In a candid reflection on her transition from a successful wedding photographer in New York to a stay-at-home mom in Illinois, Kelsey Combe shares her journey through motherhood during the pandemic. After giving birth to her first child in October 2019, her plans were upended by the COVID-19 crisis, leading her to embrace the role of a homemaker amidst the chaos.
Combe describes the overwhelming nature of full-time parenting, highlighting the constant demands of her children and the isolation that often accompanied her role. "I felt 'overwhelmed' as they were constantly around me, seeking my attention," she recalls. The challenges were compounded by a lack of personal time, with Combe admitting to showering just once a week due to the relentless responsibilities of parenting.
Despite the joys of motherhood, Combe emphasizes the emotional toll it took on her, noting that she often felt invisible and unheard. "We should stop telling women to be grateful and instead acknowledge the hard and isolating aspects of being a stay-at-home mom," she asserts.
After years of juggling her children’s needs and her aspirations, Combe made the decision in June 2023 to enroll her kids in daycare, recognizing the necessity of carving out time for her photography business. "Now that they are in daycare, I feel human again," she expresses, relishing the opportunity to manage her household without constant interruptions.
However, the financial burden of childcare remains a significant hurdle, with Combe wishing she could have returned to work sooner if daycare had been more affordable. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of modern motherhood and the need for support and understanding in navigating these challenges.