Well, here we are again. Another year has come and gone, and if I’m being honest, I’m not sure where the time went. One minute, we’re planning holiday dinners, and the next, it’s time to reflect on the year that just slipped through our fingers. As a mom, the end of the year feels like a big, giant pause button—one that gives me a chance to catch my breath and soak in everything that’s happened.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate surviving (and thriving) through the whirlwind that is motherhood and look forward to what’s next.

The Beauty of the Little Moments

Let’s face it—life with kids is chaotic. There are days when it feels like I’m running on fumes, just trying to keep the house in one piece, get everyone to their activities, and remember where I left my coffee cup (again). But as I look back over the year, I realize that it’s not the big events or milestones that stand out the most. It’s the quiet, little moments that made the year special.

It’s the way Twinkle’s face lights up when she sees me after a long day at work, the sound of my kids laughing together during movie night, and those late-night chats with Ykaie when we can just talk. It’s the hugs that seem to last a little longer and the moments when we’re all together—cooking dinner, baking cookies, or just hanging out on the couch watching movies.

Motherhood is made of these small, fleeting moments. The chaos is real, but so is the beauty.

New Year’s Resolutions: Embracing Imperfection

Like many of us, I used to make big, lofty New Year’s resolutions. I would vow to get up earlier, organize every closet, and eat better (because, you know, carbs are life). But as a mom, I’ve learned that perfection isn’t something we can realistically strive for. I’ve come to realize that I don’t need to be perfect. I just need to show up.

This year, I’m keeping it simple. My resolution? To be kinder to myself. To accept that some days will be a mess, but that’s okay. I won’t be the mom who has it all together every second. Some days, I’ll yell (and regret it). Some days, the laundry will pile up, and the dishes won’t be done. But at the end of the day, I’m doing my best—and that’s enough.

I’m also vowing to be more present. That means putting my phone down more often and giving my full attention to the moments that matter. Whether that’s reading a bedtime story or sitting down for a meal together without distractions, I want to be there, fully, for my kids. Because these years are short, and I don’t want to miss a single second.

Gratitude for the Messes

As much as we moms love our Pinterest-perfect moments, there’s also something incredibly beautiful about the messes that come with parenting. You know, the sticky fingers on the couch, the toys that take over every corner of the house, and the never-ending pile of laundry. I used to get frustrated by it all—feeling like I could never quite keep up. But now, I’m learning to appreciate it for what it is: a sign that we’re living.

Those piles of toys? They’re a reminder that my kids are home, playing and creating memories. The laundry? It means we’ve got a full family, with lots of adventures, sports, and activities that leave us all busy and tired (but happy). The crumbs on the floor? Well, they’re a sign of the meals we share together and the chaos that makes our house feel like home.

This year, I’m taking a step back and being more grateful for those messes. They won’t last forever. One day, I’ll look back and miss the sound of little feet running through the house or the endless requests for snacks. So I’m holding onto those messy, chaotic, wonderful moments a little tighter this year.

Celebrating Growth as a Mom

I’ve learned a lot this year, both about motherhood and about myself. I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help when I need it. I’ve learned that sometimes the best thing I can do for my kids is take care of myself first—because if I’m running on empty, I’ve got nothing to give. And I’ve learned that it’s okay to let go of expectations—perfection isn’t realistic, but love, patience, and presence are.

I’ve also learned that being a mom isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” job. There’s no manual, no perfect way to parent. What works for one family might not work for another. And that’s okay. We’re all just figuring it out as we go along, doing the best we can with what we’ve got.

Looking Ahead: What’s to Come?

As we head into this new year, I’m excited. Excited for the opportunities, the growth, and yes—the challenges, too. Because those challenges will make us stronger. There will be hard days, and there will be good days, but through it all, I’m looking forward to every single moment.

My goal this year is simple: to be more present, to embrace the imperfections, and to love my family even harder. To take the time to savor the chaos and beauty of motherhood. Because when it’s all said and done, these are the years I’ll look back on and cherish.

Here’s to a new year, full of joy, messes, love, and everything in between. Happy New Year, friends. Let’s make it a year to remember. 💕🎉