Beth Montgomery

Jan 14, 2025 | cpbj.com | Beth Montgomery

Welcome to 2025. New year, new reflections, and honestly? A whole lot of soul fatigue I wasn’t prepared for. I thought becoming an empty nester would bring more freedom, more time to focus on myself—and sure, it has. But what no one tells you is how deeply tired you might feel when the survival mode of raising kids finally lets up. I’ve been a single mom since 2012, running on a steady diet of responsibility, to-do lists, and “what’s next?” The holidays were no different.

Nov 19, 2024 | cpbj.com | Ioannis Pashakis |Beth Montgomery

When my kids were younger, I didn’t have to think twice about holiday plans. We were all under the same roof, and no matter what, I knew we’d be together. Now that they’re older, with their own packed schedules, carving out that family time is…different. Let’s just say, I don’t take it for granted anymore. And while there’s a bittersweet edge to the changing dynamics, I’ve found a few ways to make this season meaningful—even if it’s not as “picture perfect” as it used to be.

Oct 15, 2024 | cpbj.com | Beth Montgomery

I never thought I’d be here, celebrating my fifth Sober October. Five years ago, I couldn’t have imagined my life without alcohol. I was part of the “wine mom” culture—living in a world where “mommy needs her wine” was practically a badge of honor. Did I have an obvious problem? Not according to society’s standards. I hadn’t lost my kids, I had a good job, I didn’t need a drink first thing in the morning, no DUIs or arrests, and I showed up to my kids’ functions sober.

Sep 17, 2024 | cpbj.com | Beth Montgomery

When I imagined the day my kids would leave home, I thought I knew how I’d feel—maybe a little sad, a little nostalgic, but mostly proud and excited for their new adventures. What I didn’t expect was the tidal wave of emotions that would hit me. As a sober mom, I’m feeling everything—and I mean everything. Without the numbing comfort of a drink to smooth out the edges, I’ve found myself riding an emotional rollercoaster that I wasn’t quite prepared for.

Aug 13, 2024 | cpbj.com | Beth Montgomery

Hindsight is a powerful thing. As I look back on my years as a single mom of elementary-aged kids, I realize there are so many things I’d do differently if given the chance. But I can’t go back, and that’s okay. I did the best I could with what I knew at the time. Still, if I could offer any wisdom to other single parents, here are the top five things I’d change if I could do it all over again. Be Kinder to MyselfI was my own worst critic (and honestly, still can be).