Although I eventually gave birth to four girls and four boys, my husband and I invested 10 years in this parenting gig before welcoming a daughter into our home. Our first three children were boys, which was how my husband’s family rolled: his mother and grandmother each gave birth to three sons, no girls.

Because I was one of two girls and so was my mother, they were what I expected. I can French braid—a skill which shouldn’t go to waste—so surely God would give me daughters, right?

Most women find Proverbs 31 an intimidating chapter in the Bible. This woman had everything—virtue, business sense, serious gardening and homemaking skills, and a strong marriage—a description that can make even the most confident woman feel lacking.

But what draws me in is the beginning of verse 28:

“Her children arise up, and call her blessed . . .”

As mothers we pour ourselves into our children, body and soul. It’s only natural to hope they notice and appreciate it.

My mother passed away 11 years ago, much too young. I’ve since learned that you’re never too old to need a mother’s love and advice.

I’m honored to pay tribute to my her memory as part of this year’s Listen to Your Mother event in Atlanta, where 13 local writers and storytellers will read stories about the blessings, the struggles, and the sleep-deprivation of motherhood in celebration of Mother’s Day in a live performance.

I would love for you to join me there.

What: Listen to Your Mother, Atlanta
Where: Earl Smith Strand Theatre, 117 North Park Square, Marietta, GA 30060
When: Saturday, April 25th, 7 p.m.
Tickets:

The BlogHer Experts Among Us Team will visit five cities on the 39-city Listen to Your Mother schedule and Atlanta is one of them!