Did you know May is the official “Mental Health Month?” I have battled with anxiety on and off for most of my life. My anxiety centers around health phobias, and it always feels so silly, but the reality is that I am not alone in my anxiety battles.

Don’t get me wrong: I have 100 percent respect and admiration for those who’ve served – most notably, my brother and my late grandfather. But admittedly, for me, Memorial Day has always had predominant overtones of picnics, parades, and a day off from school.

As a mom of four, life is hectic. And, by the time May rolls around, life enters a whole new level of chaos. Between soccer, baseball, swimming, and other activities, Monday-Thursday evenings are maxed out.

Yes, I said it. I could have negotiated and had better results without having to yell. Something I’ve been working on in my Mom Skills Box is doing more negotiating with my crew, so I can yell at them less. 

This is my third pregnancy, and I still feel completely surprised sometimes at the things that are happening to my body because every pregnancy is truly different.

Especially now that the weather is nicer and windows are open, my neighbors will truly be privy to my “mum voice”.  It’s a voice that even makes me cringe.

So then how in the world, when I’m racing around town trying to get Daughter A and Daughter B from Point A to Point B on time, are we going to find time to eat a frickin’ meal? Are we doomed to a solid month of Happy Meals and drive-thru dinners?

Mother’s Day is almost here. It’s always one of those holidays that can be so anticipated, yet we know the day will generally not go as we expect or hope.

Spring is here, and sports are starting. Teach your child what it means to be part of a team. Show them what sportsmanship looks like. Don’t be “That Guy”! Remember why they are playing and what they are really playing for.

The reality is that I was looking at myself through a negative lens. Instead of being proud of myself for remembering to take a picture of myself with my kids, I looked poorly on myself and my body image.