Another trip around the sun!

Usually, I love to spend my birthday reflecting positively on the previous year, but this year I’m more than ready to leave the past behind me. On paper, this year looks like a win for me.

On paper, this year looks like a win for me.

I took on multiple new clients and I learned so much. I made more money than I’ve ever made in my life. I got my finances in order and I fixed my credit (780 credit score now, Woo!) I spent some time with a parent coach to learn to communicate better with my kids, and I spent some personal time working on improving my communication with Jason.

But the reality of this past year was dark for me.

My mental health took a big hit, and spending every second with the kids made work difficult. There were times I pulled all-nighters just to meet deadlines because night time was the only time I got a break, but the result was even harder on my mental health. I think I’ve cried more this past year than I ever have, and the most difficult part was not knowing when there would be light at the end of the tunnel.

I think I’ve cried more this past year than I ever have

I’ve learned just how much my mental health hinges upon having regular breaks from the kids. But this year left many moms in the lurches. I’m not talking about this to bum everybody out (though I know I’m succeeding lol). And I also understand the necessity of keeping everyone safe. But I’m talking about it because sometimes there’s solace in knowing you aren’t alone.

Light at the end of the tunnel.

Right now, Katie is in school a few hours a day, Isabelle just started preschool for 2 half days a week, I’m still working at the Hotel Maya a few days a month (btw their day rates are AMAZING and come with a margarita!), and I’m starting to see light at the end of the tunnel. I’m feeling hope for the first time in a long time, and I’m ready to start feeling like myself again.

I’m feeling hope for the first time in a long time.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re struggling. I know it’s been a hard year for all of us, and I’ve leaned on a lot of people. I want to pass on the hope that others have given me this year when I’ve been down. So, cheers to the next year. It can only up, right?