Every May, a little Facebook memory pops up that stops me in my tracks. It's from 2012, a short post, and a sleep-deprived mama (me) to a 4-month-old asking the internet for some guidance:

“I am looking for suggestions or a go to website for events/activities to with Monte and a way to meet other moms and babies. Anything would be helpful!”

That version of me had no idea that inquiry would plant the seed for something so much bigger.

At the time, I wasn’t thinking about building a business or launching a brand. I was just a new mom, navigating the early fog of motherhood, craving connection, routine, and something, anything, to do outside the house with my baby, Monte. Google searches were overwhelming or outdated. The parenting forums were clunky. And no one was really talking about what to do in Des Moines as a parent, in real time.

So I started gathering ideas. Writing them down. Sharing them. Slowly, on my very first website Midwest Mom & Wife. Not from a business plan, but from a very real need. My need. And I know now that if I needed it, others probably did too.

As I shared what Monte and I were doing around the Des Moines area, I started to realize something: these little entries, our everyday experiences, were resonating. Other parents started reaching out. They were following along. And they were looking for the same things I was. Simple, local ideas to get out of the house and make memories with their kids.

At the same time, I was following other bloggers across the country. Women sharing their lives online, building communities, and yes, even making a living doing it. It was inspiring. And eye-opening. I saw possibility in their stories. And I realized: Des Moines was missing this. Then came Des Moines Parent.

And here’s the thing I want to say to you today:

If you feel a need, a gap, a “why isn’t anyone doing this?” moment, pay attention.

Maybe that nudge turns into a thriving business. Maybe it becomes a creative outlet or hobby. Or maybe it's a simple solution that makes someone’s day a little easier.

Whatever it is, don’t ignore it.

You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need the courage to start. To try something, test an idea, ask the question out loud. Because the thing you’re looking for… someone else might be searching for it too.

Des Moines Parent wasn’t built overnight. It grew one blog post, one park review, one event share at a time. Often during nap time, snack time, and yes, sometimes instead of “me time.” It started with community, and that’s what keeps it going today.

So if you're in a season of dreaming, searching, or wondering "could I really do this?" — I'm here to tell you: Yes. You can.

The spark you're feeling isn’t random. It’s a sign.

Follow it.