The Reclamation Era

The Reclamation Era focuses on midlife, single motherhood, and neurodivergence. It explores themes of self-discovery, parenting, mental health, and societal expectations. The posts highlight the complexity of personal growth, relationship challenges, and the pursuit of authenticity and self-care during transitional life stages.

Midlife Single Motherhood Neurodivergence Self-Discovery Parenting Mental Health Societal Expectations Personal Growth Relationships Authenticity Self-Care

The hottest Substack posts of The Reclamation Era

And their main takeaways

Introducing The Breadcrumbs Project

79 implied HN points • 05 Sep 23

Nostalgia is powerful, and many people feel a strong pull to revisit their childhood homes and memories. It's important to acknowledge how these experiences have shaped who we are today.
The 'I Am From' poem is a great tool to explore and express our backgrounds and stories. Writing about our past can reveal how childhood experiences influence our adult lives.
The Breadcrumbs Project invites people to share personal essays about their experiences with 'going home.' It's a way to connect over shared memories and celebrate our unique journeys.

My Shameful Secret About Motherhood

79 implied HN points • 15 Aug 23

It's okay not to enjoy every moment of parenting. Many parents feel overwhelmed, and it's normal to prefer time alone or in smaller doses with kids.
Finding a balance between personal space and family time is important. Moments spent together can be precious, but having time for yourself is equally valuable.
As kids grow, parenting can become more enjoyable and less exhausting. The humor and independence that develop can make for better family dynamics and shared experiences.

Gen X Women: The Forgotten Barbie Movie Audience

79 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23

🎭️ Culture Film Feminism Generations Women Nostalgia

Gen X women are often overlooked, especially regarding popular culture like movies. Many believe that younger generations are the main audiences, but Gen X has significant feelings about these films too.
Watching the Barbie movie brought a mix of laughter and emotions for Gen X women. They connected deeply with its themes, relating to their own experiences as moms and through midlife challenges.
The movie resonates with older women who feel seen and heard, emphasizing the importance of their perspectives. Their reactions show that they have rich stories and feelings that matter, even if they're not always highlighted.

How To Ruin a Massage in 22 Carefully Plotted Steps

59 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Self-care Mental health Parenting Personal narrative

Many people struggle to fully enjoy self-care activities, like massages, because their minds are racing with thoughts. Instead of relaxing, they often find themselves worrying about the time left and what comes next.
Using distractions, like thinking about past experiences or future pleasures, can prevent someone from truly being present during enjoyable moments. This makes it harder to savor the experience.
Finding ways to manage anxious thoughts can help people enjoy self-care more. For example, recognizing that it's okay to let thoughts come and go can improve relaxation.

Main Character Mommy

59 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23

Being a mom does not mean you have to hide your true self. You can be loud, fun, and expressive without feeling guilty.
There's pressure for moms to be in a supporting role instead of being the main character in their own lives. It's okay to take center stage.
Society often portrays moms with big personalities in a negative light, but being a joyful and free-spirited mom doesn't have to come with a tragic backstory.

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My Favorite Kind of Therapy

59 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-care Coping Strategies

Therapy can really help people understand themselves better and improve their relationships. Many different kinds of therapy exist, and it's important to find the right fit for you.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, often called 'parts work,' can be life-changing. It's about understanding the different parts of ourselves and how they influence our thoughts and feelings.
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. It's a way to gain self-awareness and cope with life's challenges effectively.

The First Road Trip

59 implied HN points • 11 Sep 23

📚 Literature Memoir Narrative Parenting Travel Family

Taking a long car trip can be stressful but also a chance for special memories. It's all about managing the chaos and making the best of the journey.
Family homes hold a lot of sentimental value, and saying goodbye can bring up deep feelings. It’s tough to let go of places that hold childhood memories.
Being a mom means constantly trying to prove you're doing well, even when things get chaotic. It’s important to cherish moments with family, despite the challenges.

Trash and Magic

39 implied HN points • 04 Dec 23

Finding old writing can bring back memories and feelings from different times in your life. It helps you reconnect with who you were and what you felt.
Sometimes, taking a break from routine or being sick can reset your priorities. It can also allow you to focus on what truly matters, like spending quality time with loved ones.
Life has ups and downs, and it's important to embrace both. Even when things are tough, small moments of joy and connection can happen unexpectedly.

