As a first-time mom, I expected to feel joy—but instead, I felt fear. From dodging bath time to grieving unmet expectations, I’m learning that motherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about grace, growth, and doing the best we can with shaky hands and full hearts.

Calm on the outside, spiraling inside. A late-night Uber to the hospital led to a whirlwind of vitals, monitors, needles, and the terrifying realization: I might actually leave with a baby in my arms. Part 3 of my birth story takes you inside the moment labor truly began—complete with sarcasm, sidebars, and a whole lot of heart.

At 14, I promised myself I’d wait until life was “perfect” before becoming a mom. At 29, I found myself pregnant, scared, and right back in that emotional space. This is the story of breaking the news, wrestling with fear, and choosing to embrace a future I never expected—but somehow, still feels like mine.

A late period, a quiet morning, and two pink lines that changed everything. After years of dodging close calls, one moment in the bathroom made my whole world shift—and nothing would ever be the same.