Right now, from where I am sitting, I can hear my mom reading to Lainey on the couch. It is quiet except for the sound of her voice that sings the words like a kindergarten teacher–softly but with good enthusiasm. I don’t know what the story is, but I’ve picked up something about three big white birds and a handsome swan.
Savory whiffs of homemade chicken pot pie are escaping from the oven, and cooling on the bay window ledge right now are two perfect pies–one apple, one mixed berry.
My mama’s here.
This means a number of things–that the Scrabble board will come out from its dusty hiding place in the closet, that we’ll set out on bikes for evening rides, that the meals of my childhood will resurface this week, that the hole that’s been growing on Lainey’s puppy blanket will finally get patched and sewed, that we’ll watch at least two wholesome Hallmark movies and talk about them when they’re over, that we’ll search eBay for European shoes and quilts and dolls back from when they made them good. And we’ll make pies. Because that’s what my mom does.
There is the other part though–the bigger picture part where I think about legacy and generations and how much my perpective changes as I get older. How much I appreciate my mom more and what she did for us when we were little, what she does for us now. And having her here and listening to her sing to my kids or watching her transform my meager pantry staples into the World’s Best Casserole, I can’t help but fast forward and wonder, what will it look like when my girls are grown?
I hope I do the best character voices in stories for my grandkids. I hope they save their tattered security blankets for me to patch up on my visits. And I hope I make some mean pies.
I struggle with a good even pie crust, so I watched my mom today, studying her method. She said it’s easy. “You just have to show the crust who’s boss.”
Bonus of mama visits? I get to be a tour guide–taking her to our favorite places and revisiting them with new enthusiasm. She and George like nature and flowers and outdoor adventures. They know the names of birds, and they bring their own binoculars.
Lainey was excited to introduce her friends to her grandma and grandpa yesterday, to show off for them in ballet, to tell Aleena “you can call her Grandma Krissy too.”
And I, as Kelly Corrigan would say, like being in that middle place, hugged between needing a mom and being a mom, still learning and taking and yet teaching and giving at the same time.
As I watch my girls whisper to their own baby dolls, wrapping them up in whatever they can find for blankets, kissing their heads, gently toting them along on our trips and attending to them in the car, I can only smile and be assured that the cycle will continue.
They are just beginning–little blocks of love and affection, praise and guidance slowly building their foundation. And while sometimes I wonder what the middle place holds for Nella, I at least find comfort in the fact that her foundation is strong. We are in control of that, and that is empowering. We’ll cushion her up good–love on every side, and yet we’ll push her forward too. And you can be damned sure, Sister’s going to know how to make pies.
P.S. Sister has mad typing skills.
We finished our afternoon at the pool today, Lainey bravely jumping with big splashes to impress both her mama and her grandma and Nella watching quietly from her float.
This middle place? Best view in the house. I look back for inspiration, I look forward with motivation.
That’s what mamas do.
*****
Being that it’s mid-March and the promise of warmer and sunnier is on everyone’s mind, we’ve been dipping in the pool a little more frequently and making plans for Isle of Capri.
This, of course, means swimsuit time. The perfect swimsuit, to be exact. I’ve proclaimed my love in the past for the fabulous vintage swimwear Popina offers, and this year I think I’ve found my favorite suit yet (close tie with the yellow). Popina offers a range of tankinis, highwaist swimwear and vintage styles. They are comfy and butt-hugging in just the way you want your butt hugged.
Jantzen Vamp Suit
Popina is offering a 15% discount right now, using code kelle. And one lucky commenter on this post will win a free swimsuit, courtesy of Popina Swimwear (winner announced Friday). Find a big hat, a pair of Jackie O’s, tell Esther Williams to move over and get ready for some sunshine.
In your comment, tell me, what’s one of your favorite things you learned from your mama? And if not from your own mom, then maybe from someone else’s mom.
I learned to be content. To love simple things. To use dish cloths, not sponges. And to never stop hugging and kissing my kids. Even when they’re all grown up.
*****
MomBE says
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MomBE says
I was so excited to be first! Not sure why? The first grader in me that wanted to be the line leader???
Amanda Buck says
LOVE! I miss living close to my mom.
Jenna | The Paleo Project says
The sweetest mamas do know best!
I love those shots of you in the red lipstick with the little side bun! Gorgeous.
MomBE says
I learned from my mom….to dig deep and be strong, even when you feel like it is IMPOSSIBLE!
Angela says
I learned to laugh at myself, that it’s okay if you don’t know the right words to the song . . . sing loud regardless and then laugh, and that it’s more than alright to take time for yourself–to pursue your passion.
jolie says
I’ve learned it’s important to be there! My Mom was always there! I love that she was a stay at home Mom. That was what I wanted to be when I grew up a wife and a Mom and I’m living my dream! Hugs!
LOVE…LOVE…LOVE your lipstick!!! What shade is it???
Table4One says
What a great post….I’m about to be 26 and are realizing that my mom really does know it all and that I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her! Those delicious apple and mixed berry pies, pretty sure I can smell them through your blog 🙂
Elizabeth says
This post makes my heart happy. Thank you!
Cary says
I guess I just learned “unconditional love” from my Mother (but it was on her terms)! hahaha! We are extremely close now but that wasn’t always the case. She is an angel living among us!
Alzbeta says
My mama taught me that we are all beautiful, no matter what, and that a good long walk, despite the weather, is worth it.
jenniwaka says
I learned that if I want to have some cute things around the house to get crafty. Mom used to make themed Christmas trees every year from ribbons, felt, clothespins, etc.
Julie says
My mom passed away 3 weeks ago today, I loved watching her love my children. She adored the with a passion and her passing has left a huge hole in all our hearts which I will now try my hardest to fill. So they never forget her.
Emilia says
I learned your ever too tired to make a home cooked meal – even if it’s a scrambled egg and leftover rice.
aaflood says
My mama taught me that no one else on
this earth will love you like your mama does. And also? What other people think of us is none of our business. She is one smart lady!
the McCumbers says
my mom taught me to always look for the good – every situation has a positive aspect. when i spilled milk, she said she was glad it was just milk, as grape juice would have been worse! even when i was young and my parents got divorced and remarried, she taught me to enjoy two christmases, more people that love me and even two visits from the tooth fairy for the same tooth 🙂
Victoria says
Love that suit!
Mrs.T says
I learned how to cook from my Mama.
New lipstick? Looks more coral than red, but beautiful!
nibsey says
my mom taught me to be the best mom to my little girl. She also taught me to make pickles.
Jennifer says
My husband would probably say my mother taught me how to nag ;)- Honestly though, she gave me a great love of books. Because of her, I make sure I read to my child as much as possible!
Whitney says
My mom taught me to always clean the kitchen before going to bed (among many, many other things, of course!)
MamaMeerkat says
I learned from my mom to never stop trying and to always do my best!
Mrs.Joyner says
Firstly..I love your suit, it looks fantastic!!
And what have I learned from my mom? What haven’t I learned from her? I think the most important lesson is patience & that things happen in God’s good timing. She & my dad struggled for 10 years w/infertility before they adopted me. My husband and I struggled w infertility/recurrent pregnancy loss for 2 years before we welcomed our daughter last January. And now we are having secondary infertility..And my mom has been there, reminding me to have patience, and to let go & let God. She absolutely amazing. I couldn’t be any luckier!!!
Evelyn Louise says
I’ve learned to balance boundaries with allowances. Monday, Ella (3) got to stay up until 10 p.m. watching The Voice. I’d put her to bed at 7:30, but she hadn’t seen her daddy all day and wanted to spend time with him. Girl loves music, so she ended up watching The Voice and loving it…
Oh, lately Ella has discovered that I am a mom (therefore a grown-up) BUT I also have a mom (therefore a kid). We play this “Is SHE a grown-up and a kid, too?” game. Quite cool when she discovers these things…
Voltron says
My mom taught me to work hard for everything in life. And because of that, I think that’s why my son with special needs is making the progress he is today. 🙂
Kari Jeanne says
I just love coming to read your blog 🙂 My husband and I talk a lot about starting our own family soon – I am so looking forward to the ‘middle place.’ Oh and my mom? Also a mean pie maker – I must learn her tricks!!
sillymomma says
I’ve learned that no matter how silly I feel doing so, I can always call up my Mama and get a dose of encouragement, sympathy, advice, truth and love. Even if I don’t say what I need. She knows. Also, she has taught be to be confident in the Mama that I am to my girls. Thank you for making this preggo girl cry tears of gratitude for my own Mama who lives 3000 miles away. She will be here when I welcome my newest baby- and I couldn’t be more grateful xox
Erin says
this post is lovely, brought tears to my eyes, as i spent the whole day shopping with my mama today. i’ve learned ever so much from her, but something that stood out to me today in our conversation was – don’t let anybody take away your dreams. dream big.
Ginny says
I learned that bedtime lullabies are very important even when you feel you can’t possible keep your eyes open any longer.
Lauren says
My grandmother taught me everything about how to be a mother. I miss her every day.
Sandy says
I, too, learned to use dish cloths, not sponges (now if only I could convince my husband of this). I’ve learned how to sing to my kids, even if off-key, how to love reading and share its joys, how to be patient (ok, still working on that), how to bake cookies and goodies, and how to do all that God has called me to do while making sure my kids don’t get shortchanged in the process. i love my mom! so glad you are enjoying yours.
Jennifer says
My mom taught me an important lesson that had nothing to do with baking or cooking (man I wish she had!), but how to treat people and also how to use humor to defuse a bad situation. I’ll *never* forget the time my Mom told a man, “Who licked the red off your lollypop?” when he was not being nice to my kid brother.
Kelle, I have to tell you I love your sense of fashion. It makes me smile every time I see your pictures.
Sherry says
Important things my mama taught me? Faith, family, friends and of course…love.
Katie says
I’d love to win! Best thing I learned from my Mom? Unconditional love….most definitely.
Nicole says
I learned to go all out and have fun. To be more excited than my kids for a snow day, to make birthday parties a big to-do and to take time and play instead of folding laundry.
Katie says
My mother is always supportive of me and my decisions. Even if there are times she may disagree with what I have chosen, as soon as the decision is made she does whatever she can to support that decision. And I love that about her!
Mary says
Kelle, all my words about connecting with your post and the relationship I have with my mother temporarily left me when I saw that fabulous sea foam/easter egg/springy nail polish. What color are you wearing? Lots of love for Enjoying the Small Things like Grandma’s that read aloud and bake pies, and also lovely shades of nail polish.
Jess says
One of my favorite things I learned from my Mom… it’s okay to take some Tylenol when the kids are being obnoxious and not leaving anytime soon!
scgrits says
I learned to marry a man who can cook!
2raineys says
Oh this post brought tears to my eyes!
My own Mother is not in my life for a number of really terrible reasons and I long for those moments when she WAS here.
When I was a child she would sometimes stay up late and sew my sister and I a new dress – wrap it in brown paper and leave it at the table for when we woke up. Never an occasion except “just because” she taught me how to sew as well and now I enjoy making little things for my child to wake up and discover!
Jenny says
I learned from my mama that it’s the little things we do every day that show how much we care, be it making our favorite meals, doing our laundry or setting up something special like lunch on a picnic blanket outside.
Teresa says
My mama thought me strength. I wish she had thought me her amazing cooking….I miss it so.
