have to be that way. Call a babysitter, get it set up a week ahead and make some dinner reservations. Find a movie to go to. Find a fun event that is going on. Plan it. Sometimes planning it is the fun part. Get out with your fella for a few hours and remind yourselves why you are on this crazy rollercoaster called parenting together in the first place.... Because you LOVE EACH OTHER. Get out every other week or so. It doesn't have to be big or fancy. Go for a walk. Go for a drive. Sit by a pond and talk. No matter what it is, get out and spend some alone time with your husband.

10. PLAN A PROJECT... AND COMPLETE IT
This one sounds weird. But, seriously. There are things that I say I'm going to do and I never get them done. Paint the bedroom. Get my photos printed and in photo albums. Make a baby blanket for a friends baby shower. Things like that. I say I want to do them and most of the time I think I'm too busy and never get them finished... or even started. But, I figure if I can get one done each month I feel satisfied and accomplished. Do it when you have a little time here and there and if possible, get the kids involved. They might enjoy it also. But make a list of projects you want to get done and DO them.

This list has helped me a lot throughout my mommy years. There are times when I feel like I'm going crazy, or when everything is a mess and we have cereal for dinner. But, remember tomorrow is a new day. Try to get up the next day with a fresh mind and soul. Your kids love you and need you. They want the best mommy. So, remember to do some things for YOU to make sure you are a happier, healthier mommy for them.

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Are You Present In Your Child's Life?

Being a mom is TOUGH! It's the hardest job on the planet. I'm never able to think of myself, I'm really tired most of the time, and I usually have about 50 things going on at once.

My calendar is packed! We have about 3 days on the calendar this month with nothing to do. We have soccer practice, dance practice, school field trips, doctors appointments, dinners, meetings, the list goes on and on.... And, at the same time we are supposed to be there for our kids. Helping them with endless homework after school, reading to them for no less than 20 minutes per day, feeding them extremely healthy, organic snacks and meals AND keep my house SPOTLESS!

Okay, I may have been a tiny bit dramatic.... but not really. We, as moms, have a never-ending list of things that has to get done.

Today, I picked up my kids from school and we were headed home. I asked them the usual, "Did anything exciting happen today at school?"

They answered.

I heard them get quiet so I went on to my next question, "What was your favorite part of today?"

They answered.

They got quiet again.

I could not tell you their answers.

Let that sink in. I asked them questions, they told me exciting things that happened while I wasn't with them. What they learned, who they played with, what craft they did, but I was so caught up with thinking about my next task I didn't even know what they answered. I just knew I needed to engage and ask them about their school day.

I had to get home and get backpacks hung up, lunch boxes cleaned out, snacks prepped, homework started....

My list is so long and I have so many things to do I am rarely full present with my children.

I'm here. I'm with my kids. I play with them. I read with them. But, I am constantly thinking of the next thing I have to do. My mind is somewhere else. My body is here, my mind is not.

Dinner needs to be made. I could throw in a load of laundry before that so it's washing while I make dinner. The baby needs a diaper change... It goes on... and on... and on....

My question to myself today was, "How often am I 100% PRESENT in my child's life?" Not just doing tasks with them or for them, but really seeking to know their hearts and learn about them and soak up their sweet energy?

I am a stay at home mom. I am with my kids 80% of the time. If they aren't at school, they are with me. But, how often do I REALLY listen to their stories and not just say "Really?" or tell them "In a minute." or how many times am I so busy they have to repeat their questions because I have to say "What?" because I really wasn't paying attention the first two times they said it?

My goal is to declutter my life. Clean out that schedule. The little things around the house that aren't too important. To get rid of them or put them off so I can sit down with my kids for 15-20 minutes and REALLY be present. REALLY spend time with them.

They are growing each and every day. They are a little older every morning they wake up. I'm ready to soak up the little things every day. I want to be present. 100% present in their daily life.

Obviously, things still need to get done. There are still dirty dishes, dirty laundry, meals to be made, bills to pay. But, in those moments my kids REALLY need me and really want to talk with me and spend time with me and share things with me. I'm going to drop everything. I'm going to look them in the eye. I'm going to share giggles. I'm going to hold them. I'm going to kiss them. I'm going to make memories with them.

