Parenting Reflections

This blog post reflects on my journey of navigating girlhood through a challenging relationship with my mother. It delves into how my upbringing shaped my identity and the lessons I learned as a parent about fostering curiosity and self-discovery in my children. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of support, love, and connection that comes with embracing one's true self.

As a recovering people-pleaser, I used to perform who others wanted me to be. Recently, my 14-year-old called me out — and it reminded me: I can adjust, but I won’t go back to masking. Trust and authenticity matter more than polished pretending.

The other day, I asked my 11-year-old to stop talking. Not because I didn’t care — but because I did. After a long day, I couldn’t fake being present. Kids know when we’re not really listening. Sometimes the most honest thing we can do is pause, so when we return, we can truly hear them.

Sometimes reassurance doesn’t come in grand gestures. It comes in a quiet question, a plate of food, and a note from a teacher.