Molly says
Gorgeous suit!! Had to giggle at the butt-hugging…
CandidCollections says
I love those moments with my mom and my kids…we NEED those special times! I also LOVE that bathing suit and like that Popina offers suits for all shapes and sizes 🙂
Wally says
The one favorite thing I learned from my mom is that even if I am tired and exhausted, the show must go on. My mom would stay up late to food prep or finish last minute things in the kitchen if a party was happening at our house the next day. She even made all the floral arrangements and bouquets, for our wedding, staying up late to make sure everything was done and ready for the next day. I swore I’d never do that, and now as a mom I find myself staying up to make things for my kids, whether it be for their class snack or to make a happy birthday sign or to last minute finish up a costume that got a little too complicated. I always wonder why I do it and then I realize, just like my mom, I take joy in doing things, even if it means till the wee hours of the night.
Jody says
Adorable suit! I learned to bake from my mom. She is the master so it makes me so happy when she praises me for something delicious I’ve made (usually a low-fat version of her original)!
Kel says
My Mum taught me that everything in life is a lesson and, if we learn from it, nothing that happens is a ‘bad thing’. Her whole life is a lesson to me on how to be the bigger person, how to love unconditionally and that if you have love in your life, you have everything you need.
She is my life Guru 🙂
Hazel says
So many beautiful moments with your Mama. Legacy is important, and something I already think about. The Mama I want to be is important to me. To be honest although my own mother does love us (all five of us kids) she has had a funny way of showing it. She cares desperately about what others think of her by what we do. Her response to that need is to criticise us. Always. What we wear. Who we date. Who we marry. Our weight. Our beliefs, or perceived lack of. What we eat and how much we drink. I’ve tried to explain how much pain she has caused us all (all my brothers and sisters have cried/complained about this) and she has replied it’s her right as my mother. Sadly, it is hard to take when unbalanced by genuine praise. So I want to try harder to help her be my friend.
Recently I didn’t want to tell her what I was going through, as usually she will offer her opinions and as she also has a tendency to share my personal life with her entire church, and at that stage I just wanted to deal with it myself. But she rang to find out why I wasn’t at work and I caved. You know what she surprised me, she said “Oh Marian I don’t know what to say cause I haven’t experienced it but I do love you”. That was the right thing to say.
I guess I’ve got to try too, cause I assume what she will do/say, and haven’t given her a chance as I hold onto past hurts.
So sorry, what has she taught me.
Quality not quantity.
Love your family.
Be generous.
Thanks Kelle for making me think. You are a gem.
And thanks for dropping by the blog too! xoxo
Jenna E says
My mom taught me compassion/empathy/love. She wakes up and goes to sleep with a smile. I am looking forward to having my first baby this summer and moving closer to her to give me strength and guidance.
ps Love that swimsuit
Brittany Williams says
Wow! Love the jantzen suits! Super cute!
My mom taught me how to make the best lasagna in the world and how to stay strong when the world around you crumbles.
blair a says
I love this post! Im so ready for bathing suit weather. Luckily were a few hours above you in Fl!
Krissy says
We must be on the same wave length today…was just thinking and appreciating all the things big and small my mom has always done for me. She made it ok to play hooky sometimes; packed my lunch everyday all the way through high school; rescued me when my babies were 11 weeks old so I could FINALLY get more than 2 hours of sleep at a time. Only until I became a mom did I appreciate my own more.
On a different note…we just returned from Naples and loved (among many places) the botanical gardens! So much that we were inspired to go back to the ones here at home in Richmond:)
Love your work…thanks for always showing up.
starwater says
One of the things I learned from my amazing mother is to never forget where I come from. I grew up on a farm in Missouri and moved to the big city after college…..well wouldnt ya know it, I’m engaged to a good ole boy now and living in his tiny town in Illinois. Thanks for reminding me where I wanted to end up Mom. Love you. : )
Little for a Little While says
I wish I could say that I had an amazing childhood, but I would be lying. I came from a broken home with a very depleted single mother, so I learned a lot of things not to do. But I think I am all the more stronger, strive harder, and love my kids more deeply because I have seen the other side. I want better for them, for me, for us. Any you know what? We’re doing mighty fine!
I absolutley love Popina swimsuits. Last year I bought two, I just couldnt choose! Any one will be lucky to win one!
earlynovemberlove says
My mom taught me to never stop learning! And how to make the best meatloaf, hands down.
Daniele says
Best thing my mom has taught me? That life is a party, and to treat it as such. Honestly, I’ve always worked at using that lens of perspective since I can tend to lean to the serious side of things. Good thing she’s always been there to lighten me up 🙂
Jill says
I missed my mama reading this sweet post. I lost her to breast cancer several years ago. As I watch my 3 and 4 year old boys grow, I remember often how gracefully my mama led us by her example. She was quiet and gentle and showed us through her actions how to live a good, full, happy life.
Jen says
My mom taught me, “Kill ’em with kindness”. I try to remember it when I am needing it most. Your blog helps promote this as well. We all need a bit more kindness out there to get through the messy parts of life. Looking for beauty in everyday things the way you do is so empowering. Something anyone can have power to do. Thank you for all you do and share!
Vanessa says
I love this post, it made me (of course) think of my own beautiful Momma. I used to think being like my Momma would be the worse thing ever… then I grew up, got a grip, and realized that she really did know best. She taught me to appreciate homegrown and homemade food, she showed me the beauty of drinking a beer and playing guitar with friends on the porch on a Summer night, and makes me feel like I’m perfectly beautiful in a knee-length nightgown or pair of overalls. Thanks, Momma. 🙂
All that said — girl, I need this bathing suit like you don’t even know. Turning 30 does funny things to your body, one of them being that the string bikini from last year just isn’t gonna fly…
Delia says
My Mama taught me to trust myself and believe in myself. Mama knows whats best for her babies.
ARH3584 says
Firstly, that lipstick on you = perfection.
Secondly, Nella hovering over that keyboard cracks me up!! She always looks so focused and serious 🙂
Thirdly to answer your question, my mom, like yours is the worlds best pie crust maker… And lucky for me I have learned the trade. I think I just inherited it though… I can’t cook for crap, but I can bust out a perfect pie crust like no body’s business!
Alli says
My mom is an amazing woman. She taught me to be a planner, to set goals, and put my family first.
Tina says
That bathing suit is TO DIE FOR. Holy crap!!! I love it! But, than again, you look amazing in everything so… 😛
I must know… when your Mom reads this post, will she need a box of tissues? Because I know my Mom would need two boxes. 😉
Keely D says
My mother in law has taught me to be patient, enjoy my kids because they grow up so fast and also how to make a mean pie as well.
mommieof4munchkins says
This post makes me miss my momma something fierce! 29 years with her was just not enough. I often wonder what our lives would be like if she was still here to bless them. We do have a pretty damn special angel though!
rameelin says
I learned from my mom to cherish each other’s voices. Someday, when she’s gone I hope I remember hers as vividly as I remember my grandma’s. I learned to garden. I learned to send cards via snail mail because they mean the most. I learned how to be loud, assertive and passionate.
Great post!
amy says
so many things learned from my mama! “we all have strengths and weaknesses.” “be kind to yourself.” now that i’m a mom we talk about the pure intensity with which we love our kids and i understand how much she loves us. it’s awesome.
Lindsey says
My momma taught me that a full house is a happy house and everyone can be a part of your family.
Emily says
Oh my God, I LOVE your swimsuit! Red’s my favourite colour!
What I learned from my mom? Oh, where to begin? Being strong doesn’t mean you can’t cry. Listening is a skill and a good one to develop. Hugs are the best medicine. Taking the extra time to do something correctly is worth it in the end. Love reading, it will be a friend for life.
Maine Mummy says
Multi-tasking. My. Mum can literally do everything all at once!
The Monkey and Me says
In addition to the importance of a hommeade birthday cake, and endless crafting skills- that woman can make anything – My mom taught me to never let yourself wallow in your own self pity -at least not for long – brush yourself off and pick yourself up – because no matter how hard you think you have it – there’s someone else out there you can help lift up.
Rachael says
Loved this, and can’t wait until my mama becomes a grandmama in a few years. One of my favourite things I’ve learned from my mum is that what goes around, comes around – kindness is never unrewarded. And also, if you kill a spider, it rains the next day.
Lisa @ Heaven Sent says
Such a heart-warming post. I never thought of this “middle place” and I quite like it. Such an awesome way to describe our role right now…to learn, to teach. There’s such a wonderful comfort knowing that we still have a lot to learn, yet we have the power to make changes as we see fit.
My mama taught me how to be honest. How to have a servant’s heart. How to eat healthy, and how to be the kind of mom that plays Candyland, cooks real, soul-warming dinners, and would rather read her kids 10 books than turn on the TV. Yeah, she’s pretty awesome.
Ramona Iordan says
love your blog! and the giveaway is great! keep writing. you are making people happy!
Tess says
My mom taught me that family is important and you have to work on those relationships just like you friendships.
Adriana Iris La Dulce Vida says
What I love about my mother?
She left me homeless at the age of 14 and even though those days were so hard and trying I have forgiven her. And she has taught me that time does heals wounds and we are all capable of change.
On a lighter note… I want that bathing suit because for the first time ever I am going to my 1st blogger conference in Miami this coming up April. I need something this sweet to inspire me to disrobe.
Louise says
My Mum taught me to make adventures out of the everyday, that the weekend is not the weekend without a family picnic, to be friendly and kind to everyone (she seriously knows every single person in my hometown by name!) and how to right the world with just a cup of tea and a listening ear!
Kelle, this post made me cry. My parents are visiting from the UK in two weeks time and I can’t wait to see them again and see them with my littles.
That swimsuit is a killer and those little blue earrings complete the look.
Hilary says
One of my favorite things I learned from my Mama – of which there are tons – is to find 3 ‘good things’ or ‘ordinary miracles’ in every day. She started doing it in college, she taught all of us, and she does it herself still.
LMU says
I love when my mom visits. I learned that no matter how old you are you have to think like a child, also a kiss to a babu or child is not complete without inhaling, and that cooking is a talent.
Ashalilly says
What I learned from my beloved step-mama:
*that not all step-moms are evil, and I really lucked out in the step-mom department
*that being an educated human being is both a privilege and a right, and my education is something no one can ever take away from me
*you can never say “I love you” too often
*traveling builds character, opens your eyes, and makes you appreciate cultural differences and where you call home
*how to make a killer “BAS”…which is an acronym for “Big Ass Salad”
*crying is a healthy and purposeful response to many things, and she will always be there to listen and help if I want her to
*being a hard-working, intelligent, multi-faceted woman is awesome
Mrs. Jorgensen says
My mom taught me that there’s no job more important than being a mom. She taught me that Clorox 2 is the key to keeping your whites looking brand new, and that a kitchen floor isn’t clean until you’ve mopped it on your hands and knees. She taught me the virtue of patience, the importance of faith, and the power of love.
Thanks, Kelle!
Kelly says
I lost my mom 2 years ago (as of yesterday) to cancer and I was only 27 years old, but I cannot even tally up all the amazing things she taught me in those 27 years. She showed me how to give sacrificially, how to be spontaneous, and how to make any dinner festive. 🙂
Kellyn says
My mama taught me to be open and honest. As a kid, she talked to me about everything and I never felt left out. In turn, I told her everything and was never scared to go to her with anything! I want that with my girls too!
sarah says
First off, you look fabulous!
I have learned from my mom, to love unconditionally, to be patient and kind and to just be myself.
