essays

My husband and I found a new, unexpected way to bond: our 2022 budget

The couple who budgets together, stays together.

Confession: I’m a dietitian and feeding my daughter is a struggle

As a dietitian, I teach other parents how to feed their own kiddos. And yet, I couldn't even get my own daughter to try a new food, let alone accept it.

Jade on postpartum depression and anxiety while dealing with her baby’s sleep issues

"I felt like the biggest failure because I could not get him to sleep on his own through the night."

My epidural worked *too* well—here’s what I wish I knew

I had a panic attack while in labor, but now I know what to ask for next time.

I was not in love with my baby right away

I needed time to get to know him.

You don’t know what love is before you have kids

I never knew that I could love someone so much before having kids.

I’m a divorced mom, but don’t tell me my kids live in a ‘broken home’

I'm proud of the home I've made for my children, because let me tell you, single motherhood isn't easy.

Marriage is imperfect because people are imperfect—and that’s okay

Thanks to the hard work of raising kids, we’ve learned that to be a good teammate doesn't mean perfection.

Hanna on PPD and PPA after undergoing an emergency hysterectomy after giving birth

“At this point, it’s her uterus or it’s her life.”

Dear middle child: You fill a special spot in my heart

Please know that I see you, my little love, even on those days when my eyes are drawn to your brother or sister because they are a little more vocal, or require my immediate attention.

I’m a climate scientist: Here’s how climate change directly impacts mothers and babies

We must confront the truth about how climate change harms pregnant women. 

My daughter has entered the tween years—and I’m not ready.

Parent-free outings, cell phones & social media are headed my way, and all I want to do is stop time.

I don’t want kids—but I’ll love yours

I don’t know if other women dream of becoming aunts. But it’s the highest honor I can think of for someone who loves children but doesn’t want her own.

I’m done with New Year’s resolution pressure

Don't forget to celebrate your little accomplishments as well as your big ones.

I’m not worried about giving my kids ‘the perfect’ gift this year

It's for their benefit and mine, too.

How I am teaching my children about the seven principles of Kwanzaa

Not just in December, but all year long.

Laura on PPD and caring for her baby alone in the hospital during Covid-19

"Every time a doctor or nurse came in, I instantly shot up and my adrenaline started pumping."

Mama, just because it’s a new year doesn’t mean you need to be a ‘new you’

Instead of demanding change from ourselves in an ever-changing and demanding world, what about letting ourselves come into growth and change naturally? Let’s travel gently into the new year together. 

As a divorced mom, Adele’s new album means so much—and here’s why

"Easy on Me" speaks to divorce in a rare but necessary way.

To the mom who feels fragile this holiday season

You deserve to be handled with care, too.