“When I birthed our first daughter, I realized that my heart was no longer within my body but out, vulnerable for the world to see, hear, touch, and judge.  It was scary…really scary. Overwhelmed with this new life sent me into a tailspin. The perfectionist in me couldn’t handle the intense feelings of inadequacy and failure. I felt the need to hide that from everyone because surely, all other mothers have their crap together. Eventually, I found myself dealing with postpartum depression. I finally had this gift that I wanted and prayed for but I felt so unworthy of her. Thankfully, I have an amazing husband, a supportive family, and a helpful network of soul sisters. I could not have gotten through that time without their help and the help of some trusted professionals. It truly takes a village to raise a child and a mother.”