When I found out I was pregnant, I knew the transition to motherhood would have a unique set of challenges for me. I'd spent the last decade building my career across different industries, worked a physical job in my dream role, and had just entered a new relationship. When my son was born, I moved in with my in-laws and was a "mo-so" (mostly solo) mom while my husband attended school and worked full time, adding up to 18 hour days. Navigating postpartum mental health issues, physical recovery, interpersonal conflict, cultural differences, and the overall demands of a newborn baby posed a completely uncharted territory. Despite all the resources, social media connections, and in-person relationships I had, I felt incredibly isolated and struggled to take things day by day- sometimes hour by hour. Despite the challenges I made it through the first year, and the listening ears of other parents were a huge part in that for me. I'm hoping my journey can serve to encourage others.