Voices of Motherhood
Examining the Journeys of Women Nurturing the Heart of Society
Illustration commissioned for this article by Mediocre Chuch
C.S. Lewis famously stated, “The homemaker has the ultimate career. All other careers exist for one purpose only - and that is to support the ultimate career.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of motherhood, emphasizing its preeminence in shaping individuals and societies. While the inner and outer lives of the following women may look vastly different, one thing remains steadfast and that is their unwavering love for their families and vice versa. The Bible describes this love within families in Proverbs 31: 28 where it says, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” In celebration of Mother’s Day, I am thrilled to present nine micro interviews with these praiseworthy mothers. Through their stories, we embark on a journey of inspiration, wisdom, and gratitude, honoring the timeless and universal significance of motherhood.
To ensure continuity and foster meaningful comparisons, all interviewees were posed identical questions throughout the interviews, enabling a thorough examination of their responses and perspectives. Before delving into this article, I also want to congratulate two of my friends on their upcoming motherhood journeys with significant milestones awaiting them this summer. Y’all know who you are, and I can’t wait to meet your little ones.
My Magical Mom
Growing up, the number one thing that I always wanted to be was a mother. My biggest inspiration, of course, was my own mother who was truly one-of-a-kind. As a child, I was blessed with every comfort and opportunity imaginable, thanks to her unwavering dedication. This included a wardrobe that rivaled those of fashion editors and attending the most prestigious preschool, as she spared no expense to ensure I had the best. But beyond material comforts, she taught me the value of hard work and the power of unconditional love. Her kindness knew no bounds, touching the lives of everyone she encountered, from our doorman and neighbors to the wait staff at our favorite restaurants and country club members. Even years after her passing, strangers would approach me, recounting tales of her mythical aura and magnetic presence. Some even believed I possessed special powers simply because I was her daughter. (Yes, it shocked me too!) She had a knack for forging connections and making everyone feel special, whether it was any given member of our family or the priest at our local church. Her infectious laughter and quick wit were a constant source of joy. With her charisma and political connections, she seemed like a queen in her own right, effortlessly navigating social circles and leaving a lasting impression wherever she went. Her timeless beauty and spirit are what I will always remember. My mother was more than a parent; she was a babe and a legend who never seemed to age until she stopped getting the chance. I’m confident that if I’m half the mother she was, my darling little one will do quite well when the time comes.
My Dear Friend’s Mom
I’m truly blessed to be friendly with my dear friends’ moms and to have moms who are my dear friends. I wanted to share Sherry Farris’ interview first as she’s done a tremendous job raising my best friend Sarah. Aside from being Mama Sherry, this beloved woman is a Bible translator and was previously a missionary. She is the mother of 4, she has 2 sons and 2 daughters, my best friend and her sister. Her compassion, nurturing, and advocacy for her children are awe-inspiring.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
I can’t really remember a particular time when I first felt like a mom. It kind of grows on you when you’re pregnant, this realization that there’s no going back and that you have a life growing inside of you that you’re responsible for. I remember in the hospital after she was born that I was frustrated that they took her away and I couldn’t see her for what seemed like hours. I think they were just cleaning her up and making sure that her lungs were working properly. And then, during the night, I had nightmares that I couldn’t recognize my own baby. It was kind of silly, considering that they put bracelets on the mom, the dad, and the baby, so that there is absolutely no chance of accidental mix-up. You have eight or nine months of gearing up for this, and then, once the baby gets there, everything goes into fast gear, and you have to figure out how to hold the baby, how to breast-feed the baby, how to comfort the baby… I don’t really remember any set time that it occurred to me that I felt like a mom.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
Never, really. I never felt ready for parenthood, but together with my husband I just jumped in. I was older (almost 29) when we got married. After three years of marriage we decided it was time. We wanted to have kids before we were much older so we would have energy for raising them. Sometimes we just bumbled along and did our best.
What's the best thing about motherhood?
The best thing about motherhood is having a relationship with a person or several persons that will never end. You know them in some ways better than anyone else, and they know you, and trust you, and look to you for guidance from then on. One huge side benefit from parenting is that it helps you become less selfish, since you have to put your child’s needs ahead of your own wants, desires, and even needs.
What's the best piece of motherhood advice you've ever received?
