Before kids, I thought I knew what busy felt like. I thought I understood exhaustion. I thought love had limits.

Then I became a parent.

And everything changed.

Life with kids is messy. Loud. Unexpected. It's toys in every room, goldfish crackers in the couch cushions, and questions—so many questions—before you've had your first sip of coffee. It’s feeling overwhelmed one moment and overflowing with love the next.

But somehow… you wouldn't trade it for anything.

Mornings Start Early—and Loud, very loud

Forget peaceful alarms. My mornings begin with footsteps sprinting down the hallway, the occasional crash, and someone knocking on my door, "MOM!" at a decibel that could wake the neighbors. Breakfast becomes a negotiation. Shoes disappear. Time moves faster, but also slower at the same time.

And yet, in the middle of the chaos, a tiny hand will grab mine, or a sleepy face will nuzzle into my shoulder—and suddenly, the exhaustion feels worth it while your heart is filled with love.

No Two Days Are the Same

One day, your toddler might nap like an angel, while you are able to get all the chores you've been neglecting done. The next, they’re climbing furniture like a mini Spider-Man. Just when you think you’ve got a routine down, something changes—teething, growth spurts, school projects, fevers, new phases.

Parenting keeps you on your toes. You learn to let go of “perfect” and embrace present.

The Little Moments Matter Most

Sometimes the most beautiful moments are the quietest ones:

  • A whispered “I love you” at bedtime.
  • Chubby hands offering you a flower (aka a dandelion).
  • Giggling together over something silly.
  • Watching them discover something for the first time.
  • Seeing them grow into their personality

They won’t remember the spotless floors or how fast the laundry got done—but they’ll remember how safe they felt with you.

You Find Strength You Didn’t Know You Had

Being a parent pushes you—mentally, emotionally, physically. Some days, you’re running on fumes. But even in your hardest moments, you keep showing up.

That’s what love does. It transforms you. Grows you. Stretches your heart until it holds more than you ever thought it could.

Yes, It’s Hard. But It’s Also Magic.

Life with kids means losing personal space, but gaining a deeper sense of purpose. It means learning patience, flexibility, and the power of unconditional love.

It’s a wild, exhausting, hilarious, beautiful ride.

And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

To all the parents in the thick of it—this season is hard, but it’s also full of magic. You’re doing better than you think. Keep going. 💛