The Farm Wife Sagas

Before having VJ, I was the employee who never missed a work event—the one who didn’t mind late nights, weekends, or extra hours. Even with a supportive, family-oriented director, I felt like I constantly needed to go above and beyond. But when I found out I was pregnant—and especially after VJ was born—I knew the 60+ hour work weeks were behind me. My priorities had shifted. Suddenly, there was someone else’s schedule to consider. Someone I needed to be present for.

These days, I feel incredibly blessed. I get to work alongside my family and even bring VJ with me. I’m also part of a dance studio that welcomes her with open arms, even when she tags along to class. And truthfully? She makes it more fun for my students, too!

One of the greatest benefits of my current season of life is working with and for people who understand the struggles of parenthood and the reality of shift schedules. Life with kids doesn’t always follow a plan. There are sick days, sleepless nights, last-minute changes, and unpredictable moments. Having coworkers and leaders who not only get it but extend grace in those moments is a gift. It takes away the pressure and guilt so many parents feel and replaces it with gratitude and peace.

To the moms and dads who are balancing work, parenting, and everything in between—know this: you deserve to be in spaces where both your role as a parent and your role as an employee are valued. Don’t underestimate the blessing of a workplace that sees you not just as a worker, but as a parent doing your best.

I never thought I would find myself teaching dance, but here I am—discovering a passion I didn’t know I had. The best part? I get to share it with my little girl by my side. And doing that in an environment that values both family and flexibility makes it all the more meaningful.

I also never imagined I’d get to work in not just one, but two places that feel like home: helping my parents with their graphics business and teaching at the dance studio. In both spaces, I feel like family. I feel needed for more than just accomplishing a task. I’m encouraged to grow, to learn, and to stretch myself. And at the end of the day, I know I’m building not just a résumé, but a life that I’m proud of.

✨ If you’re still searching for that balance, don’t lose heart—there are places and people out there who will value both your work and your role as a parent. It is possible to find a career that grows with you while still letting you show up for the moments that matter most.