Watch Out For That One

39 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23

We need to be careful about how we talk about young girls and their sexuality. Comments like 'Watch out for that one!' can send the wrong message about their worth.
There's a big difference between being sexual and being sexualized. Girls should feel empowered to enjoy their bodies and their choices without feeling judged.
Open conversations about sexuality, respect, and empowerment are crucial. As parents, we should focus on supporting girls in being themselves and feeling confident.

Second Degree Fun

39 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23

It's important to accept the things we can't change in our daily lives, like our pets' quirks. Instead of getting annoyed, we can choose to enjoy the moments and let go of frustration.
We often rush through life and forget to appreciate the small moments. Taking time to play or relax, even when we have a to-do list, can bring us happiness and help us live fully.
Being present and enjoying experiences is more fulfilling than just checking off tasks. It's about truly experiencing life, like enjoying a moment on stage, rather than just wanting to have it done.

Breadcrumbs Across the Midwest

59 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23

🏝 Travel Road trips Memoir Friendship Childhood Nostalgia

The journey back to childhood places can help remind us of who we used to be. It's powerful to reflect on different versions of ourselves and what we once loved.
Reconnecting with old friends and sharing memories can be healing. Those deep connections from our youth can still bring joy and support in adulthood.
Embracing our past experiences, both good and bad, is important for personal growth. Sometimes we need to revisit those times to realize how much we've changed and appreciate our current selves.

The Breadcrumbs Project: My Sister's Hand

39 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23

🎭️ Culture Memories Childhood Relationships Storytelling

The bond between siblings is special and unique. Growing up with a brother or sister creates a connection that nobody else can replicate.
Sharing childhood memories can strengthen sibling relationships. These memories can serve as comforting reminders of support and love, especially during tough times.
Rituals between siblings, like saying goodnight, create lasting emotional ties. These small gestures can help foster a sense of security and connection that lasts into adulthood.

What Do You Need?

39 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23

Understanding what we need can be tough, especially when we feel overwhelmed. It's okay to feel like you need support without worrying about being seen as petty.
Complaining can be a helpful way to process emotions, but it's important to find balance with gratitude. Celebrating small wins can help lift our spirits.
Talking openly about our struggles with friends can be comforting. It's good to have someone you can share your feelings with without fear of judgment.

Changing Directions at Midlife

79 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23

📚 Literature Writing Publishing Personal Growth Anecdotes Creative Process

It's okay to change your path in life, especially during big transitions like midlife. Making changes can bring peace and excitement.
Taking care of your health is really important. Prioritizing well-being can lead to new opportunities and passions.
Writing a book can be a fulfilling goal, and sharing the journey can inspire others. Embrace the ups and downs along the way.

Can We Talk About Adult ADHD?

39 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23

🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health ADHD Awareness Self-care Therapy Parenting

Many adults wonder if they have ADHD, especially those who felt different or struggled with attention in school. It's common to want a diagnosis but also feel unsure about whether it’s necessary.
Life can be really overwhelming for many people today, making it hard to distinguish between ADHD and general stress. Everyone feels scattered and busy, but it doesn’t always mean they have a condition.
Questions about ADHD often arise from personal experience, and many seek understanding and connection with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences can help untangle feelings of confusion and inadequacy.

My Favorite Moments from The Eras Tour

39 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23

🎶 Music Artists Albums Concerts Reviews Culture

Taylor Swift's music can really resonate with personal transformations, making her songs feel like a soundtrack to life changes.
The Eras Tour featured many of her popular albums, like Folklore and Midnights, which excited fans and created memorable experiences.
Many people find joy and connection through live concerts, which can leave a lasting impact and be worth every penny spent.

Breadcrumbs Across the Midwest

39 implied HN points • 24 Jul 23

🏝 Travel Travel Stories Personal Growth Food experiences Cultural Exploration

Finding familiar places from the past can bring back strong memories, even if you're not great with directions. It feels almost magical when old apartments and favorite coffee spots just appear as you wander.
Experiencing places you once knew can provide comfort and a sense of peace. It's like a reminder that even the difficult times can lead to personal growth and a better self.
Spending quality time with loved ones while revisiting old haunts can deepen connections. It's a chance to enjoy each other in a relaxed way, away from everyday distractions.

Following My Trails of Breadcrumbs

39 implied HN points • 27 Jun 23

📚 Literature Memoir Writing Travel Nostalgia Personal Growth

The journey of writing a memoir is ongoing and personal. It involves revisiting places and memories that shape who we are.
Nostalgia plays a big role in the writing process. Going back to old homes and memories helps clarify thoughts and feelings.
The experience of retracing past steps can bring unexpected gifts, making the journey as meaningful as the final product.

