Balancing Motherhood and Fulfillment: My Journey from Stay-at-Home Mom to Flower Farmer

For the past four years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of staying home full-time to raise my two children. In those early years, especially with my son Ollie, every day felt like an adventure. We filled our weeks with hiking, biking, library visits, open gym, and cozy days at home. I genuinely embraced my role as a full-time mom and “housewife,” and I didn’t mind the routine one bit.

But as the years went on, the repetition began to wear on me. What once felt joyful started to feel like Groundhog Day. The lack of personal direction and the constant cycle of caregiving took a toll on my mental well-being. My husband is a teacher, and his demanding schedule often left me with little opportunity to do anything outside of parenting.

One saving grace over the past four summers has been working part-time on a flower farm while my husband is off from school. Those months have consistently been my happiest—days filled with sunshine, dirt under my nails, physical work, and a break from the monotony of daily mom life.

This year, in March, I decided to try something new: bringing my daughter Olivia with me to the flower farm during the school year. Ollie, now 4.5, is in school part-time, so I’ve been working 2–3 days a week, part-time. And honestly, these last four months have been some of the best for my mental health in a long time.

Having a reason to get up and go somewhere—beyond school drop-offs and kid activities—has been transformative. Even earning a small paycheck felt empowering. I’ve found real fulfillment in contributing, working hard, and stepping into a space that’s my own.

Has it been easy having Olivia with me at the farm? Not at all. Has it been ideal for her to skip naps and spend long hours outside while I work? Probably not. Has she enjoyed it? Honestly, no. Do I feel guilty for needing this time and space? Yes, more than a little. But have I loved being able to both be a mom and do something just for me? Without a doubt—100%.

Here’s what I’ve come to believe: As moms, we give 80% (if not more) of ourselves to our children every single day. It’s okay—necessary, even—to claim that other 20% (if not more!) for ourselves.

I love my kids more than anything, and I wouldn’t trade the time I’ve had at home with them for the world. But finding something that’s mine—outside of motherhood—has been deeply healing and grounding.

If you’re a parent struggling in the thick of the routine, I see you. And if you’re wondering whether it’s selfish to carve out space for yourself, I promise you it’s not. It just might make you a better version of yourself—for you and for them.

Kelly Skaggs

Facilitator

Kelly Skaggs Doula & Lactation Services