Childhood is precious and it doesn't last forever.  My neighbor helped me really think about what I'm missing and learn to slow down and create more one-on-one time with my kids.

Three very different roles acted out by the same woman.

Dear Esme,

Something's changed. I used to dread seeing your face inches away from mine in the pre-dawn light. "Mommy. Mommy. Is is morning yet?" Now I see...

Last night I had a plan. It entailed getting the kids to bed early so that I could watch a movie and then go to bed too. I lay there wondering if I was ever going to watch my movie. Please...just a couple of hours of peace.

I went to visit a mother the other day who is going through ten times as many challenges as I am, and she wondered the same thing. "I know I won't be challenged beyond what I can bear, but I feel so maxxed out. How am I going to get through this?"

Have you ever woken up in the morning and wondered how you became a grown up? I think I’m a grown up now. I mean, there are 5 rug rats running around here. I think that makes me a grown up. Right?

The start of a new school year signals all that is fresh and new, but there are mixed feelings to be had. Whether the schoolyard summons joys or fears, moms have an opportunity to set the tone for how the family will make the transition...