Coffee First, Mama Second, Me Always

  

Coffee First, Mama Second, Me Always

There’s a moment each morning that feels sacred.
It’s not when I wake up. Not when I change the diaper or prep the bottle or rescue the pacifier from under the crib.

It’s when I finally—finally—get to take that first sip of coffee.

That little moment? It’s not just about caffeine. It’s about me.

Because before I became a mama, I was a girl who savored mornings with a warm mug and quiet thoughts. I did some journalism. I thought of what my future would look like. I listened to music that fit the mood. And while the mornings look very different now—filled with baby babbles, burp cloths, and a wild dance to get anything resembling a routine in order—that girl is still in there.
 

She’s just a little buried under the laundry piles.

And on days when the coffee goes cold three times before I even taste it? I try to remind myself:
 

I still matter. Outside of how well I mom today. Outside of what gets checked off. Outside of how I show up for others. I still get to be me.

So here's a little list I made—five ways I'm making space for “More of Me” even in the middle of the mama madness:

 That First Sip Ritual – I try (keyword try) to hold that mug with both hands, close my eyes, and take a deep breath. One grounding second before the next need arises.

 Mini Playlists, Major Mood – A 3-song playlist that’s just for me—not lullabies or worship or white noise. It’s my mood booster while folding laundry or doing dishes.
 

A Lipstick Moment – Even if I’m in sweats, I swipe on a little lipstick or gloss. Just to remember I’m still her.

 One Page, One Chapter, One Poem – I keep a book or journal nearby and aim for a single bite of inspiration daily. No pressure, just presence.

  Saying Yes to Me Once a Day – Whether it’s saying yes to a midday stretch, texting a friend, or ordering the good creamer—one yes just for me.

Some days it works. Some days it doesn’t. But every day I’m learning that motherhood doesn’t have to mean losing myself.
It can mean meeting myself again—with deeper love, messier hair, and a stronger cup of coffee.

So here’s to the mamas who pour into others—but don’t forget to pour into themselves.

Coffee first. Mama second. Me always.