Publisher, Nicole Baker and daughter, Madison
Spring is my favorite time of year. No matter how many trials and tribulations the last year represented or what a demanding jump start the New Year brought, there is something about the first white bloom of the Valley’s pear trees that seems to rejuvenate my soul and spirit. It’s a time of birth and new beginnings and this year I am counting on that energy to bring a new and better life to all of us.
I have been saddened to see the despair and struggles that families and friends have had to face this past year, myself not so far removed. But never more has the old saying “things happen for a reason” ever rung more true. For the first time in a long time we have been forced to sit down in the silence of ourselves and get back to the roots and core values on which we once based our futures. Dinner now represents a gathering every night, rather than an individual scavenger hunt. Chores and responsibilities are being owned by the entire family; and while at first there was resistance, how much closer have you become in the process? It’s amazing how such tragedy can bring new perspective to our lives and ultimately create amazing outcomes.
Spring for us this year represents a new birth and a new path in our own family’s journey. Our home is abuzz and a bit of a whirlwind as I “nest,” or more accurately, tear apart every closet and nook, waiting and preparing for my second daughter’s arrival. We are filled with anxious anticipation of what is to come – how she will forever reshape our lives and how we will help mold hers.
A new friendship is about to blossom, a sisterly bond that I pray will carry my girls through whatever comes their way. While it will no doubt be difficult for Madison to adjust to having a new sibling, I know that once the dust settles, she will have a best friend for life: someone to laugh with, to fight with and to love as her other half.
This Mother’s Day I find myself in a very different place than I was three years ago. At the time I was a brand new Mommy, wondering if I was making the best decisions and doing the right things for my child. I was unsure of where to turn for help and guidance and hindered by my own pride, in fear of failure and judgment. Now with the help of great people, like Amy Fienen, our editor-in-chief, our writers, photographers, and partners, we have created a place for women to turn to for the information and confidence they need to attack head on, the most important, demanding and yet fulfilling job they will ever employ… Motherhood.
I want to thank you all personally for joining our Totts family. Please take a little time this Mother’s Day to honor yourself, your own mother, and the many women around you who influence you and your family’s lives.
Best wishes and Happy Mother’s Day!
Nicole Baker
Publisher
