It's incredible how a single day can hold so many memories, both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Looking back #OnThisDay, I often find myself sifting through a kaleidoscope of experiences that have shaped who I am. Sometimes, it's just a fleeting image, but behind it lies a whole story, a lesson, or a moment of pure survival. I remember the stark reality of staying in hotels or shelter when I was homeless. It wasn't magical, not like the movies. It was a constant struggle, a fight to keep my kids happy, healthy, and OK, even when I didn't have time to process my own emotions. Being in survival mode meant putting one foot in front of the other, day after day. You learn to appreciate the smallest comforts, the safety of a bed, the warmth of a meal. That period taught me so much about resilience and the fierce love a mother has for her children. Then there are the family moments that are etched into my mind. Talking to my brother in prison on video, truly missing him, is a recurring memory. And the joy, however brief, of going to the zoo after I got my family back – those moments, even when they didn't last, were precious. It reminds you of the fragility of connections and the strength it takes to keep hoping. My baby spending 10 days in the hospital when she was born was another incredibly tough time. It was agonizing, watching her so vulnerable. You feel helpless, but you also find a deep well of strength you never knew you had. Every breath, every small improvement, was a victory. But life isn't just about the hardships. It's also about finding light in the darkness, the simple pleasures that pull you through. Going camping and helping reel in a fish, for instance. That feeling of being out in nature, the thrill of the catch – it's a reminder that beauty and adventure still exist. Or the simple joy of going to bingo with my mom, or sharing quesadillas with my best friend. These are the moments that truly nourish your soul, reminding you that connection and laughter are vital. Having a birth support team, even with complex dynamics, speaks to the human need for assistance during vulnerable times. It highlights how even when things are imperfect, support systems, however flawed, play a role. Why do we take photos? Perhaps it's to capture these very moments, to freeze them in time so we can revisit them #OnThisDay, years later. They serve as tangible links to our past, reminding us of where we've been, what we've overcome, and how far we've come. They are a testament to our journey, a visual diary of survival, love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. Every picture tells a story, and sometimes, those stories are the most powerful lessons of all.