The Balancing Act: Being a working mom to Mary Lou

Before I became a mom, I thought I had a good grasp on time management, or at least MY VERSION of time management. Real estate is a busy, somewhat unpredictable world—showings at dinner time, early morning phone calls, weekend open houses. I thought I had mastered the hustle. And then came Mary Lou.

Becoming a mom cracked my heart wide open in the best way, but it also completely redefined what balance looks like. My days now start earlier and end later. My to-do list includes both scheduling showings and finding the missing paci. And sometimes, the car seat in the back of my car is the only thing reminding me to slow down and breathe.

Real estate doesn’t pause for motherhood, and motherhood doesn’t pause for real estate. There have been days I’ve taken client calls with a baby on my hip. I’ve written offers with one hand while holding a bottle in the other. I’ve learned to cherish the quiet moments in between—when Mary Lou laughs at something only she finds funny, or when she finally drifts off to sleep and I can just sit in the stillness and remember why I work so hard.

Being a working mom means I don’t get everything perfect. There are missed workouts, forgotten snacks, late-night laundry marathons. But it also means Mary Lou gets to see her mama chasing dreams, building relationships, and showing up—every single day. I hope one day she understands that I worked not just for our family, but because I believe in what I do.

And truthfully, I think she already knows. She claps when I come back from showings and listing appointments, babbles in the background during Zoom calls, and lights up when we pull into the driveway together. She’s my reason and my reminder all at once.

So to the other moms juggling work, life, and motherhood—whether you’re crushing it today or just surviving—I see you. It’s messy and beautiful and exhausting and empowering. And we’re doing it.

Thanks for being part of my village—clients, friends, and fellow moms. You make the balance possible.

With gratitude (and probably a cold cup of coffee),

Mary Reames & the littlest achiever, Lou Lou Taylor

ERA Wilder Realty | Realtor | Mama to Mary Lou

Looking to buy or sell a home in the Midlands? I’d love to be part of your journey. Let’s connect—DM me, call/text (803) 900-0799, or follow along on Instagram and Facebook @maryreameserarealtor.