Kristin B says
I learned from my mom to have a strong work ethic, to show love no matter what and to always treat others the way you would want to. Always offer a smile and a kind word…it could mean everything to the person who is receiving it.
nohasslecastle says
I’ve learned that mamas can be one of your best friends. I see how much my mom loves my grandma and now that I’m an adult, my mom is more to me than just my mother; she’s my FRIEND!! She taught me to cook and clean and take care of a household (which my very Italian husband is grateful for!) and to be hospitable and invite people over “just because”. She also taught me to love Jesus and show others His love. I’m so thankful for my mom and want to be just like her “when I grow up”.
Andrea
nohasslecastle says
I’ve learned that mamas can be one of your best friends. I see how much my mom loves my grandma and now that I’m an adult, my mom is more to me than just my mother; she’s my FRIEND!! She taught me to cook and clean and take care of a household (which my very Italian husband is grateful for!) and to be hospitable and invite people over “just because”. She also taught me to love Jesus and show others His love. I’m so thankful for my mom and want to be just like her “when I grow up”.
Andrea
nicki says
my MOM is my ROCK!! She has taught me to cherish every moment, that we are only passing by in this world, so live it up and keep your loved ones close!
Life with Kaishon says
I am so happy that your Mama is there. That is the best : )
Christie says
I Love my Mom too! She taught me how to be assertive! While she struggled to be a good mother to us 5 kids due to her lifelong battle with depression. It didn’t stop her from teaching us how to get results!
Lisa says
Without a doubt, the most important and long-lasting lesson I learned from my mom is to love unconditionally. Love when they are sweet and cuddly, love when they are naughty and deserve a time-out, love when they are sick or sad. Always love, and they will know they are loved. I don’t want my kids to ever doubt that I will never stop loving them. Thank you to my mom for giving me the same security.
This post made me cry, by the way 😉
Tricia says
my mom taught me how to always put my family first!
Walkerfam00 says
Your post rang so deeply true for me and the stage of life I am in. Love it! My mom taught me to carry myself with grace and dignity. She also taught me that having class has nothing to do with the balance of your bank account. Love my mama!
anna says
As I look back on my childhood I see my Mom giving 100% of herself to whatever task she attempted. Wether it was raising her children or sewing a figure skating costume. She always said “all you can do is your best”.
Klemm Family says
There’s nothing better than having Mom around! I learned how to be accepting of others, how to love and support others, and how to be a good mom 🙂
Valorie says
My dear Aunt San (aka mama) passed away last August. She taught me to value the precious moments in time, not the things we aquire. She also taught me to lean on my faith in God over all else for support. Today marks the end of a 25-year career for me in order to follow my beloved husband overseas and I celebrate all we were able to teach and do to lead our children to adulthood. And THEY MAKE PIES! I love your blog.
Kasey says
My mama taught me to nurture. I’m hoping that one day, she’ll pass her green-thumb onto me!
Sara says
My mom is my best friend and she taught me how to be a smart woman and how to be a great mother to my own baby girl!!
Andrea says
From my mom- I’ve learned to cook quite well from scratch and hopefully someday I can learn to give as selflessly as she does to her children and now, grandchildren.
PS) I got a Popina swimsuit last year that I love!! (but is losing color from months of chlorine!)
GLENDA CHILDERS says
I lost my mom to cancer 6 years ago. She left us with a great heritage of life lessons. One is that I am stronger than I think. And life is fun. I could go on all day.
Fondly,
Glenda
marissa (stylebook) says
pies on pi day! 🙂
my mom taught me an endless number of amazing things, of course… but my favorite? dressing for the occasion. my love of themed parties and, ahem, themed outfits definitely came from her! that said, i’m moving to miami in a few weeks, and i think a new swimsuit is just what that event calls for! xo
5boysand1girlmake6.com says
Omg! I just bought that suit!!! I lOve popina since the red and white polka dot suit!!!! Best suits ever! My mom taught me to be good to others. Bring a pie to the friend that is sick or lend a hand to someone who needs it. Very thankful for that. Enjoy your time with your mama! Love Katie
Angella says
Ahhh…this makes me miss my Momma. She taught me so many things but I have to say I enjoy her time spent with me in the kitchen teaching me to cook. I always feel at home when I’m cooking and I feel closer to her when I do. I love and miss her and I make sure to tell my girlfriends how blessed they are to still have Mommies.
KTRose Jensen says
My mom always reminds me of the way to show people that you love and appreciate them…
a quick text, a short postcard, a soul-filling hug, a reusable coffee sleeve, a voicemail just to say she’s proud of you…
All those wonderful things you forget you need until you get them from your mom!
"H" is for Heather says
My mama taught me that sometimes dessert comes first. My mama-in-law taught me to make pie.
Thanks for the opportunity!!
Shannon says
What a sweet post! I hope to be the pie baking Grandma someday too 🙂
I learned to be sure to make many sweet moments with your kids because it will go by so fast.
LaurieDoc says
From my mother I learned to take a chance and talk to that stranger – you never know who is going to be a new friend. From my “other mother”, Mom Foley, I learned to cook, and damn skippy she taught me well! I am so glad that your mom (and dad) are there to share your family with you – family is all that matters.
Julia says
I’ve learned so much from my mom – how to be the life of the party, how to fake it till you make it, how to cry at the dorkiest times, and hopefully how to be there for my own kids some day!
Jaclyn Hicks says
I learned to take a step back and cherish the in between moments, the ones you normally would have dismissed, those are the ones that count.
The Hancock Family says
A few things learned from my mother–I learned that it’s okay to ‘go off schedule sometimes’, that we can do whatever we put our minds to do, to never underestimate the power of prayer, and how to make the best homemade sugar cookies you will ever sink your teeth into–topped with the best frosting you’ve ever tasted leaving you wanting to lick the bowl. 🙂
Lia says
What a wonderful mama post. I’m spoiled to have mine just blocks away.
I’d love to have one of those adorable suits. Maybe this year my name will be picked (fingers crossed).
Annette says
This post has me crying because I lost my mother when I was 22 right before I became a mama. I miss her every day and I hope I make her proud. I try very hard to make her somewhat present in my boys lives. They might of never met her but they talk about her like they have based on all the stories they have heard about her. Even though I had her for such a short time, I did learn many things from her… How to never let a day go by without letting the people you love know exactly that, appreciate the little thing, and just be proud of who you are. She was also an amazing baker and I think I inherited a little bit of that talent.
Melissa says
My mother-in-law has been in my life for 17 years, and at 33, that is a long time:) She has taught me so much, I don’t think I could name just one thing, but something I really appreciate is her wisdom and the way she “gets” life. I know people complain and joke about their in-laws, but I really hit the jackpot!
alisha says
My mom taught me what it looks like to be faithful. I’ve learned so much from her!
Jessica says
The best thing I learned from my Mama is how to love fiercely. How to love like its the last day of your life. How to smother my kids in kisses and hugs, and that sometimes all they really need is my hand to guide them. And that swimsuit? HOT!
Ali says
Kelle,
L-O-V-E your new springtime lipstick. I dying to know it’s name. It’s lovely on you.
Ali
Elizabeth says
My Mom taught me (and is teaching me) how to truly love unconditionally. There is no love like the love of my Mother. She is amazing.
Lelly says
Because of her battle with a life threatening illness, I learned from my mother to take each day as it comes– loving each and every moment because it is YOURS. No matter how much time they say you have left, each moment is still your own and deserves to be enjoyed. That, and to put on music when you absolutely must scour the bathtub. 🙂
Adrien says
Love this. 🙂
My mom taught me to be the mom I want to be. I love going to her house and feeling less like the “mom” and more like the kid again.
Christa Forsythe says
My Momma taught me how to make pies, sew, drive a car, say please and thank you, always smile for the camera… and many, many, many other things!
I love that picture of Lainey and her friend in from of the lily pad pond…. so beautiful!
Marina says
I’ve read this post and couldn’t comment. I needed some time to think and to thank you for bringing such a great memories of the childhood. What I’ve learned from my mother? To love, to be patient, to bake bread, to laugh…
Sarah says
I totally know what you mean about being in the “middle place” and appreciating my mom so much more now! I’ve learned so many things from my mom, but one of my favorites is making the home-made noodles that she and my grandmother both made.
Heather says
“Choose your battles wisely” – these are words often spoken by my mother while growing up & on the day I got married. Best advice I have ever gotten!
PS: Love that photo of you & Nella at the computer…beautiful!!
Kate says
My mom taught me strength. A young widowed woman (27), with 3 kids (7,5,3) managed to make it all on her own. She could have given up a hundred times, and had the perfect excuse to, but she persevered and came out of the “storm” with a brave smile. I’ve said it all my life, my mom is my hero.
Nicole S says
A good friends mom silently watched as I completely freaked out after my son took a small fall. After I had mended his wounds, calmed him down and calmed myself down, she quietly came over and took my hands in hers. She looked at me and said “He’s a boy and he’s definitely going to hurt himself, maybe much worse than you’ll want to think about. You have to remain calm as his Mama. He’s going to look to you to know how to react. Just stay as calm as possible and so will he. If he’s really hurt your both gonna know right away anyway . . . Stay calm.” Best advice ever! I think of it and her quite often, even more now that I have two. Stay calm! 🙂
Sheila says
I learned a lot from my momma watching her take care of us after my dad died young…..at 9 years of age we (my twin sister and I) had many added responsibilities…but mom knew the importance of “play time”. And even now….I make time for “play”. 🙂
I am heading over to check out those swimsuits….I could really use a new suit before heading to Miami in a couple weeks! 🙂
Sarah says
LOVE this post. I didn’t always have the best relationship with my mom and have always wondered if that would impede my ability to mother. So what I learned from my mother is that, good can come from indifferent. You don’t have to have someone model how to love and care, to give it to others, it is innate.
Things are getting better with my mom, but this experience has taught me that I don’t want to wait to be a good mom when my daughter is older…it should be that way from the beginning.
Love to see Nella following in mama’s footsteps (aka future best selling author)!
Megan@TrueDaughter says
My mom taught me so many things, I have a hard time choosing what to say. She has taught me that there is something good in everyone, you just have to look for it. That everyone deserves a second chance. That there is always room for one more…at the table, in your home, in your life. She taught me that children are to be treasured and savored, and to enjoy every minute of them, because they grow up too fast. She taught me a devotion to the Blessed Mother that I cherish.
And – you look rockin’ in that swim suit!
Meredith and Jason says
Dang it, now I want to eat pie!
I learned that you should give people the benefit of the doubt. It’s much better to assume the best of people than to assume the worst.
alc537 says
My mama taught me to be honest with yourself, love whole heartedly, and put lipstick on everyday even if you skipped all other make up! 🙂
LiBe says
I loved this post, as it brought so many happy memories flooding back from my childhood.
As for me, the favourite thing I learned from my Mum is to just keep going.
Even when the future looks dark, and you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, forge ahead, because it is there.
Ryan and Amber says
Oh how I love my mama. She taught me how to teach my littles. She still teaches me that. And I love it and eat it up ravenously.
She also taught me the value of a good fitting swimsuit. Ha ha
Anne Marie says
best things I learned from my mom, how to pray hard, love my kids constantly and with everything I have in me, when to plant, how to plant and how to keep flowers thriving, how to make spaghetti sauce and how to keep a bathroom shining.
Kaiti says
My mom taught me how to make a mean spaghetti sauce!
Vitality says
I lost my Mom three years ago in April but I will forever be grateful she taught me to be thoughtful!
Lindsay says
My mom has taught me strenght and compassion. She has been an amazing example of these, especially beginning almost 14 years ago when my “baby” sister was born and has many, many special needs. She never complains and even though caring for my sister is exhausting, she still finds time to do so much for others.
