Life With a Three-Year-Old: The Chaos, the Magic, and the Moments That Shape Me as a Doula

Life with a three-year-old is a beautiful, wild adventure. Every day is packed with wonder, challenge, and so much love—all wrapped up in tiny hands, big questions, and a whole lot of energy. From the moment my little one wakes up until bedtime stories close the day; our house is full of life and learning.

One of my favorite things about parenting right now is watching my toddler’s curiosity bloom. Those endless “why” questions that start as a simple game and quickly turn into a journey through the world—like why the sky is blue or why leaves fall from trees—remind me to slow down and see the magic in everyday things. It’s like having a little explorer right by my side, always ready to discover something new.

There’s also the pure joy of those spontaneous moments: the belly laughs from a silly dance party, the warm snuggles when they’re tired, or the pride glowing in their eyes when they learn a new word or skill. It’s a rollercoaster, sure, but one filled with so much heart.

Parenting a three-year-old also means mastering the art of patience and flexibility. Plans can change in a heartbeat—what starts as a simple trip to the grocery store might turn into a full-on adventure with unexpected detours. And tantrums? They’re real, messy, and sometimes exhausting, but they’ve taught me to lean into compassion and to hold space for big feelings without rushing to fix them.

All these experiences—both the joyful and the challenging—deeply shape how I show up as a doula. They remind me that birth, like parenting, isn’t something you can control or perfect. It’s a living, breathing experience that calls for presence, openness, and trust. The patience I cultivate at home becomes the calm I bring to birth spaces. The empathy I develop through parenting helps me honor each family’s unique story without judgment.

Beyond the daily chaos, I cherish the quiet moments too. Watching my little one sleep peacefully, sharing a favorite storybook, or simply sitting outside together and noticing the world—these are the moments that recharge me and remind me why I love this work so much.

Living and parenting in Waco, and supporting families in nearby Temple, Killeen, and Gatesville, I feel grateful to be part of such vibrant communities. Being a parent here grounds me in the real-life experiences of the families I serve. It’s a shared journey of growth, learning, and love.

Gentle Reflections From My Parenting Journey:

• It’s okay to embrace imperfection. Some days are messy, loud, and unpredictable—and that’s where the real magic happens. Perfection isn’t the goal; connection is.

• Trust your instincts. Whether you’re soothing a toddler meltdown or navigating birth decisions, your intuition is a powerful guide. Listen to it.

• Presence is the greatest gift. Showing up, fully and without distraction, means more than any perfect plan or solution ever could.

• Big feelings need space. Whether it’s frustration, joy, or fear, honoring emotions without rushing to fix or minimize them creates deep trust and safety.

• Celebrate the small victories. Every new word, every peaceful night, every moment of calm is a milestone worth cherishing.

Thank you for letting me share a little bit of my world with you. If you’re parenting or preparing to become a parent, remember you’re not alone in the beautiful chaos of this journey. There’s a whole community walking alongside you.