essays

I’m the mom who wants a big family

I know this will mean having our work cut out for us, but with all of that comes lots more adventure, lots more laughter and lots more love.

Yes, I want more children—but I’m enjoying my only child for now

Because these moments only happen once. And as quickly as they come, they are gone just as fast.

6 unexpected ways pole-dancing class empowered me to love my body

How an ex stripper taught me to stop being so hard on my body and myself.

What I wish people knew about raising a ‘wild’ child

Raising a "wild child" is not for the faint of heart.

Just because I’m a stay-at-home mom doesn’t mean I have to do it all

While I notably spend more time at home, the responsibility of the household does not solely fall on or depend on me. 

What I wish people understood about raising biracial children

The racial climate of our society creates the responsibility for me to teach my children how the world perceives them: Black.

To the mama who has a strained relationship with her mother-in-law: You’re not alone

It is a different kind of grief to carry.

On wondering if I’m a good mother to all of my boys

"Finding the balance between being a good mother for my rare disease warrior and my other two boys can be very difficult and overwhelming."

After Roe, a pediatrician shares how the health of America’s teens are at risk

Unplanned pregnancies are universally upending for teens, but the protections Roe v. Wade afforded guaranteed they didn't have to be life-defining or even life-ending.

Our son thanked us for ‘redshirting’ him in kindergarten

Reaching adulthood is not a race. I think we’d all enjoy an extra year of childhood if we had the chance.

Yes, I’m a mother—but my marriage is still a priority

Prioritizing your spouse doesn’t mean that you’re neglecting your kids—it means you're nurturing their foundation.

To my only child: Thank you for your patience as I learn how to be a mother

Because in becoming a mother, I am something and someone who I have never been before.

Preschool graduation is a bittersweet milestone

Sometimes, even the happy moments can bring us to tears because we are so invested in each phase of our child’s life.

Mama, your time is precious too

You have 24 hours each day, but somehow they pass without you stealing a single second for yourself.

Women need other women in their lives who will support them unconditionally

Because as women, sisterhood is the fabric of our existence. It is the pillar of our foundation and the firmness of our being.

Dear Son: You didn’t ask to be a big brother but I’m so glad you are

The days are long right now, but it makes me so excited about seeing you two grow up together.

New breastfeeding recommendations may do more harm than good without support for moms

While there is much to celebrate with this updated guidance, there is something important missing from the equation: support. 

What your daughter learns when she sees you confident in your body

Our girls are watching us and listening to how we treat ourselves.

You have every right to set boundaries with your kids’ grandparents

Because a lot has changed since they’ve raised us—and a lot will continue to change.

I had an abortion at 21. I have never wanted to tell my story—until now

This isn’t how I wanted to put this story into the world. But after Roe v. Wade was overturned, I need people to understand.