Get to know me

Life with my sweet 17-month-old, Annie, is a beautiful whirlwind of joy, giggles, and endless discoveries! Becoming a mom in 2023 after getting married in 2022 completely changed my world, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Every day is an adventure, starting with Annie's excited morning greetings. We love our routine of breakfast, playtime, and exploring our home. Our living room, with its cozy corners and even the old grandfather clock ticking away the hours, is often transformed into a magical playground, complete with decorative wall signs that add a touch of whimsy to our family space. One of my absolute favorite things to do with Annie is playing dress-up. Her tiny wardrobe, often filled with adorable thrift store finds, is a treasure trove of imagination. We try on silly hats, colorful scarves, and she just lights up with delight! Of course, this leads to capturing countless moments. As a mom, I'm constantly taking pictures of her – from her widest smiles to her most curious expressions. Every photo is a treasure, like recreating our beautiful smiling family portrait, but this time with a toddler's messy, authentic charm! These snapshots aren't just pictures; they're memories frozen in time, reminding me of how fast she's growing and all the little milestones we've celebrated. Juggling my role as a full-time SAHM with occasional work as a physical therapist and a bartender can be a challenge, but it's also incredibly rewarding. There are days when the house feels like a tornado hit it, and I question if I'm doing enough. But then Annie will give me a hug, or I'll see her learn something new, and all those doubts melt away. My background as a physical therapist surprisingly comes in handy when chasing a very active toddler or understanding her developmental milestones – knowing how her body works helps me keep her safe and encourage her growth. It’s all about finding balance and making every moment count, even if it means some late-night prepping or early morning hustles. When I do pick up shifts, it reminds me of my individuality and keeps me connected to different parts of my life and passions outside of motherhood, but coming home to Annie’s excited squeals and hugs is always the best part of my day. Thrifting is another passion of mine that fits perfectly into this mom life. Not only is it budget-friendly, helping us create a lovely home without breaking the bank, but I find so much joy in discovering unique pieces for our family and adorable, often vintage-inspired, outfits for Annie. It's a little bit of 'me-time' that often results in something special for 'us'. For any other moms out there, I highly recommend finding those small pockets of joy and hobbies that keep your cup full. Whether it's reading a book during nap time (though not a "latest book" specifically, just any book!), a quick walk, or a creative outlet, maintaining a sense of self amidst the beautiful chaos is crucial. It makes all the difference in navigating the ups and downs of motherhood. From morning cuddles to bedtime stories, every day with my daughter, Annie, is a gift, and I'm so grateful to share these snippets of our journey with you all. It’s a messy, wonderful, exhausting, and utterly fulfilling life, and I wouldn't change a thing about being Annie’s mom.