Amy Parris says
I learned to make homemade ravioli, feed a crowd, open my home for hospitality and be there for my kids…always. Also, I learned how to serve others and not be so self-focused. Most importantly, I learned how to be a mama!
Marisa says
She taught me that I can do anything, and that I am loved. She’s coming to visit this weekend!
Emily Hale says
My mother still cleans my apartment when she comes to visit!
sd says
She taught me to give without expecting anything in return. I love her with all my heart and appreciate her more everyday (specially since becoming a mom myself) Thanks Kelle!
kate says
Beautiful post, as always.
I’m so grateful that my mom taught me the importance of taking deep breaths.
Crystal says
From my Mom and my Gramma I learned to be a giver – of time, of food and of caring. They never went anywhere without taking along some bit of baking or goodness from their gardens – and I find myself doing the very same thing. I am proud to be like that! And I would love to wear one of those swimsuits – thanks for sharing! Enjoy your days with your Mama!
Julie says
My hair is going gray EARLY, your mom gives me hope that I may someday be able to pull it off gracefully.
Aw… The middle. It’s the warmest, coziest, most full place to be. I love thinking of it like that. My mom is one of the most thoughtful and patient people I’ve ever known. I strive to be more like her every single day.
Beverly says
From my mom, I learned not to let the past define me, to love my daughter fiercely and to dig my hands into the dirt and do good work.
Katie-Lee says
I LOVE my mama! We are so close and every day I am
thankful for the things she has taught me…how to be an amazing and selfless wife, how to make bread and love cooking, canning, sewing among other things. My husband and I are expecting our first baby in August and I can’t wait to become even more like my mom then!
The bathing suits are gorgeous.
Xoxo
Christa says
Love that middle place myself. My children consider my mom just another piece of our little family. I have a few friends who really appreciate the 6-8 hour breathing space between their homes and their parents, but I live a few blocks away from mine and it’s never seemed too close. I admire my mom more with each day I spend with my own kids. Raising five kids who all, as adults, think the world of you is no small feat. My kids feel lost if they don’t see my parents every day and often choose to hang out there or stay with them over going to their own friends. There are a lot of not-so-great things about where we live, but that alone makes the sacrifices worth it.
Lauren says
My mom is my absolute favorite person in the world, I love her to pieces. I don’t know where I would be without her. The best thing she taught me is to be open minded and kind to everybody.
I remember on the first day of middle school, I was nervous about making friends. She told me that everybody else felt the same way I did, even if they didn’t act like it. So she told me to be friendly to everybody and I would be fine! It works to this day!
PS: A new bathing suit would be glorious because I’m in the middle of a weight loss challenge and can use the motivation! Thanks!
sheri says
Oh dear. Those matching piggy buns make me so happy!
My mama is still teaching me a million things – something new everyday. But one thing she taught me that’s important and I remember every day is this – be careful what you say about other people; you never know what they’re going through and you never know if their mama is sitting right behind you. Good advice. Good advice.
Kathy says
to know that i am always good enough.
~*Nicole*~ says
Unconditional love….when the going gets tough, you hug your family a bit tighter.
Tonya says
I am learning so much more from my mom now that I’m a mama myself. And of the many things she has taught me, from how to cook and sew to how to garden, I suppose the greatest thing she has taught me is how to love and accept my children no matter their faults. I strive each day to follow her great example of what it means to love and serve your family.
Leah says
Beautiful post, beautiful pics! Your Mama seems like such a lovely lady. Looks like you learned from the best! My Mama taught me how to make veggie soup, chili, and cobblers, and so many more things about life. Most important, she taught me about God. I love her dearly. Your grandchildren, like your children, will be very blessed to have you in their lives! 🙂
WesandCaren says
My mom taught me to be courageous and that everyone has something to offer. I really appreciate that last one.
Averyl Minori says
I learned to love my kid with everything I have….and to not worry about being perfect all the time.
Diana Doyle says
Every day is precious…and how to dance on tables!
I miss her everyday.
Enjoy your time with your Mamma Kelle.
love
Diana x
Rachel says
I learned from my mommy to pray like you mean it, to try and always think of others first, that beauty on the inside will show up on the outside, and to love the marginalized in extravagant ways! I know this makes you want to meet her b/c she is amazing like that!
The girls says
Oh my goodness, I live for visits from my mom. I’ve found that I appreciate and love her so much more now that I’m an adult.
She’s taught me that love grows. As I get older, my heart could just burst with the love I feel for my family.
Christina says
Beautiful post. I’m glad you’re having a great visit.
Mindy says
I have the best Mom–how can I pick just one thing?! As the mom of two boys, one of my favorite things I learned was to let your kids get messy. If they want to lay in the dirt, roll in the mud, help bake, paint, whatever. Clothes and children always wash and the messiest things are often the best memories!
Julie @ my tiny bookworm says
My mum taught me the importance of having a parent very close by, especially during the early years. She and my dad sacrificed a lot so that she could stay home with us when we were young and so I have done the same.
Love your new bathing suit! You look great in red. And I love the ruffles.
Lindsay says
I love my mom. 🙂 She taught me how to not take life too seriously, not take myself too seriously, to have fun, to cook good food, to spend the money on good memories more than fancy things, and to love Disneyland. 🙂
Knight Family says
My mom taught me to be kind, to have patience, and to have faith ….that everything happens for a reason
Mami says
I learned to stop and think before i go crazy!
Kim says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sabrina says
My mom has taught me how important it is to have a voice. To be heard. To state my case and stick with it. To have my own favorite color and not change it because someone else likes another. She taught me this because I saw her do the opposite, and saw how it didn’t work for her.
Imagine my delight when at 51 she found her voice for the first time in my life. I love her for not giving up on herself.
Red Stethoscope says
I learned to always be kind to the new kid in class.
The Burke Family says
Love the suit on you!! My Mom is my best friend and there is no greater joy than watching her and my babies love each other! My mom has taught me more than I could ever write out but I think best of all she has taught me compassion and love…
Regina says
I would say my mother taught me how to be a good person. I really miss her now that I’m a mama too. She would have been the best grandmother.
Erin says
Oh this post made me cry….how I wish I could have this type of relationship with my mom. What I’ve learned from my mom…hmmm….how about that I will tell my kids every single day that I love them more than words. And that I am proud of them for who they are. Sometimes it’s what you don’t hear that you need to hear the most. I wish my mom could tell me that she is proud of me.
Cara says
I’ve learned that’s OK to walk away from a situation if it’s just not right and not feel the need to please everyone. So glad you are having fun with your momma!
Kim says
My best friends mom taught me how to bake after school in 4th grade. It’s one of my favorite memories.
I really enjoy reading your words (pre-ordered the book today!), it also doesn’t hurt that you guys are so stinking cute. :o)
Kristin says
Love the reference to Kelly Corrigan (both her books are faves!) and love your line ‘We’ll cushion her up good–love on every side’–so sweet and true!! Can’t wait to read your book!
I’ve learned to cherish family and talk to them often, near or far. To laugh so hard I sometimes cry. To read lots, rock babies softly to sleep, and understand the importance of being who you are and never stop chasing your dreams.
Babs says
My mom taught me that being a mama is the best thing that can happen to you. It allows you to give unconditional love, and to assist in the formation of loving people. No matter what challenges life holds for us, having our children is our reward. Mama died four years ago, moving me from the middle to the top. How I miss being the middle, despite my delight with my role as Grammy. I wish we could have become a huge, living sandwich for many more years.
Jennifer from NJ says
the pies look so yummy! I have learned from my mom to be kind to the old people when they talk to you in the store. sometimes you will be the only person they talk to all week, so listen to them and engage in short conversation, then go on your way and finish shopping. the 5 extra minutes isnt going to matter to me but it will sure to matter to them.
Lauren Ann Davis says
to love deeply when you are at your weakest and to spread love when you are at your best.
now as a mom i hope i can do the same
Cheri says
My mother taught me that she knows everything. She has a way of knowing. No matter what you do, she’ll find out.
… I can only hope my kids believe the same about me.
Jen says
I loved this post because I’m also happiest when I’m with my mom AND my kids. That is the best. I learned from my mom to laugh a lot and that being a mom is pretty much the most important thing there is. Have a great week with your mom!
lazyblogger says
I learned to honest and truthful from my mother. I also learned to enjoy the life you are given!
liz says
I learned how to cross stitch and knit from my mom 🙂 I remember thinking her ‘groupings’ hanging on the walls of our house growing up were annoying, her older pictures and cross stitch samplers. Now, I find myself ‘grouping’ and love me a good sampler. Enjoy your time with your mom!
Michelle says
My mama taught me to believe in myself & never give up. There are trials & tribulations in our lives but if you put the Lord first you can get through anything! Also she makes some mean fudge!! No matter how hard I try it never taste as good as hers! Yum!!
LOVE the vintage swimsuit!!
Courtney says
I’m still learning from my Mom every day and I am beyond happy that our relationship has just continued to grow and mature. I smile just thinking about how seeing my son, her first grandchild, can light up both my son’s and my mom’s faces. She has taught me about working hard, never giving up on dreams, and always making family a priority.
meg@ourwaytoeat.com says
From my Momma, who I also often call Momma, I’ve learned to do my best, she always does her’s; to be grateful; to pursue creative endeavors every single day. I have learned that serving food beautifully, and making more than enough both help people to enjoy it. I have learned to go to the end of the earth for the people in my circle, to work hard, to keep private things private, to shop with coupons, buy jewelry, even if it is really reasonable jewelry, and to look my best. I love your red suit. I think Momma would approve, especially when she’s driving me around the lake in her red boat (and probably going a little faster than I’d like). Thanks as always for your beautiful, inspiring blog. Meg @ ourwaytoeat.com
Stacy Monaghan says
My mom taught me to use time to let other people come around to your way of thinking. It requires a patience that I am still learning, but it works often and well.
Heather says
I learned to be able to get things done around the house and spend good time with the kids while being a full time working mom.
Ashley says
Great post. I have learned to rock my babies as long as I can and to make time for one more bedtime story.
Unknown says
I have recently become a mama myself, and I have developed such a deep appreciation for my own mama. I have learned so much from her – I have learned about the woman I want to be, and more importantly about the mother I want to be. She loves us (I have an older sister) without reservation and ALWAYS made sure to tell us. As a child I didn’t really appreciate what it meant, as a teenager I was embarrassed when she did it in public, but now as an adult I know how lucky I am to have been told every single day (often dozens of times) just how much I was loved. She continues to do so to this day. I make sure to tell our son every day just how much we love him, and I hope one day he will feel the same way about me as I do about my mama.
I have been reading your blog for a few months now, and I always look forward to it. You are such a gifted writer and photographer, and it is evident just how much you love your family and friends. Thank you for sharing!
Jasmine says
Pies on Pi Day (3.14). Love it!
My mom lives in Naples…miss her so much! She has taught me to be the best mom I can be.
Jennifer says
My momma taught me to work hard and above all else, love your kids. She also stuck in there how to make good German food like her Momma taught her. :0)
– jen
ellen says
I learned from my mom that taking your kids places is more important that having a tidy house. My brother used to say, “we did everything in LA twice.”
Jess.Pollard says
Show up! In a crisis or for fun and nEver ask them if they want you to. And always keep you eye out for heart shaped rocks 🙂
janelle says
I learned to be creative and use your hands. Love thinking abou being in the middle; thanks for that.
