My children like my husband more than me.

Personal space is not an idea that many children concern themselves with, especially when it comes to invading the personal space of their parents.

When my husband suggested that we both check out of our family life for a weekend away after a work conference he would be attending in San Francisco, I was thrilled.

In that moment, I knew that I would always be okay.

For first-time moms and rusty daters alike, here are five mom-dating tips to snag that perfect mom friend.

Now I can see the strength in a calm center, the strength in a quiet voice, the strength in a deep breath, the strength in releasing emotion through tears.

I only have a glimpse of it now but I think I’m starting to understand that we are parents forever.

I have learned so much…about addiction, about love, about my husband, about myself, about forgiveness and acceptance and everything in between.

I found myself by the fire with a sleeping baby across my lap, so content to be that mama. The one who spent her ski day on the bottom half of the mountain. Teaching, carrying, holding, schlepping, feeding, rocking, documenting, encouraging. A different kind of badass.