Mother's Day: Kristin's Story

“There is power and healing in sharing our stories. I think it helps other women to escape their feelings of shame and inadequacy to hear that they are not alone.”

— Kristin Proto

As Mother's Day approaches, I am reminded that for many of us mamas it can be a day filled with fear, pain, regret and sorrow. I want to honor all of you today. You've fought daily underground battles that we had no idea you were fighting. You've faced bigger fears than we can imagine. You are the women who I respect and honor most- the ones who have been through hell and back, yet keep fighting for love.

This is the portrait of a mama who is fiercely battling her motherhood fears. This is a woman, who despite being neglected and abused by her own mother, fights to overcome her past and chooses to raise her children in love. She struggles to choose acceptance over self doubt- love over fear. Yet, she knows that love wins. And because of her bravery to share about her past, her children will know it too.

“You belong among the wildflowers. You belong somewhere you feel free.”

— Tom Petty

I have a soft spot for my 2 year old niece, Lydia. She reminds me of myself when I was a child. I think it's her pouty lip (we call it the "Katie" lip- named after me) and that she makes you work to win her over-to earn her trust. Then, all of a sudden she sheds her cautious nature and sets her soul free to love and to accept love. Every time I see her we go through this cycle- we take our time. Today she was a little quicker to let me in. She felt free among the flowers. As we danced in the blue and green fields, she welcomed me into her world.

This was my first time meeting little Anthony. During one of our chats and he told me that he's proud to be named after his daddy, his grandfather and his great grandfather even though everyone says that he doesn't look like an 'Anthony'. I told him that his name suited him perfectly.