When we brought our oldest child home from the hospital, my dad said the most important thing in parenting is consistency. I have not been great at following that advice, but I agree that love and consistency give a child stability and the best foundation from which to grow.
How long have you been a mom?
I’ve been a mom for almost 26 years.
When I think of Proverbs 31:30b, I think of her. The passage says, “A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
The Good & Glory of Motherhood
Kassy Lansdown was the next mother that was interviewed. You may recognize her from being the Co-Founder of Reformation Coffee Co.. Much like Sherry, she’s also the mother of young adults. Kassy's faith and devotion to her family, including her husband, a pastor, are appreciated by all blessed to know her.
When along the journey did you really feel like a mom?
I wanted a baby so badly that as soon as I found out I was pregnant I felt like a mom. The reality grew as I started feeling her move and as my stomach grew larger. Then there was that first minute I held her. There was a love and bond I just can’t explain.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
I don’t think anyone ever knows 100% that they are ready to be a parent. There’s always something that gets in the way of being “ready”. I knew I wanted to be a mom my whole life. I just put it into God’s hands that when He knew I was ready it would happen.
What’s the best thing about motherhood?
The best thing about being a parent is watching your kids grow into each stage of their lives. I loved each and every stage from infancy to adulthood. Being a mom is a precious privilege and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it even through the hard times.
What’s the best piece of advice about motherhood you’ve ever received?
The days are long but the years are short so enjoy all the moments that come along the way.
How long have you been a mom?
I’ve been a mom for almost 22 years.
If you’re waiting for an enchanted moment to feel like you’re on deck and ready to embrace motherhood, perhaps you can take Kassy’s words of wisdom to heart. God’s hands are so big, and His plan for us is incredibly beautiful. As Isaiah 64:8 says, “...We are the clay and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand” (English Standard Version). God will be there to support us along the way. He will help mold us into the best parents that we can be if we trust in Him. Not only has He knit us together in our mother’s womb, He has also knit our child together in our womb. We can trust that He understands each facet of us because we are His handiwork.
Photo credit: Alex Pasarelu
The Sweetness of Motherhood
Recently, I’ve gotten to know the delightful Courtney O’Dell. I adore how she talks about both the sweetness and savoriness of motherhood with a refreshing reverence for the task God has entrusted her with. You may recognize her as one of your favorite travel foodie bloggers.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
A day or two after we brought my oldest home from the hospital, my mom had a small accident with him and a stroller wheel that didn't lock and our dog who kind of ran into the stroller (the stroller rolled out the front door and the baby rolled a bit in the bassinet as it went flying) and my mom was freaking out like she broke the baby, and I just calmly scooped him up and saw nobody was hurt, he was fine, and all was ok and I knew it would all be that way - a little scary but would end up okay.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
My kids are 12 and 13, and I’m still waiting to feel like I’m “ready” - I don’t think being a parent is ever something you can plan for and really have everything together for. I definitely never feel set, and I’ve been at this parenting gig for almost a decade and a half!
What's the best thing about motherhood?
Getting to see my kids’ unique personalities, interests, and dreams - it is the most fun thing to get to see the world through my kids eyes.
What's the best piece of motherhood advice you've ever received?
Honestly, the best advice I ever got was to not listen to too much advice - and trust my gut. Nobody knows you, or your children, better than you. Even when you’re clueless.
How long have you been a mom?
14 years in August
As we can understand from Courtney’s experience, God has gifted us with intuition that we can hone and use for the betterment of our families. This is true even if we’ve yet to feel ready. Take heart, dear ones.
Cradled By Jesus
Whether you saw her in the background of Daily Wire’s Lady Ballers, know her from being a dear part of our Twitter community, or remember her from being a guest on Finding the Faith (you should watch it if you have yet to) Abbey Kaiser is renowned. She’s both a cherished wife, and mother to a beautiful daughter. Abbey’s journey to motherhood was not straightforward, but it was faith-strengthening. She is an inspiration!
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
When I started making sacrifices for my child. I sacrificed my body, my time, my health (stupid morning sickness), my mental state, and almost my life. And I would do it 100 times over.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
No one is ever ready, whether they think they are or not. I’m still not ready…
What's the best thing about motherhood?
Being a mother is what I was created to do. It gives me purpose and drive. It’s the reason I get up every morning. I can’t imagine not being a mother.
