If there’s one thing parenthood isn’t lacking, it’s opportunities for personal growth. For many, becoming a parent is a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from incredible joy and pure love to overwhelming self-doubt and bone-deep exhaustion. It’s a transformative journey like no other. You might feel exhilarated one moment and entirely drained the next. Amid all […]
Pregnancy and new parenthood are often painted as an idyllic time of joy, excitement, and bliss. While it’s true that becoming a parent is a beautiful time filled with many highs, it’s essential to acknowledge that it’s not all rainbows and butterflies.
A more accurate depiction of this life-altering transition period is that of an emotional rollercoaster. And we’re always down to have a candid conversation about the realities of early parenthood.
In 2018, my husband gave me the best Valentine’s Day gift I’ve ever received, which (admittedly) was one I never thought I wanted. Momentarily wracking my brain, I tried to remember where I was in my cycle. Deciding I wasn’t in the mood to be the “bad guy,” I lost myself in the moment right along with him. I didn’t give it a second thought until about a month later. I was two days late when a girlfriend and I took a trip to Sephora. When I could hardly stomach the samples of perfume, I was all but certain of my unexpected gift.
Have you ever felt like your baby is fighting sleep? You’re certain they’re exhausted, and yet, no matter what you do they just won’t give in to sleep. In fact, you know with certainty your baby just needs sleep. Frustrated, you let out an audible sigh and return to shushing and rocking, despite the dull ache in your weary muscles. Finally, after an hours-long battle of wills–or was it days?–your little one finally crashes into sleep. You put them down, certain they will sleep for hours after all of that effort, but within minutes, they’re up again crying for your help.
The journey into parenthood is an emotional rollercoaster. The newborn phase is no exception. For most new parents, there are moments of pure love, unlike anything they’ve ever felt before. The peace that can accompany time spent skin-to-skin. The purity of those first smiles and giggles. The incredulous joy of witnessing each developmental leap. For […]
Packing your hospital bag is a bit like packing for vacation. Maybe you’re the kind of person who is tempted to pack anything you might want or need during your stay. Or, maybe you’re the kind of person who prefers to keep it light. Whatever your preference is, we have a list for you!
Being pregnant was not my favorite experience in the world. In fact, I mostly hated it. Admitting that has always come with some amount of guilt, but it’s true. I was twenty-nine years old, happily married, and financially stable having a “normal” and “healthy” pregnancy. There was no reason to be anything other than a […]