As a mom, it’s easy to feel like you should be experiencing certain emotions at key moments in your child’s life—especially when social media is filled with emotional back-to-school posts. But what if you don’t feel the way you think you’re “supposed” to feel? As my daughter, Remi, prepares to start kindergarten, I’ve found myself reflecting on this very question. And I’ve come to realize that it’s okay—more than okay—to embrace your authentic feelings, even if they don’t match the norm.
In just a few days, Remi will start kindergarten. It’s a milestone I’ve been anticipating, but not in the way many might expect. While my social media feed is flooded with tearful goodbyes and nostalgic reflections from other parents, I’m feeling something different. I’m excited. I’m genuinely thrilled about this next chapter in Remi’s life, and I’ve been wondering if that makes me different—or even if I’m doing something wrong.
There’s a part of me that feels like I’m supposed to be dreading this moment, wishing time would slow down. But right now, all I feel is joy. Maybe it’s because her move to kindergarten isn’t such a drastic change from her nature-based preschool, where she attended three days a week. Even though she’ll be going every day now, it feels like a natural progression. I’m excited about the amazing school she’s about to attend—a place that will nurture her love for the outdoors for the next 8 years.
I’m also looking forward to having a bit more time to focus on my work without the constant juggle and guilt of not giving her enough attention. I’m excited for her to make new friends and build relationships, and I’m hopeful that I’ll meet other parents and perhaps build some new friendships myself.
But here’s the truth: It can be hard to find your authentic voice and validate your own feelings when we’re so often consumed with other people’s lives and filtered stories on social media. We’re bombarded with images and captions that tell us how we “should” feel, and it’s easy to get caught up in that. But what if your feelings don’t match what you see online? What if you’re not sad, but excited? What if you’re not dreading this change, but eagerly anticipating it?
I believe in celebrating authenticity—in parenting, in life, and in the way we capture those moments that matter most. Every family has a unique story, a unique dynamic, and unique feelings that deserve to be honored, not forced. When I photograph families, I never ask for fake smiles or staged emotions. I’m there to document the real, raw, and honest moments that tell your true story.
Pregnancy, birth, the postpartum period, and all stages of motherhood are filled with complex emotions, and each stage of life brings its own mix of joy, stress, love, and everything in between. When I capture your family, I want you to be fully present in those emotions because they are real, true, and deserve a place to shine.
So as Remi starts this new chapter, I’m choosing to embrace my excitement, knowing that this is exactly where we’re meant to be. And to all the other parents out there, however you’re feeling—whether it’s joy, sadness, or a mix of both—know that it’s okay. We’re all on our own unique journeys, and that’s something worth celebrating.
If you’re a mom with little ones and you’re looking for a Family Photographer in Chicago to capture the real, authentic moments of your family’s journey, I’d love to work with you. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, navigating a transition, or simply wanting to document the everyday beauty of your life, I’m here to help you preserve those memories in a way that feels true to you.
Let’s embrace the real moments together. Contact me today to book me as your family photographer in Chicago and let’s create something beautiful, authentic, and uniquely yours.