Kristen says
Oh Lord, where to start. To love nature, to make something from nothing, to love people, to work like a farm girl, to be a good daughter, sister, and wife. Moms like mine are hard to come by and give me so much to strive for. The best part is that she is an even better grandma to my kids.
catherine.elizabeth says
Oh Kelle, I have to say I am so happy that you are so blessed to have such a wonderful mama. Although my relationship with my own Mom leaves much to be desired, my Mom has shown me that becoming a Grandma is really where the joy in motherhood can be found. Its like you keep all the very best parts of motherhood, with the sweetness of becoming a Grandma, and subtract the craziness, control and desperate worries from when you are “in the trenches” of motherhood.
Dang girl, you can rock that vintage red suit like nobodies business!
Kelsey says
I love your blog! My ma taught me how to be independent and responsible. She also taught be how to be caring and selfless, she was such a great role model, and you are right, being in this middle place is great!
kelly says
I used to sit on the floor and watch my mother sew clothes for us, not knowing or realising I was actually learning to sew. Now as an adult I can sew clothes for my own children, and they in turn sit and watch me……and one day they will know how to sew for their babies…
Children learn so much from watching you….thats what i learnt from my mother.
xo kelly
Jenny says
To write thank you notes and long letters to friends, proper manners and etiquette and of course how to love with all that I am.
C.R. Designs says
My mama taught me to love fiercely and to never stop following my dreams. She also taught me to never give up. She passed away in 2008 but her advice has never left me. I hope to pass it onto my daughter. Plus my mother in law, queen of amazing pies. I can’t wait to see my daughter making pies with her nana. 🙂
C.R. Designs says
My mama taught me to love fiercely and to never stop following my dreams. She also taught me to never give up. She passed away in 2008 but her advice has never left me. I hope to pass it onto my daughter. Plus my mother in law, queen of amazing pies. I can’t wait to see my daughter making pies with her nana. 🙂
amypins says
how to be selfless. I always feel my mom gave up so much for us, she had all 3 of us by the age of 21
Jennie - Duryea Place Designs says
My mom taught me everything wonderful that I know. How to be kind, loving and strong. She is my best friend to this day!
Enjoy the time with your Mama!!
P.S. LOVE that suit!
Sarah says
I learned to think of others, to forgive, to piddle, to be a good friend, among many things;)
The Gustafsons says
Your mom is like the picturesque grandma. I love it!
Stephanie Willson Barsness says
The best thing my Momma ever taught me was to “Give it up to God” in all ways. Give it up with gratitude and give it up with sorrow, frustration, love, and joy!
You’ve got it all, Kelle!
Rebekah says
I learned from my mama:
To love unconditionally
How to be independent
And hopefully how to someday be a good wife. Because she is the best one I know.
Anneliese says
love these suits! i learned to make more than enough food when you are having dinner guests. no one likes to worry if there is going to be enough to go around.
Rachel says
love this post! Okay, I love ’em all, but this was extra wonderful! I learned to work hard, play hard, and think things thru before I jump!
thanks for being you! Xoxo
Jen says
My Mom taught me how to put family first.
I love those suits but wonder how they bit big boobied ladies?
Bri!!! says
I learned to be grateful, and to see the hand of the Lord in my daily life!
Gage says
Wow – my mom is amazing. i think one of the things I have learned most from my mom is to talk with your kids. I tell my mom everything and I want my kids to do the same.
Shelly W. says
This is so beautiful, Kelle. (Especially the pies–I can’t make a good pie to save my life.)
My mom taught me to persevere. She lost her only son when he was nine years old (I was eleven), and she and my dad made their marriage work, despite the odds stacked against them. They have been married for 52 years, and their commitment to each other and to God has meant more to me than anything.
abby says
What I’ve learned from my mom…everything does not have to be perfect, put God first and be proud of your height…stand up tall with your shoulders back
everydaymomma says
I learned what I wanted to differently,I wanted to break cycles and leave beautiful memories.i try every day.
Candice says
My Mom taught me that she’s not perfect, but she’s willing to know when she made a mistake, apologize for it and modify her methods. We’re closer today because of that!
lega11ybrunette says
I would love to wear one of those bathing suits! They are so cute.
tulitha says
My mums most enduring saying to me: ‘wherever you are, there you are’ (basically, you can never run away from your problems and who you are). She impressed on me to learn to be content where I am planted, and from her example I saw how to enjoy my children and to invest in my marriage, not just let it run to ruin.
Kristie says
Not sure if it posted the last time….My mama taught me ‘if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything…and my dear Granny always said, ‘Be nice or folks won’t like you’…words to live by
Sarah says
I love that my Momma rarely has a negative thing to say, is a ‘glass half full’ kind of lady, adores my children, is a fabulous wife to my Dad, can’t stand being late (or even just on time!), gets cuter and more stylish as she ages, and taught me to clean the house with fun music playing and candles burning!
Melissa :) says
My mother is prejudice. What did I learn from my mother?
I learned that love knows no color. I have 4 adopted children. My girls are bi-racial – AA & CC. I see no color anywhere, on anyone. I see hearts.
I learned from my mother, to be nothing like her. And for that, I am grateful. ♥
Angela says
My memory is from my Grandma. I miss growing up in Florida (now live in Maryland via Chicago). My Grandma was in love with Kino Sandals (from Key West) and always made sure me and my sisters had a pair each year growing up. I’m now 36 and my Grandma passed away last summer. I haven’t had a pair of those beloved sandals for years until she left me a huge bag of new sandals that I inherited. I’m wearing them now.
<3
Cherie Dee says
The things I’ve learned from my Mom…homemade birthday cakes will always be remembered over a store bought cake. Even the imperfect ones! From my Grandma I’ve learned the little secrets to her famous cooking. It has nothing to do with following the recipe, it’s all about the unhealthy little touches she adds along the way that make everything taste so good! 🙂
youaremysunshine says
your mom is beautiful! love the lip color! my mom taught me to be nice/kind to everyone…not just certain groups…but to be friends/friendly to all. She taught me that a good good laugh, one that you laugh so hard you cry, is the best medicine. i love when people tell me that i laugh like my mom! 🙂 i’m so thankful to God that i still have my mom and that we live close. i love watching her love my kids and seeing them love her back. this is my first post ever…but i’ve been reading for over a year…and you and your beautiful family bless me every time i read! thank you! xoxo
Becky says
My mom teaches me everyday. Lately I’ve been learning from her that the best time is when my siblings and I are all in town and we’re all around the dinner table eating, laughing, drinking, and loving. Knowing that the new adventures in our lives (babies, marriages, master’s degrees) will bring so much joy and more memories to our already rich family.
Tracy says
My mom has taught me so many things just by her example. She’s taught me to love, she’s taught me to laugh at myself, to love Rod Stewart and Michael Bolton, and she has taught me to be content. I don’t need every material thing in the world to be happy and I don’t have to have these fabulous plans laid out for every day. It’s the tiny little things that count. The family dinners, the beautiful sunsets, the cycle of the moon, the birds chirping outside the window, she enjoys life’s little gifts. I cannot see a beautiful sunset or a full moon without thinking of my Mom. A couple weeks ago the moon was hanging so low and so bright and I called her, “Are you looking at the moon?” I said. She couldn’t see it from her house, so she made my brother get in the car with her and they drove. Unfortunately it was too cloudy to see the Chicago Moon in St. Leon, Indiana’s sky, so she didn’t get to see it, but wanted me to take a picture. It’s the little things.
Plus one Wee Bean says
Oh man this one is close to my heart!
Moms!
The greatest invention of all time!
Like yours, my Mom has taught me that every young lady needs to know how to make pastry.
That you need to believe in you so others can too.
That honesty is always the only choice.
Wow, this entry may be one of my favorites yet Kelle. Thank you.
Love the part about looking back for inspiration and forward as well. LOVE!!
Crack You Whip says
This post makes me happy because it is so sweet and good and it makes me sad because I don’t have a mom.
Mostly happy:)
Renee' says
My Mother was the Martha Stewart of the 50’s. I learned how to be a great Mom, and even better Nana. She cooked 3 full meals a day, including baking a dessert for the evening meal. She canned her own veggies, froze her fresh fruits, ironed everything, managed to raise four wonderful children and through it all, remained sane! I miss her every day and will love her forever!
Abs says
Those suits are fab! I always admire how you and Dig wear them with such confidence. Would love to win one but if not, this just might be the summer when I splurge on one:)
Heather says
Oh…there is nothing better than having Nana at our house. I love watching my children adore all the things I adored doing with her as a child, but now they are amped up a little. They don’t just blow bubbles; they blow them inside. They don’t just bake; they make elaborate princess cakes. It’s bliss.
Mama taught me to go to bed good tired…fight the good fight with all you have and always with grace. She taught me to bake a mean pie and the value of a good sharp crayon. She taught me to try new things but come home to a comfy favorite, and she taught me to love learning. She taught me people come first–anything else can wait. In short, she taught me how to be a mama, and I pray I am doing the same for my daughter.
Renee' says
My Mother was the Martha Stewart of the 50’s. I learned how to be a great Mom, and even better Nana. She cooked 3 full meals a day, including baking a dessert for the evening meal. She canned her own veggies, froze her fresh fruits, ironed everything, managed to raise four wonderful children and through it all, remained sane! I miss her every day and will love her forever!
emily says
i learned from my mom to be independent, and that i truly can do anything. she lives 10 minutes from me, watches my girls 2 days a week, and i couldn’t be more thankful and blessed.
Abs says
Oh…and from my Mom? I learned that if something bothers you, you should just take care of it. Chances are it doesn’t bother anyone else nearly as much as it bothers you.
Cherie Dee says
My Mom taught me…a homemade birthday cake will long be remembered over a store bought cake. 🙂
Ashleigh says
My mother always taught me to savor the small things. It never really sunk in until I was a mother, but now I know how important and even rewarding it is to savor all the little joys (along with the big) that your children bring you.
Kari says
Mom taught me that when times are tough or I’m feeling down to remember that “this too shall pass”. Sounds simple and easy enough but is still so meaningful when you’re in the middle of a problem.
Amanda says
My momma taught me to be strong. She’s the strongest lady I know, dealing with a divorce and cancer and moving and coming out at the end even better and happier than she was at the beginning. She’s absolutely my hero. <3
Callie says
Love that middle space.
Also those swim suits.
And your blog.
Katharine says
My momma taught me that there’s nothing like coming home from school to fresh baked cookies. I plan to do that a lot!
Heather Lindquist says
I love this post, as it is perfectly timed…..today is the 4 year anniversary of my own mama’s death, and on this day each year, I focus on all the amazing qualities she had! She was a great mama, and I’ve learned a lot from her, on how to mother my own little ones.
Specifically, she taught me how to bake an awesome batch of cookies from scratch, to scratch out some time in my day to pamper myself, and to be a loving a free spirit of fun with my kids.
I miss her, but she left behind an incredible legacy of love!
Mary says
Love this post tonight, and you look fab in that swimsuit!
I’ve learned so much from my Mom…still learning infact, but a few standouts are: how to be strong, she endured so much in her life and is strong and happy. To be a loving mother, even when it’s hard. and how to make some wonderfully good cinnamon rolls. they are a family tradition.
Hillary says
What a beautiful post. When I went away to University and then after almost loosing my Mom this past December, I have a deeper appreciation for her then ever before. The one thing Mom has taught me, and not only through conversation, but by example, is how to welcome all into our home. She taught us that the door is always open for family and friends to come visit, to share in a meal, enjoy rich conversation and making all feel welcome. Our home is not large, but many gather and Mom truly lives out the saying ‘home is where the heart is’.