The Breadcrumbs Project: My Childhood Bedroom

19 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23

🎭️ Culture Nostalgia Childhood Memory Personal narrative Home

Childhood bedrooms often hold deep emotional memories and nostalgia. They can evoke strong feelings as we reflect on our past adventures and experiences.
Visiting a childhood home can bring back vivid memories and allow us to see how much has changed—or stayed the same—over the years.
Details like decor, colors, and furniture in a childhood room can tell stories and create comfort, making them feel special and timeless.

When Your Kid's Christmas Present Sucks

19 implied HN points • 24 Nov 23

Kids can easily mess up holiday expectations, leading to disappointment for parents too. It's common to hope for a perfect holiday experience, but reality often falls short.
Baking and activities that are meant to be fun can sometimes turn into solo efforts when kids lose interest. It's okay to enjoy these moments alone and focus on what makes you happy.
Christmas morning can bring big surprises, but not always the ones we want. It's a reminder that holiday magic doesn't always go as planned, and that's part of the journey.

If I Don't Write It Down, Will I Remember It?

19 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23

📚 Literature Writing Creativity Memoir Childhood

Writing down memories and thoughts can help preserve them better. This practice helps keep our experiences alive even as time passes.
Childhood experiences shape who we are and influence our creative paths. It's important to acknowledge how these moments impact our lives.
The bond between siblings is unique and plays a significant role in our storytelling. Sharing these stories can strengthen relationships and inspire creativity.

Let's Talk About the Seasonal Target Birds

19 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23

🎭️ Culture Holidays Traditions Family Decor Nostalgia

Collecting seasonal birds from Target can become a fun and obsessive hobby. It brings joy to many people during holidays like Christmas and Halloween.
There are different categories for these decorative birds, such as Merry, Whimsy, and Rustic, allowing collectors to classify them creatively. People even sort themselves into bird types like a fun personality quiz.
Finding and completing the collection of these birds can be challenging, with some sold out quickly and others listed on resale sites for much higher prices. It creates a thrill in the hunt for the perfect bird.

Hello, again.

79 implied HN points • 16 Aug 22

Writing is important and should be done for enjoyment, not just for publishing or achieving goals. It's about the process and the joy of creating.
Perfectionism can hold you back from doing what you love. It's okay to write freely, even if it feels messy at first.
Returning to routines, like writing, can be energizing and help clear your mind, especially after time spent with family.

Mom Guilt, Then and Now.

19 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23

Parents can't do everything for their kids, and that's okay. It's important for children to experience life's struggles and learn how to cope.
As kids grow, feelings of guilt can change and evolve. It may feel heavier at times but can also provide deeper insights into parenting.
It's healthy to share experiences and connect with others about parenting challenges. Events like 'Listen To Your Mother' help celebrate these shared stories.

My Dark Night of the Soul in a Crappy Hotel in Kearney, Nebraska

19 implied HN points • 19 Sep 23

Change can be really tough, especially when moving away from familiar places. It's normal to feel nostalgic and uncertain about new environments.
Parents are human too, and it's okay to show emotions, even when things get overwhelming. Kids can learn empathy and strength by seeing how we cope.
It's important to embrace our past and find meaning in our experiences. Reflecting on where we've been can help us understand ourselves better.

Better late than never. . .

59 implied HN points • 12 Oct 22

🎭️ Culture Parenting Self-care Creativity Personal Growth Writing

It's okay to take your time when starting something new, like writing. Commit to it, even if it feels hard at first.
Sometimes, life gets busy and it's hard to carve out time for yourself. Finding moments for small pleasures can make a big difference.
Asking for help can feel tricky, but it's important to lighten your load and take breaks when you need them. Everyone needs support, even moms!

Have You Heard This Annoying Expression?

39 implied HN points • 15 Feb 23

🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Self-care Motherhood Language Society

The phrase 'taking a selfish' is seen as a demeaning way to describe women taking care of themselves. It makes self-care sound bad or wrong.
Women often shrink their choices to trendy terms instead of proudly pursuing what makes them happy. This reflects societal pressures and expectations.
It's important to recognize that self-care decisions shouldn't be labeled as selfish, especially when men rarely face the same judgement for doing things they enjoy.

I Saw Taylor Swift and Tori Amos in One Week, And I Have Some Thoughts.

