Sometimes motherhood feels like a beautiful mess–a constant balancing act of love, chaos, challenges, and little victories. I want to share a little about where I am right now in my journey and how I’ve learned to find joy even in the busiest seasons.

As a mom of a teen cheerleader who competes nearly every weekend, and with homeschooling responsibilities, life is anything but quiet. Some days, the calendar feels overwhelming, and the to do list seems never-ending. But over time, I’ve realized that joy isn’t about perfection or “having it all together.” It’s about embracing the messy, unscripted moments and finding gratitude in the little things.

One way I stay grounded is by carving out small pockets of self-care–sometimes just five minutes to breathe, pray, or savor a warm cup of tea. I’ve also discovered that involving my daughter in simple family traditions, like sharing what we’re thankful for or cooking a quick meal together, connects us in a meaningful way despite the hustle.

Encouraging my teen in her dreams, celebrating her progress, and reminding her (and myself) that rest is part of winning has been a balancing act I’m still learning. What’s helped me most is leaning into communitiy–connecting with other moms who get it, sharing our stories, and knowing I’m not alone.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you’re just “surviving” motherhood right now, I want you to know you’re doing an amazing job. Joy isn’t a destination; it’s a choice we make every day in how we show up for ourselves and our families.

Thank you for being part of this community. I hope to share more encouragement, real talk, and helpful tips here as we navigate motherhood together.

What small moments bring joy in your busy days? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

With love,

Maria

No one really prepares you for this part of motherhood.

You go from kissing scraped knees and tucking them in at night… to standing outside a closed bedroom door, wondering how to reach the child who once clung to your leg just to be near you. One day they need you for everything, and the next, they’re pushing you away-figuring out who they are, testing limits, challenging everything (including you).

And you love them fiercely. But let’s be honest: being a mom of a teenager is hard.

The Push and Pull

Teenagers are caught in between two worlds- no longer children, not quite adults. They crave independence but still need your support. They want space but don’t always know how to handle it. One moment they’re vulnerable, the next they’re distant. It’s a constant push and pull, and navigating it can feel like walking a tightrope between holding on and letting go.

As a mom, it’s hard not to take it personally. The eye rolls. The silence. The sudden mood shifts. You start to question yourself: Am I doing enough? Too much? Not the right things? It’s exhausting and sometimes, heartbreaking.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or even a little defeated-you’re not alone. So many moms are quietly carrying the emotional weight of parenting teens, wondering if they’re the only ones struggling. The truth is, this stage of motherhood is rarely talked about in depth, and yet it’s one of the most emotionally complex.

There’s no manual for parenting a teenager-just your instincts, your values, and your willingness to keep showing up even when they say they don’t need you.

Small Things Matter

Even if they don’t say it, your presence still matters. The late-night check-ins. The packed lunches. The listening ear-even when all you get is a shrug. You are their safety net. Their quiet anchor. And while they may not always express it, they notice your love. They feel it.

You’re helping them become who they’re meant to be. And that no small thing.

Give Yourself Grace

You won’t get everything right. You’ll say the wrong thing, lose your temper, worry too much. But motherhood- especially during the teen years- is not about perfection. It’s about staying connected, even when it’s hard. It’s about setting boundaries, holding space, and continuing to love through all the chaos.

And don’t forget to take care of you, too. You are still a person with needs, dreams, and emotions. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and your well-being matters just as much as theirs.

A Gentle Reminder

This phase won’t last forever. One day, they’ll come back around-more grounded, more open, more grateful than you ever imagined. But for now, keep going. Keep loving. Keep trying. You’re doing better then you think.

Because being a mom to a teenager is hard-but it’s also shaping both of you into stronger, deeper, wiser versions of yourselves.

And that’s something worth holding on to.