What's the best piece of motherhood advice you've ever received?
Have kids as soon as possible, even before you think you’re ready. People have the tendency to make excuses of why they’re not ready which only leads to the next excuse. They miss out on so much joy by delaying it.
How long have you been a mom?
My son, Grant, was born in the arms of Jesus on February 9th, 2011. I have been a mom since his conception.
Abbey’s journey through motherhood has been deeply intertwined with her faith. From the sacrifices she's made to the unyielding sense of purpose that being the mother to her daughter brings her, Abbey's experience serves as a testament to the transformative power of motherhood. Through joys and sorrows, Abbey's unwavering dedication to her role as a mother shines through, reminding us all of the profound impact that motherhood can have on one's life.
Femininity & Motherhood
Annelise's journey reflects a profound appreciation for the beauty and significance of motherhood within the context of femininity. You may have previously known her as Feminine Not Feminist but these days Anneliese is introducing herself in her handle. She is the mother to a precious son, and has another little blessing in her belly.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
Towards the end of my first pregnancy some things just began to settle for me. Something maternal in me awoke.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
I never didn’t feel ready once we were married, it was waiting for my husband to feel ready that was really hard.
What's the best thing about motherhood?
The best part is my son. Spending every day with him is my favorite.
What's the best piece of motherhood advice you've ever received?
Probably advice about surrendering control and recognizing that my child belongs to God. I need to hear that.
How long have you been a mom?
I found out I was pregnant with my first about 3 years ago!
As we conclude our conversation with Annelise, her insights offer a profound reflection on the intertwining of feminine nature and motherhood. Join us as we continue to explore the rich tapestry of experiences that shape the journey of motherhood for women everywhere.
For I Have Knit You Together In Your Mother’s Womb
Interviewing Samantha–otherwise known as Pro-Life Sam–was one of my very first episodes of Finding the Faith, and she was also on a panel that I did recently on IVF. I think that it’s safe to say that we’ve had some pretty cool experiences together, and with our next panel coming up on May 21, 2024, we’re not stopping any time soon. You likely know her from the vital work that she does on behalf of Live Action as their Social Media Consultant. Samantha is an impressive woman, wife, and mother of two. (On our first episode together she was expecting her youngest!) Pay attention to how she answers these questions as they offer a poignant reflection on the transformative journey of motherhood, infused with her unwavering faith and heartfelt wisdom.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
The moment I found out I was one.
From the moment I became aware of my child’s existence, an indescribable bond took root in my heart. Throughout my pregnancy, I experienced a strong instinct to protect my baby. This wonderful gift from God truly changed my perspective, filling me with gratitude as I stepped into my new role as a mother.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
I think about this often because it almost became my biggest regret. I thought I wasn’t ready for children until I had everything: a nice house, a good car, savings, a specific position at my job. My husband and I waited for years. My first child was actually born on our seventh year anniversary! The moment I was pregnant, I realized that I really would have been “ready” years ago and I felt a sadness knowing that I had lived all of these years without my children. But God has a way of redeeming our brokenness. The timing brought these particular children into my life so I wouldn’t change a thing. But I do share a piece of advice with younger couples: If you’re in a stable, loving marriage and can meet a child’s basic needs, don’t delay for material comforts. The joy of children eclipses everything else, and every year you wait is a year that you lose with them.
What's the best thing about motherhood?
Having the opportunity to shape my child’s faith and character in Christ. I hope to give them purpose, not just for this life but for eternity. I hope to reflect Jesus' love, kindness, and forgiveness, showing my kids the incredible things God can do. It's a blessing to see their moments of innocence, joy, and growing understanding of God—truly uplifting and strengthening my own faith.
What's the best piece of motherhood advice you've ever received?
To stay home with my young children.
Choosing to stay at home has been the best decision my husband and I ever made. It supports our children's development, benefits my well-being as a mother, and greatly assists my husband. While he works, he finds comfort knowing that our children are safe and loved, our home is well-managed, and I am fulfilled. This arrangement has truly enriched our family life.
I highly recommend this to any parents who can manage it. If it's within your means, do whatever it takes to make it happen. It will be well worth the effort.
How long have you been a mom?
