Faithfully Lupe

When I first started my blog, I was a single mom to one amazing daughter, working full-time in a well-paid, fulfilling career that I loved. I had worked so hard to reach that position—I spoke it into existence and prayed for it along the way.

Back then, I finally felt like I was in a secure place to support my 13-year-old daughter and myself.

Today, though, I find myself in a very different season—one I never saw coming. In fact, it’s humbling to admit that I once judged women who were in this exact situation. I’d wonder, “Why are all these moms with their kids here in the middle of the day?” when I was out picking up lunch. Or I’d pick up my daughter from school, dressed in business attire, taking calls and answering emails, while I noticed other moms in leggings and messy buns. I’d scoff, not realizing their reality.

Looking back, I was so wrong. To any mom who’s ever stayed home, I apologize on behalf of all of us who might have judged you. The truth is, being a mom—no matter your career or lifestyle—is never easy. We need more grace for each other, knowing every mother’s path is challenging in its own way.

Staying home with my three youngest children over the past four years has been an adventure, to say the least. I had them all back-to-back, so I’d find myself six months postpartum, working to adjust and find my rhythm in this new phase of life—only to discover I was pregnant again!

Now, I know it’s easy for someone to ask, “Why not just go on birth control?” But after learning so much about my body—how I nourish it, and how I move it with exercise—I knew birth control wasn’t something I wanted to introduce into my system. But that’s a story for another day!

During this time, I’ve been on a journey to truly understand my body: figuring out why I’d lose hair after giving birth, understanding the shifts in how I felt, all while caring for three little ones and being present for my teenager. It’s been one of the most rewarding seasons of my life but also one of the most exhausting, physically and mentally. 

Sometimes, I catch myself wondering who I am beyond motherhood, questioning if I’m truly doing my best, or if there’s more I could do to care for myself, inside and out. It’s a balance—a mix of joy, self-reflection, and the constant desire to grow as a woman and mother.

Can I feel sexy again? Is it possible to reconnect with the side of me that felt alive and confident when I used to dance? Just saying the word “sexy” as a mom—some might wonder if it belongs in our vocabulary. Now, I wouldn’t suggest googling it! (insert laughing emoji) That search could lead you down a rabbit hole you probably don’t want to explore.

But really, I think “sexy” holds different meaning for everyone. For me, it’s about being exciting, feeling vibrant, and honoring my femininity. When I acknowledge that, I realize that’s the woman I’m reconnecting with. Yes, I’m a mom. It’s a role God entrusted to me, guiding four precious souls down a faithful path. But I am not just a mom. I’m a woman whose presence deserves to be celebrated and appreciated—first and foremost by myself. I want to be kind to myself, to extend grace when I need it. And I want to be open to the way others see themselves, allowing room for their own version of beauty and confidence, especially other women.

Sometimes, I catch myself being judgmental. But then I remind myself that I don’t know what journey brought another woman to where she is now. I don’t know her struggles, her heartbreaks, or what might be hidden behind her smile. I do know that I’ve been there too, longing for the same grace and understanding that I can offer others now.

Just five years ago, I was exploring what it meant to be that vibrant, magnetic woman. I was taking dance classes—finally pursuing something I’d always wanted to do—and lifting weights to build strength. Dancing was my creative outlet; it felt freeing to move, to express myself in a way that felt authentic and powerful.

But life has a way of shifting, and sometimes I find myself reminiscing about those quiet evenings on the couch. After long days working in Human Resources, I’d sit in silence, savoring the stillness. I remember one specific night, the TV softly humming in the background, and thinking, “There has to be more than this.” My daughter and I both hoped for a bigger family, and I told myself, “I better appreciate this silence because who knows what God has in store.”

It’s been over four years since I’ve had those moments of quiet solitude. In fact, it’s been just as long since I’ve slept more than 4-5 hours at a stretch! Sure, I miss peaceful sleep and those calm nights, but I’d never trade them for the fullness of life I have now.

These days, life is anything but silent. My days are filled with laughter, tears (sometimes mine!), and endless activity. Nights are often restless as my boys end up crawling into bed with me, seeking comfort in my presence. And soon enough, my youngest will be climbing out of her crib, wanting her spot next to mom.

I cherish those cozy snuggles, even if they come with little feet in my face and elbows in my side. There’s something deeply comforting about knowing they feel safest with me nearby. It’s in those moments I think, This is my purpose.

I’m a mom. I’m a woman fulfilling the role of motherhood. God chose me to lead, love, teach, and nurture these four beautiful souls.

When they scrape a knee, they come to me to make it better. When they wake up, they want to see my face first. When they need a snack or feel scared, they look for me, their mama.

Every day, my “mom brain” processes this reality. It’s humbling because I know the responsibility I hold. I owe it to them—and to myself—to be the best version of me. But just as importantly, I want them to know it’s okay to make mistakes. Mama isn’t perfect, and that’s perfectly okay.

As I continue on this journey of becoming a version of myself I can truly feel confident in, I’ve come to realize—it’s not a temporary path. I never want to stop growing, leveling up, and embracing my identity as both a vibrant woman and a present mother. So every day, I make space for grace—not just for myself, but for you, mama. For every woman, not only mothers, who could use a little extra kindness and compassion from the world and from each other.

The truth is, I’m going to keep tapping into that spark I feel when I dance. I love embracing the sexy, confident woman I know I am—the one who feels beautiful and alive. It’s a side of ourselves that many women lose as we settle into routines and comfort zones. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We can keep that vibrant part of ourselves alive, and I’m here to remind us all that it’s okay to feel that excitement again. It’s okay to feel and embrace your sexy side. The word itself isn’t vulgar or inappropriate—it’s simply others’ perceptions that may make it seem that way.

I hope that you, or the woman beside you, know you’re seen, valued, and deeply appreciated—for your presence, your strength, and all that you’re creating. This journey isn’t just about becoming; it’s about celebrating the incredible woman you already are.

I may not know what ignites your soul or brings you pure joy, but whatever it is—whatever gives you that thrill, like breathing in the scent of fresh flowers or makes you want to jump up and down with excitement—embrace it. Lean into it. Explore it fully. I dare you.

Faithfully celebrating & rejoicing, 

Lupe 🤍