19 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23

🎶 Music Concerts Artists Feminism Songwriting Cultural influence

Attending concerts can have a huge emotional impact, offering a sense of renewal and connection, especially when shared with loved ones. Going to the Taylor Swift concert was a transformative experience for a mother and her daughters.
Music can deeply influence our lives and relationships, helping us feel understood during tough times. The connection between a fan's experience of one artist can be just as meaningful as another's, regardless of mainstream popularity.
Both Taylor Swift and Tori Amos are important artists who have made significant contributions to music in their own ways. It's essential to appreciate and respect different musical journeys and not dismiss what someone else loves.

A Morning Person, Finally?

59 implied HN points • 24 Aug 22

Waking up early can create peaceful and productive mornings. It's nice to enjoy quiet moments before the day gets busy.
Managing the back-to-school transition can be overwhelming for parents, especially with kids moving to new stages. It's like having a full-time job on top of everything else.
Making small changes to morning routines can lead to positive feelings. Even if you're not naturally an early riser, it can be rewarding to embrace the morning and enjoy little rituals.

10 Ways To Fix All Your Parenting Problems

39 implied HN points • 01 Dec 22

Parents often want to hear real and relatable stories about the struggles of everyday parenting rather than just tips and tricks.
It's okay to feel overwhelmed and frustrated; many parents share similar feelings about their challenges.
The focus should be on honest experiences in parenting rather than polished advice, creating a space for connection among parents.

Maiden, Mother, Bitch

19 implied HN points • 17 Jun 23

🎭️ Culture Feminism Aging Motherhood Society Personal Growth

Aging can be challenging in a culture that values youth and beauty. It's important to embrace the changes that come with growing older.
The journey through motherhood brings different emotions and challenges at each stage. It's okay to feel frustrated or annoyed sometimes.
Self-reflection can lead to personal growth and gratitude. Learning to appreciate where you are in life can bring unexpected rewards.

How to Curate Your Own Midlife Crisis

2 HN points • 04 Mar 24

🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Life Changes Personal Growth Self-discovery Parenting

Midlife can feel like a time of big questions about who we really are. It's a moment to reflect on our lives and make changes if we need to.
Going through difficult times, like health issues or family challenges, can lead to personal growth. Embracing these challenges can help us find new paths and passions.
Taking time for self-discovery is important. Looking deep inside ourselves and exploring our feelings can lead to better understanding and make us feel more fulfilled.

Coming soon

0 implied HN points • 16 Aug 22

The newsletter will focus on the ups and downs of motherhood. It's a space to share both funny and serious experiences.
The content is designed to be relatable for those navigating life and growing up.
It's a new project, aimed at creating a community around shared parenting stories and insights.

Sometimes Music Is Just Better Than Words

0 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23

🎶 Music Playlists Emotions Memories Curation Personal Stories

Music often expresses feelings that words cannot. Sometimes, when we struggle to find the right words, a song can say everything we need to convey.
Letting go can be tough, whether it's memories, beautiful moments, or the seasons changing. It's important to appreciate what we have rather than hold on too tightly.
Creating playlists for different moods can help us connect with our emotions. Curating music is a way to remember and feel, making tough times a little easier.

For the Moms Who Feel Like Impostors

0 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24

Many moms feel like they're not doing a good job and worry that they're failing at motherhood. It's a common struggle.
Neurodivergence, like ADHD, can make motherhood feel even harder. It impacts how women manage their responsibilities and emotions.
It's important to understand that you're not alone in feeling this way. Lots of moms share similar feelings of inadequacy and guilt.

The Hills of Iowa

0 implied HN points • 25 Mar 24

🎭️ Culture Memory Travel Friendship Nostalgia Personal Growth

Visiting familiar places can bring back vivid memories and feelings. The author felt a deep connection to her childhood home in Iowa when she saw the juniper bushes again.
Traveling with loved ones can strengthen bonds and create joyful experiences. The trip helped the author reconnect with her best friend and reminisce about their past together.
Seeing old locations from a new perspective can highlight changes over time. The author noticed how her old living spaces had deteriorated but still held cherished memories.

I Apologize for My Memoir

0 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23

🎭️ Culture Literature Comedy Satire Memoir Storytelling

The author is excited to share a new satirical piece they've published, reflecting on the challenges of writing a memoir. It's important for writers to balance their own experiences with how their audience might feel.
They recently enjoyed the Eras movie with friends and family, which stirred up fond memories of attending a Taylor Swift concert. The film resonated deeply with them.
There's an upcoming storytelling event in Denver that promises a mix of laughter and connection. It's a chance for locals to come together and enjoy personal stories.