As I look through the pages of our Family Journal, I feel some grief over the lost time and the gaps between entries, but I have to put the lost months and time behind me and be okay with starting again, right where we are at.

Growing up, I never thought that I had the confidence to be a teacher. Back in college, my biggest concern was getting good grades. I took what I thought was the easy way out and decided to work in an office. But then something happened. Motherhood changed me.

My ride home was an uphill climb. On tough days, I decided I couldn’t do it. On good days, I knew I could do anything. Either way, I always got home, but my success was directly related to my expectations. Eventually, I learned my success was ultimately up to me.

What do teenagers really need in order to grow up to be responsible and happy adults? This book offers excellent food for thought.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to be passionate about my work. Waking up each day excited about work was my goal! But the moment my son was born, I knew I didn’t want to go back to my job.

It’s true. I’ve been watching you. Not in the creepy, lock-your-doors kind of way. But in the unspoken, wonder-and-admire kind of way.

Attentive listening is arguably the supreme gift we can give children of any age, but especially our teenagers. And the big bonus is that it doesn’t cost a cent.

I never thought hugs would decrease as my kids get older, but it’s alarming to me how it just naturally happened. Making a conscious effort to include more snuggles and hugs in each day means I have to be aware of what I’m doing—or not doing.

After I had three children, I needed to do some soul-searching. Out of necessity, I had grown a hobby into a business. I was still at home all week, but I would fit “work” into times when my husband was home. It was a lucrative business, and it seemed like my dream job until…

With Mother’s Day being this month, I can’t help but reflect on the many things my mother has done for me. From teaching me how to write a check and boil water, to showing me how to change a diaper and swaddle a baby.