Feel like you’re doing it all but still not doing enough? In my new series Motherhood Reflections, read along with me to reflect on the honest ups and downs of motherhood, guilt, and grace—and why chasing perfect balance isn’t the goal. Stay tuned to be reminded that presence, not perfection, is what truly matters.

Motherhood. A beautiful, chaotic, overstimulating rollercoaster ride with no seatbelt and questionable snack breaks. And yet, we keep showing up—loving, feeding, fixing, folding… and then snapping over a sock on the floor like we just stepped on a landmine. Sound familiar? Yeah, you’re not crazy. You’re just cooked.

Let’s start out by saying your emotions as a new mom will ebb and flow. This shit is hard! Between the constant feedings, sleepless nights and trying to figure out what’s wrong with a tiny human who has no idea what’s wrong with themselves, it can be exhausting! But if your sadness feels suffocating, like you just can’t shake it, you could be dealing with postpartum depression.

Proper breastmilk storage is essential for maintaining the milk’s nutritional quality and preventing bacterial contamination. Storing breastmilk correctly ensures that your baby receives all the benefits of breastfeeding, even when feeding from a bottle

Here are 10 affirmations for you on this challenging, yet rewarding journey of motherhood.

This is not easy, and everyday brings something different. I hope that these affirmations remind you to have grace for yourself, be present, and understand that we’re all winging this shit. There is no rule book to parenthood. You’re doing your best, and that is enough.