Jada says
My mom taught me the importance of a home cooked meal almost every night and to let boys be boys along with many other things.
April says
One thing my Mom taught me by her actions is that the best way to make someone feel noticed and loved is to ask them questions about themselves and take genuine interest in others rather than yourself.
raecatflea says
Kelle, my heart soaks up your beautiful balanced love of being a Mama and being a daughter. I find myself in this happy middle ground as well, and I couldn’t be more grateful. From my own Mama, I learned to be PRESENT and to CLAP. That woman knows how to ENJOY her moments- and she claps about them.
Lovely Love says
Love the pic of you and Nella sitting at your desk! And awesome lip stick too! You are so pretty ^_^ I actually had a dream about you last night! Isn’t that weird?!?!?! We hung out, and had a lot of fun! You were so nice, and such a great energy to be around 🙂 I got to see your girls, and hold Nella in my arms! In the dream I instantly fell in love with her. It may have been a dream but it felt so real, almost like it was. Even if I don’t ever meet you in “real” life it was fun getting to know you guys in dream world, which is sometimes better anyways. What have I learned from my mom? So many many things, it’s hard to pick just one. I guess I would have to say the most important one would be, that I admire how easy it is for her to be a mom, it’s what comes the most natural to her, and in seeing that it makes me want to be a really really good mom too! She is/was amazing at it! She put that first in almost all situations, and I think that’s very important.
alignaCristina from SomekindofParadise says
My mama taught me how to take care of my family,
how to take pride in my home and treasure game nights with the kids because well we all know its only a season that they are this small and want mommy and daddy to play games:}.. I’m blessed
P.S. Love that red swimsuit!!
Relationships are a spiritual practice says
My relationship with my mother is more complicated than it sounds like yours is. So, I learned many things from my mother. To garden, to make a home special, to appreciate beauty. But, I also learned what not to be. I am changing many patterns with my own mothering while keeping the charm and industriousness my mother showed me.
Château LaCar says
First off, there is something insanely magical about that shot of Nella in front of her computer. Is it the lashes? The colors? The sheer hope I felt because you can literally feel her determination? I don’t know, but it won my heart over.
Second, my mom taught me to have a voice. I’ve always loved that she encouraged us to be heard – only it’s making me a wee bit sad these days that it seems much of what I have to say in terms of how I parent my kids is in conflict with how I was raised and I believe the voice that she fostered is hurting her and that is just so hard. It’s a tough thing finding the balance between being somebody’s child and simultaneously the parent to two children some days … I’m still trying to find my way.
I’m so grateful for your blog – it never ceases to get me thinking and keep growing.
Renee' says
My Mother was the Martha Stewart of the 50’s. I learned how to be a great Mom, and even better Nana. She cooked 3 full meals a day, including baking a dessert for the evening meal. She canned her own veggies, froze her fresh fruits, ironed everything, managed to raise four wonderful children and through it all, remained sane! I miss her every day and will love her forever!
Guedo says
My mom has taught me that even when she/I is/am going in ten different directions for everyone else in the family, to take time to do things that I/she enjoy(s). My mom did everything for us and still does.
jeshiko says
My Mum told me the other day that I was the best mum ever. It made me so happy as I have been struggling a bit lately with my middle boy who has special needs. Love the swimsuits! My Mum and Dad are taking us on a family trip to Australia next month and I so need one!!!
Elizabeth says
I’ve learned from my mom that a good book is always in style, to pick my battles, love my babies like there’s no tomorrow, and to just be. Be myself, strive to be who I want, and to let what I can’t change to just be.
Melissa says
My mom taught me to never give up and always give 110%. She taught me to be firm yet loving. She taught me to be selfless and to constantly give give give. She taught me to love and she taught me about faith. I love my mom.
Nikki says
I have been reading your blog for awhile and never once posted a comment until now.
This post left me with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face.
I lost my Mom almost 5 years ago. She did however teach me something…to be a good Mom to my wonderful little boy..how to be strong when I didn’t think I could and also to make a wonderful pie crust..hang in there..you will get it!
Whitney says
My mother was a great example of how to be patient and kind and to make other people feel special and loved. I’m still a work in progress!
Anne says
Well said, Kelle. I learned from my mom that there is always room for more love in your heart, 1st baby, 2nd baby, 3rd baby, you love them all the same.
Crystal says
I learned to always — and I mean always — wear a slip underneath your skirt, and throw in a camisole if you can manage it. Never brake on the freeway, and give the boys a good chase.
Jolie says
The latest lesson I’ve gained from my amazing mother is learning how to be selfless and put others before myself.
As I’m getting older, I’m told how much I resemble my mother and how I act like her; 10 years ago that would have been a death sentence, now at the age of 25, it’s the grandest compliment. I can’t wait for the next 10.
Jenn says
From my mama, I learned that life isn’t about big moments…it’s about every small moment, tied together. She taught me to cherish every moment.
Carrie says
Aw this post made me cry–very sweet and true. I lost my mom (who was also my best friend) to cancer 6 years ago and oh how I long for her to be a grandma to my own young kids. Enjoy these times in the “middle place.”
Julie says
My mom was born in the same year as Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy Onassis, a generation of women who were confident in their role as mothers but who also learned to forge their way with class and grace during dramatically changing times for women. From her I learned that, even if chicken soup, a hot bath, and clean sheets can’t fix everything, the belief that it’s always right to show up and do something, goes a long, long way on a bad day.
Anna says
Ironically enough, my mama taught me how to enjoy the small things. To appreciate a beautiful day, smile at a stranger, and learn something new every day. I try to do those things every day and hope to teach my two small children to do the same.
justjaime31 says
I wish I learned HOW to be a mama…I have learned and failed LOTS in my almost 12 yr journey as a mama
Mama Loca says
I learned from my way fashion-forward, Cher-loving, trendsetting, gorgeous mama to not fear taking fashion risks and to be bold in my choices if I so choose. Lost her 4 years ago, but her style legacy lives on!!!
PunkRockChic says
I’m learning from my mother-in-law what it means to be ever-patient. Her love and endless patience for her grandbabies absolutely inspires me. I love your bathing suit, by the way! So fabulous!
Andrea says
My mom taught me how to sew (even if I am a little rusty now!) One of my fondest memories is working together with her making my bridal veil. 🙂
Debbie says
Loved this post!
I agree the middle is a wonderful place to be. I am lucky in that mom is just a few miles away!
What she has taught me, to believe and pursue all my dreams, and to love unconditionally.
Mrs.M says
I learned to always find humor in life. We live cross country now and I miss her dearly. Thank God for technology! Her status updates make me laugh!
Laura says
From my mama?
I learned how to make a mean homemade pie crust, how to cook a meal for twenty men from scratch, how to effortlessly cloth diaper my babes, to work hard as a wife and mama at home, and to grow good foods from the earth. And that the best things come from home, from the heart.
But dang, I also learned her love of eating said meals and said pies… so in my hard work of losing weight, now? Da-yum, I’d be lovin’ myself in that there swimsuit.
Lozzy says
I have learnt everything from my Mum, and I continue to learn from her every day. I am blessed that she lives around the corner and that she is my best friend in the entire world.
Lola says
I learned to smile a lot and laugh even more. Will love to wear a bathing suit.
Lindy says
I’m so excited to see my mama next week! I learned from my mom that we have to make the choices for ourselves that will make us the best mom.
KP says
My mom taught me to stand up for what i believe in. I can be the red flower in the field of yellow flowers and that’s ok. 🙂
Colin and Sarah says
Wow! I was just looking at that site today! Looking for a one piece to hide my momma stripes 🙂 beautiful post as always. Can’t wait til we have some of that warm weather up in Canada!
This is my blog says
When I was a kid, my mom would blast musicals–ahem, mostly Les Miserables–in our grey minivan on the way to school. I learned to be OBSESSED with Singin’ in the Rain, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and them “Lovely Ladies” from Les Miserables 🙂
Elisha Pape says
My mama did it all when we were growing up-full time job, 3 kids and all while my dad worked long hours. she never complained. I never realized all she did until I became a mama myself and realized how hard it is to balance everything.
P.S. I love your new suit! so cute! I am going to need a new suit for when we vacation in Florida in May!
Heidi says
I learned from my mom to celebrate the big things and to take advantage of the every day moments that are big things, too. Family time is the most important time.
Too Much Good says
That suit is divine! My momma taught me to make up songs…you can never have a bad day when you are singing a song about loading the dishwasher.
ErinG says
Absolutely LOVE that suit!! And, I adore your blog and your sweet words about your mama.
My mama has taught me, that a mom is a daughters best friend. Forever. Not in the sense that she will sneak me smokes or liquor, but she will tell me the truth even if it hurts. And, that even when it feels like the whole world is coming down on me, even when I have made big big mistakes, she will love me just as I am. She was the first to play my favorite games with me, and still jumps at the chance to watch my favorite movies sitting by my side. She will listen to my secrets. When I go through hard times she is there to hold my hand. And, she is there to celebrate the good. Moms are a daughters best friend. True story.
Tiffany says
I have learned from my mom that I am my children’s advocate. It gave me the strength I needed to be their voice when my twins were in the NICU, and I forever am grateful for that…of course along with unconditional love and many other important things :). Love your swimsuit!
Britt Emmons Ricardo says
I loved your words about your amazing mother. I feel the same adoration, respect and love for mine as well. Rather than what she taught me, it feels like what hasnt she taught me? Her words and love from my youth and today come through me in my parenting and my complete devotion to my son. Her patience, her over powering perfumed neck, her silly story voices and her warm, strong arms are the things I love the most. I hope I can be half the mother she was to me and my brother and sister.
Melissa says
Can your family adopt me? Seriously, I’d love to have the same kind of relationship that you do with your mother and I’m working hard to make sure my daughter has plenty fun, sweet, comforting memories from her childhood to look back on when she is older. if you want to hare your mama’s pie recipe I wouldn’t mind ;). And the bathing suit? So good. Last time I bought a bathing suit I was super pregnant, and it came down to my knees..lol
Alissa says
My mama has taught me to be kind to everyone, honest, to follow your dreams whatever they may be, and to never stop dreaming.
Shutterbug Mama says
my mom taught me everything I know!the most important thing though was to be me. She is the best mom anyone could ask for, she’s my best friend and the very best grandma my kids could ask for!!
sarah says
Mamas are the best….I appreciate mine so much more now that I’m a mom. I have 4 kids & I don’t know what I’d do w/o my mom!!
She’s taught me:
*sit on the floor & PLAY w/ your kids
*make dinner while you dance
*even though we love our kids with all our heart…we can complain once in awhile when overwhelmed!
Owlhaven says
Kelle, I so loved this post. You see, I am a brand new grandma to beautiful little Zechariah born one short week ago. Today I spent a couple hours at my daughter’s house, helping with laundry, doing dishes, making beds, and cuddling that sweet little grandson. Such a privilege for the first time to be on the older side of the mama/daughter dance, enjoying a whole new stage, while also being thankful I still have a 7 year old at home and my own momma healthy and close by, because that means I also still have a good long time to be sandwiched in the middle stage. Thanks for sharing your day…
Mary, momma to 10, blessed daughter of a very good mother, and grandma to one who is a week old and another who is due in May
Niki says
What I learned from my Mom?….to find time to play everyday and that anything can be adventure if you let it.
Lola says
I learned to smile a lot and laugh even more. Will love to wear a bathing suit.
