Embracing Extra
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05/14/2026
Today I took Hudson to the dentist and ENT.
These appointments are usually challenging, but today was different.
Hudson independently did all the things you’d expect an 8-year-old to do. He followed directions, cooperated with ease, and handled both appointments so well.
I found myself sitting in the corner with a smile and tears in my eyes, overwhelmed with pride.
Sometimes progress shows up in the most ordinary moments and reminds you just how far your child has come.
Good job, Hudson. I’m so proud of you. 💙💛
No one told them to do this.
But they saw their brother up there…
and chose to join him.
Not perfectly.
Not professionally.
Just fully.
Hudson has been practicing this dance—
and he shows up with his whole heart every time.
And honestly? That’s everything 🥹💛
A year ago today, I stood on that stage and shared something I wish someone had told me sooner—
It’s okay if it feels hard.
But don’t stay there.
Don’t lose your fourth trimester to grief like I did.
Dear Mom gave me the space to say that out loud…
and the community that helped me live it out after.
Because healing didn’t happen in one moment.
It happened in the conversations, the “me too’s,” the women who reminded me—again and again—that I wasn’t alone.
This year, I’m not there.
But I carry that message with me every single day.
To the mamas in that room—soak it in.
And to the ones who aren’t, especially the ones in the thick of it right now—
You are allowed to feel it all.
Just don’t stay there.
There is so much life waiting for you on the other side of it. 🤍
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