Meet Casey Manser

Hello fellow moms! I am so excited to begin this journey as a contributor to Des Moines Moms Blog and I can’t wait to continue to build my village through the connections with you all.

I am an Iowa captive by way of Alabama. Even though I have spent most of my life here those southern roots run deep. I still use y’all as a pronoun, say yes ma’am and no sir, drink sweet tea, and cheer loudly for my alma mater– Auburn (War Eagle anyone?). While I still enjoy visiting the plains of Alabama and seeing my extended family in the south, I am proud to now call Iowa home.

I live in Urbandale with my husband, our four-legged first born (she’s a dog, don’t worry), and human daughter who joined us in July of 2018. My husband is a first responder. He works a very weird schedule causing some unique challenges when it comes to child rearing. I am so thankful to have parents close by and friends who “get it.”

I work with children at a local hospital as a Child Life Specialist part time and have a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood and Family Development. None of my formal education or work experience prepared me for this wonderful but sometimes very scary journey of motherhood.

Following the birth of my daughter, I quickly learned that in the midst of this beautiful and joyous time of becoming a mom, motherhood is also messy, frustrating, and hard. I struggled with a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. I had constant feelings of not doing or being enough. With an amazing support system and professional help I have learned to cope with my anxiety and have found strength in my village. Sarcasm and regular “moms night out” are also effective coping mechanisms.

Everyday I am learning how to be the mom I am and not the mom I thought I would be. I am finding confidence in knowing I am the best mom for my baby. 

My “type A” personality has always thrived on routine. Since becoming a mom I am slowly working to accept that my control is severely limited. Watching my daughter learn and grow is life-giving. Although there are challenges (like a lot) every day there is a moment that can be found that is a blessing. Even if that moment is very brief and occurs during nap time. 

The biggest thing that has helped me successfully transition into my role as a mom is knowing I am not alone. Knowing there are other moms out there who feel like I do, who wonder and question like me. That is why I love the community of Des Moines Mom Blog. I am excited to be a part of connecting families.

When I have “down time” I enjoy reading historical fiction books, watching Netflix, and baking. I specialize in boxed brownies. I would love to talk more with you! You can reach me at [email protected].