Michelle says
My mom taught me that I was loved… she taught me how to live simply and creatively and fully. :o) I love her.
Thanks for writing and sharing — life has been busy and I haven’t commented, but I always look forward to reading your posts. :o)
Carly says
Favorite tip from my mama: when company is coming, you can never have too much food!
jantoniello says
From my Mama, I learned how to make Christmas RIGHT ! From the lights on the tree to the last bite of dessert, nobody made Christmas like my Mom. My 2 sons are now 31 & 35 and they DO Christmas right too, although they think it started with me because they never had the honor of knowing their Grandma, she died of lung cancer when my oldest was only 2. But they look forward to Christmas every year and can really appreciate and decorate a Christmas tree. I love them so much, I know my Mom is watching !
Jannice says
My mom has taught me how to love, to never give up and always look ahead. She has told me you can never say I love you enough and to hold my babies as long as I can – they grow too fast! My mama is my best friend. I can only hope I’m doing half the job that she did!
I’ll take a slice of that mixed berry pie! Oh! and I can’t wait to see some new pics of your IOC. Its so nice to live vicarously through your photos! Enjoy your visit with your mama!!
Jilly says
My Mom has taught me everything. She and my stepfather are moving to Florida tomorrow to enjoy retirement, and I’m still in shock at the thought of having them that far away from me.
Annastacia says
I love this post. I am not very close with my mom but something about this post just feels nice anyways. I hope my son feels this way about me and my visits. One thing my mom did teach me that has sort of defined me or at least my style and hobbies, is to love vintage things. My parents have always collected old stuff and specifically farm type stuff. I didn’t always get it but now I adore it.
P.S. I love that purple polka dot top you are wearing in the pictures, so cute!
Chelsea Earnhardt Plax says
very sadly i do not have a good relationship with my mother. however i do remember when she was happy she always cranked that music up to dance dance dance, something i do with my kids almost every day.
Danica says
Gorgeous mama you are!
As a new mum, I too am ‘finding my place’ and balancing between needing my mother and being one to little Delilah too. I appreciate my mother SO much more now that I am one myself. She taught me so very much, but especially that everything happens for a reason, never give up, and that I am beautiful, cherished and loved. She taught me to do all the things needed to be a wife and mum- how to cook, clean and sew being just a few. I dont know where i would be without her, and i hope, oneday i can be half the mother she is to Delilah
x
Danica says
Gorgeous mama you are!
As a new mum, I too am ‘finding my place’ and balancing between needing my mother and being one to little Delilah too. I appreciate my mother SO much more now that I am one myself. She taught me so very much, but especially that everything happens for a reason, never give up, and that I am beautiful, cherished and loved. She taught me to do all the things needed to be a wife and mum- how to cook, clean and sew being just a few. I dont know where i would be without her, and i hope, oneday i can be half the mother she is to Delilah
x
GettingChinky says
I learned to be have fun, try my best, and be myself with any and everything I do. I learned that it’s ok to not be perfect. I learned the real meaning of sacrifice. And I learned how to tell dirty, tactless jokes with grace and charm!
Jen says
Just this morning, my seven-year-old called my Grandmommy (my favorite person in the whole wide world) to interview her for a history project we’re working on. I coached him to ask if she had time to talk, and I heard her answer: “I always have time for you.” THAT’s what I learned from my Grandmommy. The family – and especially the littles – always come first. The mama (or grandma) ALWAYS has time for her family. No matter what. If my boys grow up and remember nothing else, I hope they always remember that their mama always had time for them.
kancell24 says
My mom taught me a lot about marriage. While everyone else at school’s parents were splitting up my parents were still together.
Taylor says
my mamma taught me many valuable lessons in the short 12 years I had with her before she passed. I have to say the biggest thing she taught me was to laugh. Always find the humor in situations. Laugh at yourself. She was the true meaning of joy!
Kelly Family says
My mom taught me it’s not the what you have that matters it’s your family that matters most. Doesn’t matter how big your house is, but the memories you make with your loved ones. Something I have really learned to cherish as I grow up raising my own family.
Love your swimsuit 🙂
Ashley @ The Hillside Home says
oh geez. complicated mama relationship over here. buuuuut, she has made me think A LOT about the legacy i want to leave for my babies. i want to be present, attentive, encouraging, engaged… i want to be “in it.”
Kristin says
I think about this a lot – how much I appreciate the people in my life who raised me and how much I didn’t appreciate them when I was younger. I’m not quite in the middle stage now, but I imagine that feeling of appreciation grows as you grow too.
Dana Jack says
My mom has taught me so many thing it is hard to pick! But, my MIL taught me how to iron a perfect shirt, yeah, I’m lucky 😉 Love the red suit!
Sarah McK says
My mother wasn’t a part of my life until I was an adult, and I was just one more kid in the house to my stepmom. Everything I’ve learned about how to me a mother I learned from my beloved sister (in-law, technically), including the best chicken and dumplings, and how to rouse a little girl who more often than not wakes up a grump.
Debora says
my mama has taught me to be the positive voice my family needs.
love the pies and the stories and… the swimsuit!!
xo
Sarah says
My mamma taught me to be kind to others, because everyone is going through a difficult struggle. She also taught me how to make scrambled eggs and how to order out. She also hems all my pants and made my clothes when I was little. Mammas rule!
Love is all you need says
aaah that middle place. Right in between growing wings and learning to fly. I love how magic Mommies are.
Diana says
Love this. I remember my mother pulling me aside and telling me how precious I was to her – I’ll never forget that!
Jessie says
Cutest swimsuit ever! From my mother, I learned to pray.
Hannah says
My momma has taught me to be selfless! She I amazing! I hope I am half the mom and grandma she is!
Jenny Elliott says
That anything is possible and to remain positive. I would come home from school distraught that I was to short to play basketball and she would turn it around by saying “be faster then”. And then I would become the fastest on the basketball team. She’s the most positive person I know and I still at 36 call her for a positive spin when my day has gone down hill.
P.S. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the bathing suit!!!
Hannah says
My momma has taught me to be selfless! She I amazing! I hope I am half the mom and grandma she is!
likepurlsoffastring says
Kelle, Nella is getting so big… and with a Mom like you, trust me, she’ll make a mean pie.
Love the swimsuit.
-Kylie
Laura says
My mom is a breast cancer survivor. I learned to never stop fighting! And that having a bad hair day after months with no hair is the best thing in the world!
Esther says
It’s almost impossible to pick a favorite thing I learned from my mom. And I’m still learning new things every day. Yesterday I was in the car with my sisters whom I hadn’t seen in a while and we were having a conversation. The first thing I did when we started talking was turn off the music. I used to really hate it when my mom turned off the music just because someone was saying something, but I had just done it reflexively. I’m hoping this means someday I’ll be at least half the good listener my mom is.
Vanessa says
My mom taught me to thank God for little things, like hot showers and dinner. She would also tell me at the end of a bad day that, “You never have to relive today.”
Courtney says
My mom taught me the value of patience and how to laugh at yourself. Valuable lessons all throughout life.
Melissa says
Boy I miss my mom. She’s been gone awhile now, I still find myself thinking I have to call her when something special crosses my mind.
She taught me to listen. Even to the most simplest of things. They can sometimes be the most important. That a long thread makes for a lazy seamstress! Not to yell. Be kind. And that its ok to talk to the other ladies digging in the sale bin!
Jenn Long says
my mom has taught me about faith…knowing that things will always work out in the end.
Stephanie says
My mom taught me that I can do anything. And that the most important thing in the whole world is your family.
Amanda says
My mom taught me to respect my body for what it can do more than how it looks – but to dress it to its best possible advantage anyway!
She also taught me how to swim, how to read, how to ride a bike, how to tell time, you know, all the useful stuff… 🙂
Mama C says
Definitely learned about love from my mom. That & how to talk anyone’s ear off in the most unlikely of places (including the grocery store) 😉
Erica Butterfield says
I learned to talk about my feelings so that they will move. I remember always going to my mother and throwing my emotions up all over her and she would talk me through them. It’s so funny that as an adult I will still call her and throw my emotions up all over here, but these days she will call the next day to make sure that everything is okay since we now live in different states. I’ve usually forgotten what I was so upset in the first place but it is one of those wonderful moments I share with my mom and it’s a reminder that even as a grown woman…sometimes you still need mama
Stephanie says
My mom has taught me so many things, but most importantly, to be positive. She always finds the best in any situation. She has taught me to be grateful always and to always know who I am on the inside, not the outside. She is kind and patient. she is also very resourceful. I am so blessed to have her, and to take what she has taught me and give it to my two wonderful baby girls.
Love your blog. So happy to read each post.
Lacy Hope says
My mom has taught me lots of things for sure, but lately the thing that I’ve used the most is her recipe for the perfect chocolate chip cookie. 🙂
The Goofy Goobers says
My mama an I have grown closer since I became a mother… It is alot easier to relate! Cute suit!! I have been struggling to find one that looks cute with out showing off my mommy stripes!!
Jennifer says
I, too, learned (well still learning) how to make perfect pie crusts. The secret? CRISCO.
Oh and I LOVE pies…not the best for upcoming swimsuit season 🙂
Sara says
My mommy taught me how to be a mom!! How to love and enjoy the little moments of my babies!
brooke says
i’ve learned to look on the bright side in hard times…
DanaS says
amongst the many things I learned from my momma is to always put a dash of love into anything I make. you can always taste it!
Alaina and Kyle says
My momma taught me it’s ok to let your little ones play in the mud in their underwear, run around in the snow in just a diaper and snow boots, and enjoy the simplest of things! I’m blessed to have a wonderful mother. She gave us her all and still does!
lacey horst-thomas says
she taught me to be creative, whether that be wrapping pictures on the wall with wrapping paper to look like presents or wrapping the entire wall to look like one giant present. or to try new recipes or to paint cabinets or to redecorate the living room to make you happy. she definitely taught me to use my creativity in ways I never would have thought.
Amanda says
among many other things my mom taught me to work hard and be thankful. 🙂
Rebekah says
My mother taught me how to love. I hated it in high school, she would say love on the people no one talks to, or give an extra hug a day cause you don’t know what tomorrow will bring. My mom is my rock, any best friend and my first phone call for, well, everything. I’m a mother of 4 now and I pray that some day, our children will say I taught them to love, madly, deeply and forever. I’ll be moving 14 hours away from my momma in just a few short months, it hurts some days to breathe thinking about it. But I know my mom’s love could cover the moon and back and I know she will only be a days drive away; but I’m going to miss her, I’m going to miss her hugging me so tight when things seem hard. I going to miss her smell and her reminding me how fierce of a mom I can be, because let’s face it, we all forget that when we have cleaned up that spill from that same cup 10 times a day!
The Adelman Twins says
I learned how to find balance in life- work hard and play hard! I love my Ma! (And I live 1 mile from Popina in Portland!!!)
Claire says
I learned to perceive change as a grand adventure from my bold mama. Oh how I miss her!
Emily says
I learned independence and tenacity from my momma!
reflectionsandsuch says
My mother & grandmothers have taught me to be a strong woman, and to have a pasison for books, learning, and history. As I grow older & watch my mother with my daughter, I continue to learn so much.
Olaina says
My mom taught me how to make crepes.
Tracie says
My mom taught me to love books, to never take the front thing off the shelf at the store, and that you don’t need hair to be beautiful.
PB and JS says
My Mom taught me self worth. Not to be above anyone, but to make sure your life is positive and joyful. To make correct decisions and sacrifices that will bring happiness and contentment. It something I want to teach my babies too.
