Modern day motherhood is isolating. Add on 2+ years of a pandemic and many of us can count on one hand the meaningful social interactions we've had with other parents. Sure, there are knowing glances at the playground. The desire to run across the street and strike up casual conversation when you see someone else out on a walk with a stroller.  

We are social beings. We were meant to raise our children in community - for more hands to hold babies, stir soup, and fold laundry. And, more than that, for the shared experience. For knowing we are not alone in what we are going through.

In all of our circles the most incredible moments are not when we trade swaddle tricks, or the best shows to binge watch, or strategies for dealing with in-laws (which are all very helpful!).

They are the moments when someone is brave and vulnerable and shares a story, or a feeling, or an experience they think nobody else can understand - and then look around the room and see nodding, acceptance, and often tears. This is true connection.

Sometimes the loneliest part of motherhood is not actually being in our houses by ourselves with our children, but truly feeling that we are the only one going through what we're going through.
​
So we wanted to share just a sampling of these burdens that felt unique and were met with deep understanding in recent weeks: 

At the end of February, I posted an article about Releasing Expectations - as a part of the post I shared that I was working on releasing the expectation of independent sleep. Our family has been on quite a sleep journey over the last 6.5 years and over that time I've worked with hundreds of families, witnessed many different sleep strategies, and have come to this conclusion:

There is no right way for every family to sleep. 
​
The best thing for your family is to sleep the way that works for your family at this time.

Our family's sleep story has included SO MANY different combinations including (in order):