In this episode, Heather reflects on the evolution of her life as a working mom, navigating the challenges, surprises, and deep love that comes with raising her daughter, Jocelyn.

• Initial Career and Family Plans:
  Heather started with big dreams for her career, envisioning a future where she could “have it all” — being a successful professional while also being a perfect mom. This plan included her husband stepping into the role of a stay-at-home dad, which wasn’t a traditional setup but one that suited them well.

• The Reality of Motherhood:
  Their plans drastically changed when Jocelyn was born, as both mother and daughter spent time in the ICU. Heather reflects on how those early months tested her expectations. While she had prepared with books, classes, and years of experience as a social worker, nothing could prepare her for the realities of raising a very sick baby, managing medical appointments, and pumping while working full-time.

• The Shift to Stay-at-Home Mom:
  As Jocelyn’s needs became more complex, Heather made the difficult decision to leave her job and stay home full-time. She describes the overwhelming mental load that came with managing her daughter’s health and her social work responsibilities simultaneously. Despite the challenges, staying home allowed them to find a new sense of family rhythm and connection.

• Development and Milestones:
  As Jocelyn grew, the milestones that once felt distant started to become a reality. Heather shares her pride as Jocelyn began to walk, run, and even climb, which gave her a renewed sense of hope. Despite early setbacks, Jocelyn is now thriving, and Heather feels immense joy witnessing her progress.

• Community and Support:
  One of the biggest shifts Heather has experienced is in her sense of community. While the early months felt isolating, she now finds strength and purpose in the connections she’s built with her neighbors and friends. Support from loved ones and regular playdates have given her a sense of balance and relief.

• Self-Care and Embracing the Role:
  Heather never expected to love being a stay-at-home mom, but over time, she’s found a deep sense of fulfillment in caring for her home, her family, and herself. Despite the challenges, she’s been able to cultivate self-care routines and build a strong sense of community around her.

• A Reflection on Identity and Personal Growth:
  Heather opens up about the intense, sometimes disorienting experience of losing her sense of self in the early days of motherhood. She describes how her social work background helped her through some of the toughest moments, though it wasn’t until she found the courage to "show up" for herself that she truly started to feel like her pre-baby self again.

• Humorous Moments in Parenthood:
  From shopping trips to crafting at Hobby Lobby with Jocelyn, Heather shares funny, lighthearted anecdotes about the new normal of being a mom to a toddler. She finds humor in the chaos and celebrates the little victories along the way.

• Final Thoughts:
  Heather closes with a reflection on how much she’s grown in her new role. While the transition into motherhood wasn’t easy, she now feels deeply connected to her family, her work as Jocelyn’s personal social worker, and her community.

Key Themes:

• Parenthood and career shifts

• Mental load of motherhood

• Building community and support

• Embracing unexpected changes

• The evolution of self-identity

• Celebrating milestones and small victories

If you’re navigating a similar journey, or even if you're just curious about the unpredictable adventure of being a parent, you won’t want to miss this heartfelt conversation.

Where to connect with Heather Saylor, LCSW

Website: www.heartdrivecolorado.com

Business Instagram: @home.madebyheather.co

Personal Instagram to follow her and Joceyln’s story: @hedrbear