One of my favorite blog reads is Privet and Holly, written by the beauty-full-hearted Suzanne. This is a mom who is grateful for each day that her children are in her care and I am constantly inspired when I visit her blog.
How many children do you have and how old are they?
Elizabeth is 17, a junior in high school
William is 13, a 7th grader in middle school
What have you found hardest about being a mom?
When they were younger, it was the pure physical
exhaustion of being on call 24/7.
As they got older, it was seeing them go though
growing pains, whether it was a heart broken from
first love, rejection from a friend, not making a team,
etc. When I was expecting I once read that having
a child was like seeing your own heart walking around
on legs and that is absolutely the truth!
What do you love best about being a mom?
I never get tired of the I love you’s, the spontaneous
hugs and impromptu laughter.
Tell us about a mom you admire.
I am a huge fan of that mother of all mothers, Mother
Teresa. I often think of this quote of hers as I pack lunches,
run laundry, drive to baseball practice, etc:
Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small
things with great love.
What is your greatest wish for your children?
I want them to pursue a vocation that they love. I
have a friend whose husband {an eye surgeon} is so
passionate about his profession, he can’t wait to get
up in the morning and go into work! That is what I
want for them, in both their jobs and in their life; that
they can’t wait to put their feet on the floor each day
and GO! It’s how I feel about my job as their mom.
How has motherhood changed you?
I was a Type-A person most of my life, even after I
had my first baby. I still tried to do it all; never napped
had my first baby. I still tried to do it all; never napped
when the baby napped! But after William was born
I began to give myself permission to slow down a bit
more and savor the moment.
I also see others differently; more patient and kindly.
We are all someone’s baby.
What three words describe the kind of mother you want to be?
Warm. Loving. Present.
What is one of your favorite childhood memories of your mom?
That she was always available to listen to my cares
and concerns and to sympathize and give me advice.
and concerns and to sympathize and give me advice.
What is the most important parenting lesson you learned from your mom?
Not to hover over your children. Letting them play
alone while you attend to household matters
alone while you attend to household matters
helps them learn to entertain themselves and play
independently.
How would you spend your ideal Mother’s Day?
I would have breakfast with my hubby and kids, lunch with the same
crew plus my in-laws and dinner with all of the above plus my parents!
crew plus my in-laws and dinner with all of the above plus my parents!
I might gain five pounds, but it would be worth it. I love family meals.
Do you have any gift recommendations for a father and children for Mother’s Day?
I think a locket with a picture of the kids inside
is a precious gift and they come in
is a precious gift and they come in
all price points. Love coupons are also very,
very sweet…..if you can bear to cash them in : )
Good for one foot massage ~
Good for doing the dishes ~
Good for one hug ~
What morsel of advice would you share with a mom-to-be?
Don’t bother with the parenting books.
Listen to your heart/gut instincts and let them guide you.
Listen to your heart/gut instincts and let them guide you.
And don’t forget to enjoy the ride.
Thank you, Suzanne, for sharing your perspective on motherhood. Your family is beautiful and they are blessed to have you! Happy Mother’s Day to you and to your mom!
Visit Privet and Holly for a thoughtful and beautiful take on this precious life.
Happy weekend, friends!
Dana Frieling says
Thanks for sharing the Mom love this week, Lisa. Hope your kiddos spoil you rotten on Sunday!
Carmel @ Our Fifth House says
Loved this series and I love her don't bother with the parenting books comment!
Have a Happy Mother's Day!
Privet and Holly says
Lisa, what an honor
to be featured on your
beautiful blog and to
call you FRIEND : ).
I love this series and
I hope that you will
feature your own answers
as well. Happy Mother's
Day to you and yours!
xo Suzanne
SuzyMcQ says
Oh, Suzanne, thank you, as always for writing what is in our own hearts in such an eloquent way.
I love the last image of you and yours on the sofa. It's wonderful!
Low Tide High Style says
Oh Suzanne, such sage advice and your children are so very lucky to be able to call you Mom! I hope you have a very Happy Mother's Day, and I love that last photo!!!
Kat
Val says
Wonderful post! All of these guest posts are amazing.
Farmgirl Paints says
love miss suzanne. she's the real deal. i've seen her mothering in person and she's the best. heed her advice;)
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
what a gorgeous family! and 'present"- love that!
I am Sylvia says
Lisa, thank you for this inspiring read. Susanne is amazing, isn't she ?!
Have a wonderful, sunny Mother's Day!
Kathleen says
I've been blessed to know Suzanne since before she became a mother. I've watched her with such awe and admiration be a mother to two awesome kids. I've learned so much from her wise counsel (and I remember all those beautiful pictures from when her kids were little~~we talk about missing those days when they were small.) Treasure every day you have with your family!
GLENDA CHILDERS says
Thanks, Lisa, for this great interview. And, Suzanne, your love of being a mom shines through. I really enjoyed seeing your photos. The last one is stunning.