UPDATE: A mother of three has taken a bold step by leaving her in-laws’ lake house in Northern New York five days early, igniting a viral discussion on social media regarding the pressures faced by mothers. Kelly Hubbell, 37, from Portland, Oregon, made the decision after feeling overwhelmed during the family’s annual summer trip.
Each year, Hubbell and her children—ages 6, 4, and 2—travel a grueling distance that includes a five-hour flight, a two-hour drive, and a ferry ride. “It’s beautiful, nostalgic, and full of people we love,” Hubbell stated, but this summer was different. She described the experience as “a lot,” especially with her toddler newly crawling and her own health in decline.
Hubbell reached her breaking point during a six-hour barbecue on the water. “With three kids going in three directions and no one else actively on duty, I was maxed out,” she shared. The decision to leave early surprised her family, including her husband, who ultimately supported her choice.
In a powerful social media post on Instagram, which has garnered thousands of views, Hubbell opened up about the “invisible pressure” that many mothers face during such family gatherings. “I’ve often felt a quiet pressure—whether internal or societal—to be the one who keeps the peace,” she explained. This emotional labor is a burden many mothers silently shoulder until they can no longer cope.
The response to her decision has been mixed. While many moms commended her for prioritizing her mental health, some comments—particularly from men—criticized her for not conforming to traditional expectations of motherhood. “Most of the harshest comments came from men, and they all carried the same message: moms should be quiet, grateful, and do it all without complaint,” Hubbell remarked. Yet, she remains undeterred, determined to amplify her message that mothers deserve support.
Hubbell is the founder and CEO of Sage Haus, a company dedicated to helping families manage their household needs by hiring house managers and meal prep chefs. Her experience has only strengthened her resolve to advocate for mothers before they reach burnout. “You are not failing because you need help,” she emphasized. “You are functioning in a broken system, and if something isn’t working, you’re allowed to say so. You’re allowed to walk away. You’re allowed to protect your peace.”
As this story continues to resonate across social media platforms, it highlights the urgent need for discussions about the challenges mothers face in balancing family expectations and personal well-being. The debate surrounding Hubbell’s decision underscores the shifting perceptions of motherhood and the importance of prioritizing mental health.
What happens next? Keep an eye on social media as more mothers share their experiences and support for Hubbell’s stance grows. This conversation is just beginning, and it could lead to broader discussions about the pressures women face in family dynamics.