Since 2020
Sam is an encouraging presence in my life. While we don’t get to spend as much time together as we’d like, I can only imagine what a gift from God having her as a mother is. Full disclosure, I feel as if that’s true of each of my friends who are moms.
This picture of the Solheim family was captured by CM
The Importance of Motherhood
Evie Solheim is an incredible journalist. She’s been gracious enough to feature my work several times in the Girl’s Guide, further demonstrating what a girls’ girl she is. While Evie navigates many roles within her life with class, it’s evident that ‘mom’ is a favorite title of hers.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
That’s a good question! I began to feel connected to my baby in utero when she really started kicking around 20 weeks – which, coincidentally, was at the same time as the Dobbs Supreme Court decision. There was something really striking about reading all the news about the pro-life victory and realizing that babies her size or bigger were at risk. Maybe that was the moment a switch flipped for me to become a “mom.”
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
I’ve always loved babies and did a lot of nannying, but it felt very scary to make the leap to having MY OWN baby completely dependent on me for everything. But the timing felt right to jump right into having a baby after we got married. (Margot was born about two months after our first wedding anniversary). Sure, we enjoyed our leisurely weekends before kids, but we both always knew that would be a relatively short season because we were ready for the next step. We just knew there was something else we were supposed to be doing, and that something was Margot!
What's the best thing about motherhood?
I hear lots of horror stories from moms about bringing their kids to public places and having encounters with rude strangers, but that is not something we have ever experienced! I love that babies and toddlers bring people joy. We stop and chat with older folks at the grocery store who want to smile and wave at Margot. I have moms come up to me and tell me they remember when their little ones were that age. I have had so many positive interactions with people who just love getting a “Hiii!!!” from a toddler that it’s been really special.
What's the best piece of motherhood advice you've ever received?
This isn’t one piece of advice I got from one person at one time, but the best general advice about motherhood is just a reminder of how important it is. It’s not a waiting period, or just cleaning up after a little one, or something that anyone could do. There’s so much evidence that, even though we don’t remember them, the most developmentally impactful years of our lives are the early years. I’m capable of setting my daughter up for a happy, healthy life just by loving her and teaching her, and that’s amazing.
How long have you been a mom?
I became a mom in November 2022 with the birth of my daughter Margot!
The essence of motherhood for Evie lies in the profound impact she can have on her precious child’s life, shaping a future filled with love and learning. Evie and Nick also have another sweet bundle of joy on the way.
Hannah’s Children
I recently finished reading an incredible book called Hannah’s Children by Catherine Ruth Pakaluk. As the book overview reveals, it truly is a pathbreaking foray into questions of purpose, religion, transcendence, healing, and growth-questions that ought to inform economic inquiry in the future. Regardless of your “motherhood status,” I thoroughly recommend this book. Catherine is an author, economics professor at The Catholic University of America, wife, mother, and grandmother. Her answers were illuminating, and I’m honored to be able to share them with you.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
I became a mom to my husband’s children from his first marriage right away, and so while I was expecting my first baby, I was also learning how to be a mom to those sweet kids. It is a funny thing to say, but I didn’t know what I was supposed to do to be a good mom. Then I realized that reading bedtime stories was something that moms do, so I started reading stories before they went to bed, and I have to say, in a short period of time, that made me feel like a mom.
The great thing about reading stories before bed is that when the story is over, everyone feels very comfortable, and close, and warm. And so, stories led to talking, and talking led to affection, and affection led to love.
And all that happened before my first baby was born.
When did you know you were ready to have a baby?
Actually, I don’t think I ever did feel ready before he came. I loved my husband, and I trusted that our marriage was strong and that God would provide if we were blessed with children. I do remember feeling not ready many times! When my baby was born, I fell in love with him, and I knew that nothing could come between me and my determination to be the best mom I could be. And so I think that moment of falling in love with my baby—that’s when I knew I was ready.
What’s the best thing about motherhood?
Oh, it’s hard to pick. There are so many things, and when they were little, I probably would have focused on how much I adored caring for their little persons, their chubby little bodies, dressing them and bathing them, and feeding them and holding them. But now as my children have grown and some have even left the home, I would have to say that what I love most is knowing these other adults so intimately and enjoying them as they develop into unique others. They have such diverse and interesting personalities, tastes, and talents. And it’s just endlessly fascinating to see them unfold and discover who they are, and be cheering for them and enjoying them, and all the while reveling in the mystery that their whole being first unfolded under the bosom of my own heart a long time ago.