Are you present? Are you fully there? Is it a struggle? Declutter your life. Let some things wait. Spend time with your kids, not just time driving your kids to and from practices or making meals or being in the same room. Let's do this. I don't think we will ever regret it.

Who's with me??

Let's do this.

Get Rid of the Mommy Guilt!

Mommy Guilt is an awful thing. It’s time to let go of it. Agree?

 I am notorious for mommy guilt. I had 3 kids in 4 years. Nothing changes your perspective on life like having 3 kids in 4 years. My whole life is my children. I do everything for them, because, come on, they can’t do much for themselves at this point.

 I am constantly cleaning, cooking, doing laundry, changing diapers, reading stories, giving baths, wiping bottoms, getting snacks, transporting kids to activities, walking to the park, fixing scraped knees, feeding a baby at 3 am, the list goes on and on and on. 98% of my life is consumed by children. And I wouldn’t change it for the world. However, a while back, I realized I haven’t done much for myself in YEARS.

 About a year ago, I decided my treat to myself was to go get my hair done every couple months. I keep a regular appointment for this and I rarely reschedule because it is my time for me. Other than that, I wasn’t doing much for myself. A few weeks ago, I really started thinking about my attitude and my outlook on life. I realized I was so consumed with children, filling their mental, emotional, and spiritual cups, constantly pouring out of mine, I was struggling to fill my cup back up. And, it is impossible to pour out of an empty cup. So, I have taken a pledge with myself and I hope you take it with me!

 Stop feeling guilty for doing things for yourself. Make the monthly hair appointment. Go and buy that dress. Go sit on your back patio and sip your cup of coffee while the kids watch a movie. Find SOMETHING every day, or every few days to do FOR YOU!

 I was shopping yesterday with my family. We rarely go to department stores because we are the ‘thrifty’ family. Most everything is hand-me-downs, thrift store, or clearance. However, I told my husband I needed a dress for an upcoming event we are going to and I wanted a new dress. I found a dress and it was $32 (GASP!). I haven’t spent that much on a single piece of clothing since college. But, I bought it. I took it home and I tried it on. And, it felt AMAZING! I felt like a woman again. Human again. My kids commented on my new dress and how they thought I was pretty. I had a boost of confidence.

 There are lots of times I feel like a machine. I still exclusively breastfeed my 8 month old. I feel like a milk machine. My 3 and 5 year old constantly need my help. I forget many times that I am human and woman, and I also have needs.

 So, I urge you beautiful moms, Go! Spend some time, some money, some energy on YOU! Get that pedicure you want. Don’t feel guilty about it. Go for a long walk by yourself. Don’t feel guilty. It is the hardest thing for me to do. And, I bet it is for you too. But you got this! You will have a fresh mind, boosted confidence and you will be a better momma for it. Your kids love you and need you. They need you to fill their cups, go fill yours up first. You will be a better mom when you do.

 Who is with me?

To My Baby, As Your Enter Kindergarten....

It doesn’t seem that long ago, my baby, that you were swaddled in a blanket, being held in my arms hours after your birth. I kissed your forehead and your cheeks and told you I would love and protect you forever. Daddy and I were so nervous taking you home. You were so small. You began scooting and rolling and were on the move. Within months you were pulling yourself up and taking those first shaky steps. Your chubby little hands flying around in the air and your sweet little giggle as you learned a new skill. I walked right behind you during those first steps, making sure to catch you when you fell and snuggle you close when you were hurt.
 Time flew by, my baby, as you grew and our family grew. You became a big brother. You had a best friend. I watched you as you learned to share your toys and how you reacted when you didn’t want to share your toys.
 We rocked many hours in that rocking chair in the living room. Sometimes with a fever, sometimes with an owie, sometimes just for you and me to spend time alone.
 Many nights recently, I sneak into your room and watch you while you sleep. Your sweet face that is no longer a baby face. Your chubby cheeks are gone. Your fat little hands have slimmed down to little boy hands. Your soft eye lashes flutter while you sleep and you take a deep relaxing breath. I kiss you on the forehead, just as I did when you were swaddled in my arms in that hospital bed. As I turn on your nightlight and softly step out of your room, I realize my baby is growing.
 You will soon be walking through those elementary school doors. You will be making new friends. You will be making decisions without me beside you. You will be making memories without me there. Don’t grow too fast, sweet child. Hold my hand while we walk. Squeeze me tight and kiss my cheek. Let me hold you just a little longer. I’m not sure I’m ready for you to leave the comforts and security of my arms. But you will. And you will fly. You will flourish.
 As I wipe the tears from my cheeks that first school day, just remember they aren’t tears of sadness, they are happy tears. I am so proud of you, sweet baby. You will change the world. And, this is the first step. I will let go of that hand and watch you enter that classroom with your backpack strapped to you and your lunch box in hand.
 You are so precious. I love you forever. Forever you will be my baby.
 I love you my Kindergartener.
I will let go of your hand. And you will soar.

