I think we can all agree 2020 has been a year we will never forget.
The beginning of the year was full of so much hope for a new decade. Then COVID hit and it felt like everything was uncertain. Schools and businesses closed and many of us spent more time home with our immediate family than ever before. As moms, we were expected to not only feed and love our children but also educate them while figuring out how to navigate a world of masks, fear, and isolation. We learned how strong we are and through some of the hardest days and weeks, we found joy in slowing down.
This summer, our city and our nation was broken over race, violence, police brutality against African Americans, discrimination, and hate. In August, we were hit with a Derecho, damaging countless homes and businesses, and the fall held a contentious election, more school closures, and continued stress from the pandemic.
A bright spot of 2020 was rebranding from Des Moines Moms Blog to Des Moines Mom. Our vision continues to be creating a space for Des Moines moms to hear and be heard without judgment. Whether you have young kids or school-aged kids, work outside the home or stay home, are single or divorced, we are all just doing our best to raise our kids with love and take care of ourselves!
These stories are only a sample of Des Moines Mom. Our contributors share personal stories of loss, victory, tips, tricks, and humor. They offer a glimpse of what it looks like to be a mom in Des Moines!
Before we say goodbye to 2020, we wanted to take a minute to reflect on the highlights of 2020. Now more than ever, we know we are Better Together!
Here the 10 most-read posts from 2020
Where to Go Creek-Walking
Find the best places to get off the beaten path and get a little wet.
Confessions of a Cookie Mom
Why selling Girl Scout cookies is both wonderful and challenging.
Advice from a Boy Mom
As a boy mom, I’ve learned a lot and have come to embrace the title.
Raising Racially Educated Children in a Biracial Home
How our biracial household addresses issues of race.
Raising Black Children in Iowa
My life experiences molded me into a strong Black girl who grew into the strong Black woman I am today.
What's Your Family's Quarantine Level?
The words social distancing, quarantine, and COVID-19 have become part of our regular vocabulary. Where does your family fall?
We Took a Family Vacation During a Pandemic
My family decided to take a vacation during the COVID Pandemic. Here’s why.
5 Ways to Celebrate a Birthday Virtually
Birthdays are different during a pandemic, but there are plenty of ways to still make them special!