E L T E R N S E I N

PARENTING

Being pregnant is a challenge. Childbirth is exhilarating. Fatherhood is so important. Raising children is hard. We often tend to lose ourselves in the chaos or sometimes even forget who WE really are. But our little ones are so incredibly worth it.

In this blog post, we're not mincing words. We want to address things that nobody often talks about: pressure, fear, insecurity—feelings and truths that we need to bring to the forefront of our social world. We want YOU to feel the emotions and the love, and to remember the uniqueness of your journey as parents.

From the beginning of your journey to the end. We see you. We feel for you. We understand you. You are incredible. You are loved. You matter.

Here is your message. For each and every one of you.

For all the expectant mothers and fathers who have been trying to conceive and are still trying. It's frustrating waiting for that miracle and trying again and again without success – we know that you sometimes feel hopeless or disappointed. We feel for you and your partner, and we want you to know that you are not alone and that your moment will come, and you will hold your precious baby in your arms – you will look back and see that your journey was so incredibly worthwhile! You deserve to be happy – and you will be. ♥️

To the pregnant, expectant mother: We know you're tired. We know your daily routine has changed and you have to do without many things. We know your feet hurt and you miss sleeping on your belly. We know your body is going through so many changes that you might be feeling scared and overwhelmed.

Take a moment and pause. Do you even realize what you're actually accomplishing right now? Living! You are amazing and doing something magical. It's absolutely fine to rest, do nothing, and simply relax. You are beautiful. Your body is doing what it needs to. And it will settle back into your rhythm after the birth. Don't worry—everything will be alright.

For the parents of a newborn. We feel for you! We know you're tired and that your life has just undergone a massive change. We know you're dealing with things you've never experienced before. You're learning, changing, and growing by the minute. We know all these changes can be overwhelming and even put pressure on your relationship. We want to remind you that it was LOVE that brought you here. It was love that created this little miracle lying before you—and it will be love that carries you through all the difficult situations. This moment is not permanent, so cherish it and be present in the moment. You are strong enough to overcome any obstacle. Your baby needs you. You are their home now—your partner is by your side, and you will always have their shoulder to lean on, no matter what.

For the father who feels desperate and overwhelmed. We know it can be scary knowing there will be another human being to care for. We know it can be difficult to see your partner in pain and emotional distress during pregnancy. We know you may sometimes feel hopeless and scared, especially during childbirth. We want you to know that everything will be okay. You will be a wonderful father, and you are everything your family needs—you are the anchor of the family. We know you may feel excluded or neglected in the first few weeks or months. But give yourselves time to settle into your new rhythm as a family and establish your routines. Remember what made this special time so special—to your little miracle!

To the parents who are scared: Bringing new life into the world is not for the faint of heart. You will be giving up things you love. You will truly miss your sleep. You will become the most selfless version of yourself. But you will be amazing in your new role. You will be amazing parents because you are perfect just the way you are. You will do an incredible job, and your hard work, your amazing dedication, and your strong will to be the best parents for your little one will be noticed and appreciated.

To the couples trying to adopt a child: Fear and uncertainty are part of this journey, just as they are for any other expectant parent. We are so proud of you for taking this step and for showing yourselves tirelessly. You are a wonderful, strong couple. Your shared will and the love you want to give a child will be rewarded. You are making a difference, you are changing the world, and you are a true inspiration! We know you will find your perfect little companion, and if you have already found your treasure, we wish you the most incredible journey as a family. You can achieve anything through unity! ❣

To the same-sex couples who face daily judgment and challenges: You are heroes. Role models we need to thrive in this world. Sometimes it can be frustrating to be asked questions or given strange looks. We know you may face other, even more difficult challenges when it comes to adoption or assisted reproductive technology. But your courage is what drives us forward. You inspire others, and we know you are strong enough to overcome anything. You are a wonderful couple. When you follow your heart and do what feels right, always remember: love will always win.

To the parent raising their child alone. Being a single parent is quite possibly the hardest responsibility in the world. It can be exhausting and overwhelming to have to shoulder everything alone. You're doing an incredible job, and we see you. We see all your hard work, your sleepless nights, your fears and worries—we share your stress, and we have the utmost respect for you. You're always there for your child and so strong that you do it all on your own. They say it takes a village to raise a child, which makes you, as a single parent, a true superhero!

To those we haven't mentioned: You are no less important. We could go on forever acknowledging and appreciating every part of the parenting journey, each journey so different—but the end result is the same. To those willing to take on the responsibility of bringing life into the world and raising strong and compassionate children who will one day be the change. To those willing to change the things in life they love, to give their all for the future, and to learn the true meaning of selflessness, unconditional love, and patience. To everyone reading this:

YOU ARE VALUED.
YOU ARE NEEDED.
YOU ARE LOVE.
YOU ARE LIFE.

THIS MONTH IS FOR YOU - DEAR PARENTS!

We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for including us in the most magical journey of your lives.

Your Team Rookie ♥️