Daughters

My Daughters Are My Everything (And They Keep Me on My Toes)

Let’s be real: my daughters are my whole world. As their mom, I’m fully aware that they’re going to watch my every move. The way I treat myself, how I treat others, what I do with my time, my hobbies, my mental health (or lack thereof), and yeah, even my physical appearance. Basically, they’re going to measure their future beliefs against mine, and fingers crossed, I hope we stay on the same page. But let’s be honest, they’re growing up to be their own little humans—and they’re going to do things their own way. And I’m all for it! I just hope they remember that no matter what, if they put their minds to it, they can accomplish anything… and probably end up being cooler than me in the process.

Emerson: The Perfectionist With a Plan (And a Few Opinions)

First up, we have Emerson—my brilliant five-year-old. I had her when I was 27, just a year after marrying her dad, Tyler. Emerson is basically our pride and joy, and if you’ve ever had an only child for a few years, you know how that goes: they’re practically royalty. She’s the queen of our little castle. And she’s also become a bit of a perfectionist (I wonder who she got that from?). She has very strong opinions about what perfection looks like, and woe to anyone who dares to challenge that.

When Emerson was 3, I learned the hard way that letting go of control is part of the parenting gig. I tried to pick out her clothes (because obviously I know better) but all I got in return was a screaming toddler. So I gave up on that one. Emerson’s love language is quality time, and she has an endless supply of crafts that will somehow end up all over the house (much to my dismay). She started kindergarten this year, and while the first day was a little bumpy, it gave me a new level of empathy for all the parents who drop their kids off in tears. But she’s smart—like, really smart. She’s soaking up everything her teacher throws at her (and then coming home to pretend to be the teacher, which means I don’t really get a break, but hey, it’s cute).

She’s got this beautiful balance of ambition and humility, independence and kindness, shyness and sass. She’s the kind of kid who loves deeply but feels everything extra. Emerson has shown me that motherhood is a ride, and even on the tough days, I can do this.

Scarlet: The Adventure Seeker Who Loves Snacks (And Sleep)

Then there’s Scarlet, my 1-year-old, who I had when I was 31. Tyler and I had reached that point in life where we knew something needed to change—we just weren’t sure what. Should we move to a new house? Buy a bigger place? Should I go back to school? Or should we just have another baby? After much debate (and some major life decisions), we sold our beloved townhome, bought a big, beautiful house, and then—surprise!—we had Scarlet.

They say your first kid teaches you about love and parenthood. Your second kid teaches you about patience and not judging other moms. And boy, is that true. I thought I was busy with Emerson, but Scarlet has taken me to a whole new level of busy. She’s taught me to focus on what really matters, like love, family, and—let’s be honest—snacks. I’ve had to let go of my “perfect” vision of motherhood because Scarlet doesn’t care about my to-do list. She wants snuggles and adventures, and I’m here for it.

I’m still getting to know this little firecracker, but here’s what I’ve learned so far: She’s funny (like, belly-laugh funny), adventurous, and probably the world’s best sleeper (thank you, sweet baby Jesus). She’s also very into snacks, which honestly, who isn’t?

And Here We Are…

At the end of the day, my daughters are my everything, and though they challenge me, they also remind me of what really matters. Emerson has taught me that perfection doesn’t exist, but love and effort do. Scarlet has shown me that it’s okay to let go of control and just embrace the chaos (and the snacks).

I know there will be days when the lessons are hard and the messes are bigger than I can handle, but I’ll keep learning right along with them. Because if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that my girls have me wrapped around their tiny fingers—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Together or apart, I’ll always cheer them on as they chase their dreams—and I’ll be right there, probably covered in glitter and glue, doing my best to keep up.

Here’s to motherhood, imperfections, and the beautiful, messy, heart-expanding journey of raising strong, independent little humans.