38 weeks pregnant... And starting a blog?!

Welcome to my world at 38 weeks pregnant! It's mid-August, and I’m gearing up for my third baby. You might wonder what’s compelling me to start a blog right now, amid the chaos of preparing for a newborn, managing my toddlers, and trying to remember when I last drank a glass of water. Well, I’ve realized something important: I miss writing.

During my dissertation, which coincided with my husband’s deployment, journaling became my sanctuary. It kept me grounded and helped me process emotions. I wrote for myself, yet I now recognize something vital: mothers need spaces to express their true feelings - the unfiltered ups and downs of parenthood.

The Reality of Motherhood

Let’s talk honestly. Motherhood is an incredible journey, yet it comes with its overwhelming moments. Like when you look at the clock, see it’s 3 p.m., and think, “How is it only 3 p.m.?” We are often pushed to love every single second, but that’s not always reality.

I want this space to encourage openness and support. Here, you can admit, “Something doesn’t feel right,” and gain the confidence to trust your instincts. We can share insights without fear of judgment or mom guilt.

What to Expect Here

In this blog, I plan to share:

• Real snapshots of my life, mess included

• Professional advice from my background as a licensed psychologist

• Unique insights that you might not find on social media

  
  

Sharing experiences can help reduce feelings of isolation. Whether you’re managing pregnancy cravings, postpartum emotions, or the juggling act of raising little ones, remember: you are not alone in this chaos.

The Importance of Mental Health

As a psychologist, I understand how vital mental health is during pregnancy and postpartum. Research shows that around 1 in 5 women experience postpartum depression. It’s essential to prioritize your well-being, especially under the pressures of motherhood.

It’s perfectly fine to admit that you don’t have it all figured out. Asking for help, engaging in therapy, or simply taking a few quiet moments for yourself are necessary steps. Remember, caring for your mental health isn’t a luxury; it's essential for both you and your family.

Weekly Challenge: The “3 p.m. Check-in”

To start our journey together, let’s try a simple exercise: the “3 p.m. Check-in.” Today, pause and ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” This could be as simple as drinking a glass of water, reaching out to a friend, or sitting quietly for just two minutes.

This practice allows you to reconnect amidst the chaos and reinforces the concept that your needs are just as important as everything else.

Embracing the Mess

Let’s dive into the mess of motherhood—both literal and figurative. My home can feel like a whirlwind of toys, laundry, and half-finished projects. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine. Embracing the chaos is part of the journey.

I plan to share those raw moments: the days when dinner means another round of cereal or when I realize I’ve worn the same sweatpants for the third day in a row. These experiences are just as important as those polished social media posts we often see. They represent the genuine, messy side of motherhood.

Finding Community

One of the greatest benefits of motherhood is creating connections with other moms. Whether through playdates, online forums, or casual chats with friends, finding a community that understands your journey can uplift you tremendously.

I encourage you to reach out, share your journey, and lean on your support system. We are all in this together, and vulnerability often unites us.

Let’s Do This Together

If you’re ready, grab your coffee (or reheat it… again), and let’s embark on this journey together. I’m delighted to explore the ups and downs of motherhood with you and create a welcoming space where we can all feel valued.

Motherhood is wild, exhausting, and beautiful. It’s a lot easier when we don’t have to pretend it’s perfect. So, let's celebrate the chaos, support one another, and find joy in the little moments. I can’t wait to connect with you on this new adventure!