Motherhood changes us. Celebrate the ups and downs with these honest, insightful essays about becoming—and being—a mom.

Sex becomes so mechanical and monotonous when it's demoted to just one sole purpose.

The boy you raised grew into a strong, loving man. A supportive, equal partner. And a next-level dad.

We've been through a lot together, including three kids.

Hi, my name is mom. Some days I forget what my given name is.

My entry into motherhood was not the explosion of joy I anticipated.

I know you won't be little for much longer.

Each option feels like I am sacrificing something important.

"Having to choose between my children's health and education doesn't feel right."

We quickly realized that the life we had held onto so tightly, the one we thought we wanted and needed was not compatible with our new lives as parents of three under 3.

There was a lot of trial and error, but these products helped.

My own daughter's tantrum taught me an extremely valuable lesson.

I'd expected that my new puppy would fill a baby-shaped hole in my life, but instead, she gently revealed that perhaps, babyhood wasn't all that appealing to me anymore.

When my son finally stopped using his pacifier I knew I was saying goodbye to his last bits of babyhood.

I amaze myself at what I can accomplish while the clock is ticking.

My 4-year-old has adapted. It's time for grown-ups to do it, too.

Am I still a great mother because I am sad? Yes, I am. And so are you.

Being on mat leave helped me think about what I want—and don't want—when it comes to my career.

I remember your comfort and how you kept me warm. I remember your face above me when I cried for you. I remember you would feed me when I was hungry, or tired or in pain.

I want to encourage my son to express pride and allyship, but I also want to shield him from everything else that may come with making a statement in our small town.