Grief, Grace, and Spring Break

Let me say this loud for the people in the back:

Parenting is not for the faint of heart—or the fond of sleeping.

This is an appreciation post for all the parents doing the damn thing—especially those trying to hold it together while life keeps life-ing.

I am a mother.

A daughter.

A sister.

A wife.

A small business owner.

A community builder.

A woman of faith, grieving the physical loss of her father.

And yet—I'm still responsible for three beautiful lives that look to me for love, guidance, and presence.

Lately, that responsibility has felt heavier.

Not because my children are a burden, but because I’m navigating a new world without the physical presence of my father.

The ache of his absence shows up unexpectedly—in the silence between errands.

In the long days of spring break.

In the memories I wish he could share.

But even in the midst of grief, chaos, and unanswered emails...

We made space for joy.

We carved out time for family.

It wasn’t easy.

But it was necessary.

My father believed in family.

He believed in showing up for your children—not just when it’s convenient, but especially when it’s not.

He knew that parenting is sacred work.

A calling.

A legacy in motion.

And here’s the truth no one likes to say out loud:

Parents don’t get days off.

Even when we’re exhausted.

Even when our hearts are heavy.

Even when we’re grieving.

But, best believe, every moment we spend being present—

Truly present—with our children is a moment that matters.

A moment that affirms love.

A moment that builds the world we want them to inherit.

So today, I honor us.

The ones who are parenting through pain.

The ones who are still standing.

Still showing up.

Still choosing love.

Because that—

That is what legacy looks like.