Welcome to the story of how Leonard and his friends came to be. 

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Like most new parents, especially mothers, parenthood is a shock! The transition was extremely challenging and it took a year for me to even begin to start feeling like pre-pregnancy-self again. I used to love dabbling in creative projects, DIY around the house (for better or worse), cook everyday, and do anything else that "sparked joy" in that moment. 

 

After Miles was born, everything changed. Our whole life seemed to shift to survival-mode. We were constantly having to learn new things about childcare, while keeping up with our careers, household responsibilities, and make time for each other as partners. At some point, I lost interest in my hobbies, any sense of self-care, and honestly my overall identity outside of being "Miles' mom."

 

It was confusing because on one hand, I was suddenly blessed with a tiny human I loved more than I ever knew I could. But on the other, I had completely forgotten what it meant to love myself.

 

Then something magical happened when my infant became a toddler. He was feeding himself a little more, he didn't need to be latched on to me like a [cute] leech all day and night, he was sleeping better, and everything else that comes with toddler-hood! Suddenly I had more time to myself - more time to rediscover myself.

 

Then this story came to me as a silly idea right around Miles' first birthday. My husband and I both wear glasses and Miles felt that every pair was just another teething toy. His eagle eyes would spot them in any room and nothing motivated him to crawl faster than the idea of getting his sticky little fingers on them. How could I make him understand that we needed them to see and survive? Then it wasn't just a silly idea - I wanted to see it through. I was actually excited to write this down.  I was motivated to learn about a new project and that has only lead me to more ideas I can't wait to share. 

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So here's my project - throughout California, we have small "libraries" in various neighborhoods and playgrounds where folks can stop by to drop off or pick up books to read. I'll be leaving them wherever I see these (and that could be what lead you to my page today).

 

I hope a child gets to read this and that it makes them smile. Even better if another mother, or father, or anyone reading this is reminded that the tough days will get better. 

 

If you've found this page because you picked up a book, thank you for stopping by and learning about my story. Leave a note to let me know what you think! I'm well aware it's not perfect but hey, this is my journey and I'm better off today than I was a year ago.

 

Thanks again,

Connie (aka, Miles' mom)