Motherly Stories

What I wish people understood about raising biracial children

The racial climate of our society creates the responsibility for me to teach my children how the world perceives them: Black.

To the mama who has a strained relationship with her mother-in-law: You’re not alone

It is a different kind of grief to carry.

On wondering if I’m a good mother to all of my boys

"Finding the balance between being a good mother for my rare disease warrior and my other two boys can be very difficult and overwhelming."

Our son thanked us for ‘redshirting’ him in kindergarten

Reaching adulthood is not a race. I think we’d all enjoy an extra year of childhood if we had the chance.

Yes, I’m a mother—but my marriage is still a priority

Prioritizing your spouse doesn’t mean that you’re neglecting your kids—it means you're nurturing their foundation.

To my only child: Thank you for your patience as I learn how to be a mother

Because in becoming a mother, I am something and someone who I have never been before.

Preschool graduation is a bittersweet milestone

Sometimes, even the happy moments can bring us to tears because we are so invested in each phase of our child’s life.

Mama, your time is precious too

You have 24 hours each day, but somehow they pass without you stealing a single second for yourself.

Women need other women in their lives who will support them unconditionally

Because as women, sisterhood is the fabric of our existence. It is the pillar of our foundation and the firmness of our being.

Dear Son: You didn’t ask to be a big brother but I’m so glad you are

The days are long right now, but it makes me so excited about seeing you two grow up together.

My professional priorities have shifted since becoming a parent–but not how I expected them to

There’s no way to know with certainty what it will feel like to become a mother, let alone what it will feel like to become a working mother.

New breastfeeding recommendations may do more harm than good without support for moms

While there is much to celebrate with this updated guidance, there is something important missing from the equation: support. 

What your daughter learns when she sees you confident in your body

Our girls are watching us and listening to how we treat ourselves.

You have every right to set boundaries with your kids’ grandparents

Because a lot has changed since they’ve raised us—and a lot will continue to change.

I had an abortion at 21. I have never wanted to tell my story—until now

This isn’t how I wanted to put this story into the world. But after Roe v. Wade was overturned, I need people to understand.

My husband took on the housework after the birth of our son—and it bettered our relationship

In the words of Sarah MacLean, “The best partnerships aren't dependent on a mere common goal but on a shared path of equality, desire, and no small amount of passion.”

How 4th of July traditions defined my childhood

To some, it may have seemed like just a day, just another backyard picnic. But to me, it was everything my childhood was about.

I’m the mom of a child with autism. Here are 3 things I want people to know

Like most mothers, I will fight to create opportunities for my son to thrive.

SCOTUS’s decision to allow prayer in public school isn’t religious liberty

As a (non-Christian) person of faith, this decision absolutely terrifies me.

My postpartum body made me feel less sexy—and I’m not alone

I was so proud of what my body had just done—yet I couldn’t seem to welcome my new form with grace. I was all-knowing of her strength—yet uncertain of her beauty.