This is the first post in our One Mom’s Story series. Our first mom to share is our new writer and social media manager, Kristina.

I became a mom 10 years ago, with the birth of my first child, a son. He was born about 11 months after the worst experience of my life – my brother had died in a car accident. I was struggling to figure out what my life would look like after this tragedy. It was simultaneously the best and worst time in my life – I was grieving but also looking forward to becoming a mom and planning for the new baby. When my son was born, it felt a little bit like I was getting a chance to get my life back together. Three years later, my daughter was born. I was so excited to bring a second baby home and felt like our family was complete

Being a mom has, of course, changed my life in so many ways. I have more love and happiness than I can ever remember. My kids make me laugh and make me proud. Everyday I’m amazed that they’re growing into their own personalities, with unique opinions and goals.

Of course, being a mom is also hard sometimes. I have less money, more stress, and less free time! I question my decisions as a mom almost every day and I frequently feel overwhelmed and sure that I’m messing everything up! But I wouldn’t change anything.

I live in the Midwest with my husband, the kids, and two crazy dogs. I work full time as a writer, editor, and marketing guru. My kids are involved in what feels like a million activities – hockey, baseball, karate, softball, ukulele … we’re always on the move! When I do have free time I love to read and I’m a sucker for television!

I’ve really enjoyed being a part of Great Mother Heart these past couple of months and I look forward to seeing what it will grow into in 2017. But we’re going to need your help! We want to build a supportive and helpful community at Great Mother Heart. So we want to get to know all of you! If you’d like to submit your story for our One Mom’s Story series, please email us at greatmotherheart@gmail.com