Don't Judge A Mom By Her "Park" Cover

I have to admit, one of my favorite ways to get a break is to go to the park. My kids run around, the baby kicks on the blanket, I play on my phone, or read, or snack, or just stare off into space. I am a hands on mom at home. The park is my time to do nothing. I get lots of looks at the park. As if I am not an involved mom with my kids, that I don't care about them, that I don't pay attention to them. That's not it at all. Don't judge a mom by her "park" cover. Some moms work outside the home, away from the kiddos all day, and love that one on one time with their littles at the park, pushing them on the swings and catching them as they come down the slide. Some moms need the break. This is their break. Let them be. Don't give the "looks". Smile at her, make a small joke about finally getting the kids energy out and giggle. Don't judge. You don't know how much she has done all day. Lift each other up and encourage one another. That might be the only motivation she gets the whole day. Stay amazing beautiful mommas!!

Sometimes I Feel Like I'm Failing

Sometimes I feel like I am failing as a mother, as most moms do. There are days when I get caught up with the daily tasks of life and forget to look at the big picture. I forget why I do what I do. Recently, I had about 50 things going on at once, the house was a mess, the baby was fussy, and I felt like I wasn’t getting any help. I’m not sure what was said, or why I reacted the way I did, but I remember the moments afterward clearly. I was laying the baby into her swing and was told something, I was overwhelmed and frustrated. I got the swing going and clenched my fists and made the mommy “EEERRRRR” sound. I turned around to see my 3 year old looking at me, wide eyed. I just looked at him and said, quietly, “Mommy is overwhelmed.” After I realized he caught me, I felt pretty low. But, I quickly moved on, like I have to do, most days. However, a few hours later, my kids were sitting at the dining room table, playing, and my 3 year old got frustrated. Guess what his reaction was? Yep, you guessed it. He clenched his fists and made the “EEERRRR” noise. Normally, I would sit down and talk with him about it, how to handle the situation differently. But, this time I realized his reaction was solely based on my example. Ouch. I realize it is something pretty small in the grand scheme of things, but it made me realize two things. One: I can’t even remember why I reacted the way I did. It made me step back and evaluate what I am making big deals out of. Two: I am an example to my kids with the big and small things. Not just the things I say, but the things I do. They watch my every move. At the end of the day I have to remember I am human. I make mistakes. My kids see those mistakes. They also see how I handle myself after the mistakes are made. If you have moments when you feel like you are failing as a mother, just know that means you are a good mom. We all have bad days, we all have low points. Don’t beat yourself up about it. Tomorrow is a new day. You are all amazing, beautiful mommas. No one is perfect, but your children think you are the perfect mommy for them. Keep on being incredible.

Be Proud of Your Motherhood Story

If you are a younger mom, an older mom, a single mom, a married mom, a mom who is struggling, or a mom who thinks she has it somewhat together, today, be proud of your story. No one else has your same story. Someday, your children will ask for stories and you are living these stories right now. Embrace it. Even in the struggles of daily life, even when you lose your temper, even when you break down in tears, when you are cheering on your kids, when you have a good laugh with your family, when your child comes home proud of an accomplishment, these are moments you will remember. Be proud of who you are. If there are places in life you feel you need to grow or change, work at it, but don't beat yourself up about it. Don't let anyone tear you down. You know exactly what your children need, and they are looking up at you, thinking you are the best mother for them. Be proud of YOU. Exactly where you are. We are all growing, learning, and struggling. Let's come together and embrace that we are all wonderful, beautiful mamas!

-Stacy H.