What’s the best piece of motherhood advice you’ve ever received?
“This too shall pass,” was said to me by a friend—an older mom who I met just after I got married. She was so right. All the things do pass, and if you remind yourself when you’re in it, there’s a balm in that. The early weeks of sleepless nights pass; the toddler years pass; difficult transitions pass; messy rooms pass; all the rest passes. What’s left is mercy and gratitude—mercy where God covered for my weaknesses and carried me through times of need, gratitude for the gift of my children and the privilege to care for them. I look at my grown children now and I could just weep for the gift they are to me, gifts out of all proportion to my merits. That was good advice—what’s hard passes away, while the beauty and gift of it all grows stronger every year.
How long have you been a mom?
I’ll be married twenty-five years this summer! The day we got married I became a mom—an adoptive mom to my husband’s children from his first marriage. (His first wife passed away in 1998 due to metastatic breast cancer.) Soon after we conceived our first child together, and he was born on Mother’s Day in the year 2000. It was an incredible first year of marriage and motherhood, all very closely bound together. So, we have lots to celebrate this anniversary year—twenty-five years of marriage and twenty-five years of motherhood.
From the tender embrace of reading bedtime stories to the profound moment of falling in love with her firstborn, Catherine's insights are a testament to the transformative power of love and devotion. We see how much there is to love about motherhood through every stage, whether it’s cherishing the physical care of their infancy or delighting in their unique personalities and accomplishments as adults, she demonstrates that the beauty of motherhood transcends each stage of a child's life. There is such sage wisdom offered in both this exclusive interview or in her book including the poignant reminder that the challenges are temporary, while the love and gratitude endure.
Modeling Motherhood
Whether conquering professional goals such as founding Evie Magazine, creating (and consistently curating) the 28 Wellness app, and bringing Toxic Breakup–the 3-in-1 birth control detox capsule–to market, or welcoming personal milestones like becoming a wife and mother of two, Brittany Martinez exudes radiance. This iconic girls’ girl graciously made time for this interview to share rare insights into her maternal voyage.
When along the journey did you first really feel like a mom?
I think I first felt like a mom the day my oldest was born. You’re entrusted now with another life. Someone you adore and would give your life for even though you barely know her yet.
When did you know you were ready to be a parent?
I always wanted to be a mom and have a family, but I also absolutely love my husband. We didn’t live together before marriage so I was just so excited to spend time with him. We also just started our first business, Evie. I always wanted little versions of him, but it was around 3 years after our marriage when I got hit hard with baby fever. 2 months later, we tried to get pregnant, and instantly [Elena Rose] was conceived.
What’s the best thing about motherhood?
The best part about motherhood is every sweet moment with my kids. I love hearing my toddler run in our room in the morning to play with her little sister. I take them to coffee shops and all over the place. What’s not to like?
What’s the best piece of motherhood advice you’ve ever received?
You can have it all but not at once. I think it’s a good realization. I try to soak in every moment with them and treasure it because I know it won’t be forever.
How long have you been a mom?
I’ve been a mom since 2021! I have a toddler and a 4-month-old.
Brittany's journey illustrates the balance between pursuing professional goals while embracing personal landmarks like marriage and motherhood. Our ambitions aren’t halted when we become mothers. Rather, motherhood offers a renewed sense of purpose. For Brit, balance in motherhood means prioritizing and savoring precious moments with her children while pursuing other aspirations, making her exemplary in this aspect of maternal wisdom.
The Eternal Magic of Motherhood
Despite the differences in these incredible women’s journeys, another invisible string tying them all together is the profound vocation of motherhood. Transitioning from the anticipation of pregnancy to the daily joys of raising children, each story adds depth to our understanding of this universal journey. Whether welcoming their newborns into the world, or admiring the accomplishments of their adult children, these interviews allow us to witness the transformative power of love, sacrifice, and faith of motherhood. They serve as reminders of the profound impact that mothers have. As we reflect on the wisdom shared by these mothers, we are inspired to cherish every moment, embrace the journey, and celebrate the enduring beauty of motherhood. Happy Mother’s Day!
This article is a must read
This is such a beautiful thing to read.