The Truth About Parenthood

It's a subject that a lot of mommas and even dads may not feel comfortable talking about. No one wants to admit the areas where they may be struggling, and surely the ones where they may need some help.

I'll be the first to tell you that parenthood is not at all an easy feat. Couple the "normal" issues with being a SINGLE parent, and it gets even tougher. But I will tell you this- it's the best role I've ever had, the deepest love I've ever known and the best thing that's ever happened to me.

To know me is to know my love for Peyton. She's 3 and a half and she's honestly everything I aspire to be. Sassy, determined, stubborn, outspoken and she doesn't hold back or dim her light for anyone or anything.

I always say that becoming pregnant at 23 was terrifying. And it was. But it really forced me to grow up in ways that I wouldn't have otherwise. Parenthood pushes you to limits you didn't even know you had. It stretches you beyond belief and there are times where you can't even believe you could love a little human as much as you do. Sometimes, I just look at her in awe while she sleeps, plays, laughs or does anything, really. I can't even believe she was baking in my belly for 9+ months. The thought of it is insane.

And while I love motherhood and all of the joys that it brings, no one really talks about the flip side. We're all so busy being superheroes and trying to do it all, that we get caught up in that.

It can be beautiful AND exhausting.

It can be rewarding AND depleting.

It can be fulfilling AND wear you down.

These things are not mutually exclusive. And I'm starting to learn and accept that.

There are nights where you're so exhausted and you just want to sleep, but you might have a looming list of chores or just want to spend some time up late by yourself, because you don't know when the next time you might get some alone time will be. In my case, I've had to stress and sometimes struggle with my work schedule and trying to figure out who's going to watch my daughter and pick her up from school. Thankfully, I've had so much support from my dad who really helps me on the daily, and my family and friends- but, it's still hard and it's still stressful.

I always have to remind myself that God is literally walking with us. He sees everything. He hears everything. He knows what we need, when we need it. And when I find myself doubting that, I have to speak the things I know to be true:

God loves us.

God knows us.

God is with us.

Having a child really opens your eyes up to the love of God. He loves us unconditionally, and nothing we do can separate us from receiving that love. Much like I love my daughter unconditionally. I would do anything for her. And no matter what, I will always have her back.

Momma (or Dad), there are going to be times when you feel weary. There are going to be times when you're stressed about finances, or who's going to watch your kid. There are going to be places and events your friends might be at, that you can't go to. There are going to be tough decisions you might have to make, simply because you're a parent. BUT, all of it grows you. It molds you into the woman or man you're supposed to be. It prunes you to receive God's best and His blessings. And the blessing is in the journey. It's in the process. Growth is not linear. There will be ups and downs. And when you get to where you're going, you'll be able to look back and appreciate the pivotal moments, because you wouldn't be who you are today without them!

And if you're anything like me, you realize how fast the time goes when those babies grow up. It's like time has wings. One day they can barely hold their heads up, and the next they're making demands and working a TV on their own. Embrace every moment. The tough ones and the more enjoyable ones. Because all of it is temporary. I tell myself the same exact thing when I'm feeling overwhelmed (which is more times than not).

It's okay to need a break.

It's okay to want alone time. It's okay to want to hang out with friends.

Don't be afraid to reach out to the people around you for help. I'm someone who tries to handle everything on my own. But, my circle always reminds me that I don't have to. It truly takes a village to raise a child, so don't feel embarrassed or prideful about needing your village. I'm sure if you think back to your childhood, you can remember your own village and the people who rallied together to support you. It's no different now for our babies.

So, remember that YES you are a superhero! Especially to that little person who looks up to you.

AND, you are also a human.

Take care of yourself, so you can be happy and whole when you show up for your baby.