This series on pregnancy and parenting was supposed to end last week, but I've felt on my heart all week an addition that just had to be shared. Honestly, it 's probably more for me than anyone--these thoughts and feelings swirling around inside of me like a jumbled mess.

This one's for all the tired and weary mama's out there. For those exhausted from the late-night feedings, part-time entertainment duties, and bouncy walks around the house. I know I fall into this category as a new mama and have from the moment I checked into the hospital to meet Roman. It only became harder adding back in full-time work, meeting a book deadline, and maintaining a healthy marriage.

Parenting is hard, am I right?! Not just physically either; it wears on you mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Mentally, I feel too tired at the end of the day to pick up a book or read the news. My mind is void of any current events or interesting facts. Instead, I feel like my conversations revolve around poopy diapers and spit-up fiascos.

Emotionally, the overwhelming love and concern for a child can itself be a lot to carry. No one tells you that when your heart is out there in the world how taxing it can be. The worry, questions, concerns. At not just in the love I carry for another, but I've had moments of feeling incredibly alone, a total mess, and a complete failure.

Spiritually, I feel so disconnected. Before motherhood, I always had these wonderful and regular devotional times free from distraction. Then, in the blink of an eye, I had this baby in my life that required so much of my time and attention. Prayers times and Bible reading became scattered; I've still yet to find a balance.

It's hard sharing some of these thoughts and feelings with you but I do because potentially you feel the same way. And I want you to know you're not alone. In fact, there are thousands of us mamas feeling the same way you do. We're all in this parenting journey together and must encourage each other along the journey. Because we get each other. We understand each other. So let's spur each other on in a way no one else can.

I spur you on today. Yes, it's hard. it's draining. BUT IT'S SO WORTH IT! Getting to hold your little one and kiss them on the forehead. Watching them doze off in your arms in the late night hours. Seeing them smile wide when you walk up. The sweet coo's and ahh's are endearing. And knowing that there's this part of you out there in the world who will always call you mom. YOU! Their mom.

You get to partake in one of the greatest gifts in the world: parenthood. It will be hard and weary in so many ways but it's worth it. So embrace it. Don't waste any moment. Your child needs your love, attention, example, and prayers. Your child needs YOU.

"Refresh my heart in Christ." Philemon 20b

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

A Beginner's Guide to Parenting // Tired & Weary Mama