My mother-in-law stayed with us for nearly two months, lovingly helping to care for Iliana and supporting both my husband and I as adjusted to a new job. During that time, life felt lighter. Meals were thoughtfully prepared, childcare was shared and there was a wonderful rhythm of mutual understanding and give-and-take. Now that she’s returned home, I find myself back in the thick of things – juggling work, caregiving and daily responsibilities. I’m feeling drained trying to do it all at once.

Even when I’m exhausted and craving just a moment to breathe, I still try to show up fully as a loving wife, a present mother, a caring sister, a thoughtful daughter. These parts of me are genuine but sometimes I wonder if people assume I’m doing just fine because I rarely say otherwise.

It’s not that I’m ungrateful. I’m just tired. And feeling a little unseen in the process.