Shaams says
Unconditional love. There cannot be said about it!!
Loving vintage swimwear! Choose me!!
Brammer Family says
My mom has always had something of her own. A new craft project, monthly ladies nights out for ice cream, and the diet coke that we would still manage to steal sips from. It’s a huge message, to remember yourself when you’re giving away so much. She’s a great mom; my favorite, in fact.
AlisonLeigh says
My mom taught me to persevere no matter how hard things get. And how to clean the garbage disposal, which has come in very handy.
Carissa says
My momma taught me many lessons, but the most important was something I don’t think she ever thought about teaching, just something that happened. We are SO different, and I know she often just didn’t get me – but our relationship has shown me that differences don’t matter as long as you genuinely love the other person. Love trumps it all! And for the record – these days my momma is one of my best friends (and she still doesn’t always get me)
Cheri says
I love that my mom used to say “ask and you’ll get, don’t and you won’t.” Funny… now I tell my kids the same thing- Mama’s not a mind-reader!
Jaim says
It was my mom’s birthday yesterday and I spent all day thinking about her. She has taught me to stand-up for what I believe in and to always strive to be creative.
nicolette says
Hi. I’m a new- ish reader. Found your blog during a middle of the night newborn nursing session (second [home]born, son Jasper Bear 2.8.12:: Loukas Fox 12.2.2009)
I feel like we are pals, albeit our new friendlove is one sided… I adore your disposition and am inspired and smitten by your shiny existence. I love Lainey and Nella. Okay- I love latte too 🙂
One thing (that I am endlessly grateful for) that I have learned from my mother is:: we are just people. We make mistakes and we keep loving each other. We are imperfect and we are family and we unconditionally love.
She also taught me to match (or coordinate rather) my panties with my outfit.
Yay moms!!!
Courtney says
I learned perseverance, selflessness, and th importance of valuing your children and making sure they feel valued
shell says
I learned it’s hard work make the home you really want. But it’s worth every bit of effort. And I learned how much mom’s can love. There is no word.
Katie says
I’ve learned to make home where my family is. We’ve moved many times, and our house always felt like Home! Our home was always open to friends, and now my home is that for my kids. With three boys, our house is alway filled to the brim.
Morgan says
“I look back for inspiration, I look forward with motivation.”
Beautiful words. I have been so encouraged by your words and perspective on life. I’ll be calling my mom tomorrow, just to let her know how much I love her. 🙂
K'lyssa says
I learned, more than anything else from my mom, how to be strong. She raised my two older sisters and I all on her own – working multiple jobs and doing without just to make sure we had everything we needed (and much of what we wanted). She never complained. She never asked for anything in return.
She’s my mom. And she’s the strongest woman I know.
Brittany says
My mom taught me to put aside the laundry and the chores for awhile and just enjoy the kids while they are still young. You’ll never get that time back!
The York Family says
***My Mom taught me how to live, and love life. From the basics like walking and talking to the things she continues to teach me everyday. She gives me confidence in my own adventures as a mother of two beautiful babies by reminding me that I am a strong woman…and I can do anything I put my mind to. My Mom taught me confidence, and most important she taught me how to love.
Mrs. Mazzei says
I was just thinking I need a new swimsuit! While I’ve almost lost all the “baby weight” post pregnancy, there’s still something appealing about a vintage inspired one piece this summer.
One of my favorite things I’ve learned from my mama is to always tell the truth and never lose your sense of innocence. She also has taught me to pray, especially when I am trying to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders…
Darling Family says
I learned from my mom how the closeness of our relationship means more then the cost of having your opinion voiced…. did that make any sense?
The Growing Oshika Gang says
Swimsuit shopping is the WORST. But if the outcome is a cute suit like these, it’s totally worth it!
Renee says
My mom taught me to give all that I have to my family and to love lots, and be generous with my time. My mom is the most hospitable, loving, caring, selfless person I know, I can’t imagine life without her!
Joshua and Jamie says
I learned that when a mom loves her kids they don’t know how poor they really are because it doesn’t matter.
Jen says
I learned to be honest, to work hard and never look back.
Bret&Amberly says
I learned how to be a “fun girl”! My mom when I was 13 wanted to go on a big trip with me for school, and insisted that she was still fun. This has stayed with me, and reminds me to always be fun, even if it means chasing the ice cream man down the street to be the “fun mom”.
The Stevens Family says
My mom has taught me so many things, it’s hard to narrow it down to one. If I had too… How to love my family. No matter what, when, who…love.
Steve and Mar says
I live on the opposite end of the country from my mom and miss her dearly. She has taught me that even though I may not have a house of my own, I will always have a home. And that I can always come back to that home.
I love your blog. It always puts a smile on my face, even on the gloomiest of days. Thank you!
amy/jojo says
My mom taught me so much that it’s almost hard to condense it to fit this post. She taught me that being the quiet one in the room is ok, that it doesn’t mean your not fun but that your absorbing all the good things happening in your own way. She taught me how to love unconditionally, how to listen, how to be patient. She is quiet and not overly emotional but I know how loved I am and that’s what I want my babies to know too.
Sherry F says
Favorite thing from my amazing mom: Nothing is impossible because you’re a girl.
Favorite thing from my wonderful mother-in-law who passed away last March: Love God with all your heart. Oh ya, and everyone needs to be fed. 🙂
Crazy May Days says
Oh, almost-to-the-beach-warm-sunshine-time. Perfect for a new swimsuit.
My mom taught me that open windows and an abundance of sunshine can cure just about any inner rain cloud.
I AM A DREAMER says
I love this post! From my mama I have learned to love myself and to be comfortable in my own shoes. I have learned that it is okay to make mistakes and it is okay to have bad days but that there will always be good days ahead.
Sonya S says
Goodness, just ONE?? 🙂 I learned lots from my sweet mama, but if I have to pick one….my favorite is to hug and say I love you immediately upon greeting a loved family member or friend! It’s warm like the coziest blanket and breaks any “ice” that might be there. By the way, those swimsuits are the kinds I’ve been looking for!
Ali says
There is nothing better then spending the day with your mama and your babies. Nothing makes my heart happier!
JessicaDaughtrey says
Oh how i miss my mom! i wish she was here to watch my son grow up!
p.s love the picture of nella typing 🙂
Jackie says
The biggest lesson I remember holding onto from my mom from childhood is he always told me if I could dream it I could achieve it. As a mom of three now I know it’s not always the season to pursue every dream, but I also know you won’t pursue a goal if you don’t dream about it first.
Jackie says
Love Lainey’s salt waters. TOO cute!
Jackie says
The biggest lesson I remember holding onto from my mom from childhood is he always told me if I could dream it I could achieve it. As a mom of three now I know it’s not always the season to pursue every dream, but I also know you won’t pursue a goal if you don’t dream about it first.
beautiful imperfections says
Kelle,
First off, those bathing suits are absolutely adorable! I have been a lifeguard for the past 4 summers and am determined to get myself a non-work suit this summer. Secondly, my Momma and I have had some extreme lows in the past couple of years. But, there’s something about moving away to college that is special. There’s something magical about a daughter becoming independent and fleeing miles away from home to start a new life on her own at college. The first week I called my mom crying because I had my worst ever meltdown to that extent. All of that babbling being said, my Momma has taught me that it is perfectly okay to be human and to make mistakes. Sometimes you have to take care of yourself first, and sometimes your actions don’t always depict your intentions. I know my Momma loves me and she’s taught me that that’s the main thing that matters.
Happy Thursday! 🙂
Caroline
Debbie D. says
One time when I was up visiting my mom in Jersey from Florida, we were going out for the afternoon. She wrote a brief note to put on the coffee table… “there’s soup on the stove and pie in the fridge.” I asked her “who was the note for, is someone coming by?” Her answer, “I don’t know, but if they stop by, they can eat.”
(Oh yeah, she also left the front door unlocked!)
What I learned from her… a giving nature!
Anne Cunningham says
i just loved this. i’ve been doing a lot of looking back while still moving forward as i approach my 50th birthday in 5 days, and it seems like just yesterday i was making the same observations, “oh what will it be like when…”
was going through a box of photos and such today, just marveling at all that can, and will happen, and what it will feel like, and how as i was sitting there today, i’m still able to wonder, “oh, what will it be like when…”
and as usual, lovely to come here and see your concise and beautiful rendition of a theme that is quite likely running through our own heads and hearts–just a whole lot of smiles and warmth and fun reading tonight, timely too with all the pie on 3/14.
that being said, my “mother love” was my grandmother, and she taught me all of what i said above, how to hold the joy, let it keep you, and let it keep you wondering what was to come next–because there was going to be hard stuff too, and the difficult stuff you didn’t dwell of, you were mindful of it, informed, but the JOY is what you reached for.
thanks, as always, for the smiles!
rachel says
Ohhh, I learned not to wait until your kids are all grown to chase your own dreams. To not wait forever to go back to school, to switch careers, to start being who you really want to be. There’s no better time than now.
Jamie Willow says
I’ve learned so many things from my mom, including how to make life like a party…and how to enjoy your circumstances no matter what.
silverluvingcup says
That it’s ok to stay in bed all day on Saturday watching tv after putting in a hard week of working 🙂
Adri Hunt says
I just got back from visiting my Mom and love that middle place too! And I love vintage swimwear!!!
Angella says
I’ve learned to be encouraging and supportive, even when they do things I don’t particularly agree with.
Vivi DiLopes Adams says
My mom made me conscious of the reality of God. The God she taught me to seek after, trust and obey.
Susie Q says
My mom……..what a saint! Raised 8 kids, 6 boys-2 girls, and still has all of her marbles! And she still says she’d do it all over again! She taught me to be thankful for what you have and to count your blessings every day.
Sandryte says
What a good, projecting question… I always underestimated my mother. But she has a big sensitive heart – and no matter how much I hate my own sensitiviness, I should really be thankful her for this.
believe says
I learned from my mom to work hard and enjoy life.
Michelle@gigglegumgirls says
Oh, yeah! I just commented on one of your pins. I’ve been eyeing this suit for a while now.
From my single Mama I learned…
independence, ground beef and macaroni can feed a lot of mouths, pre loved is often times better than anything you could ever find new, and to appreciate the small things.
Sarah says
I learned the importance of accountability and reliability from my mom. I need a new swim suit desperately, and I can’t afford a new one. I have lost over 50 lbs since last year and I am afraid/excited to put on a new suit. These suits would be great fitting for the things that I still don’t feel so confident about.
Boo says
From my mom, i learned to listen really well, ask interesting questions and sew a button. I learned that being a girl shouldn’t stop you from doing anything you want to do and that avocados and asparagus are delicious foods.
Peggy Lyu says
My Mama taught me to always have a good beheavior (did I write it in the right way?), which in so important in life..and to have faith I what I am able to do, which is so important too to reach what you want in life..My Grandma taught me the importance to be together, that even a simple dish of pasta can keep people together.
P.S.I love Nella’s smile and the photos of her and Laney playing together.they’re so lucky to have each other..
Liane says
This was beautiful! I love the photo of Nella with her Laptop!
My Mum taught me to learn from her mistakes.. xxx
Elizabeth says
Don’t know if my comment came through…sorry if I did it twice!
Oh I learned so much from my mama…she was such a good mama. She taught me how to love without reservation, how to be a good hostess and make everyone feel at home, she taught me how to be interested without being nosy, how to love cooking and crafting, she taught me how to be a good friend, but most of all she taught me what it feels like to be loved really really well.
xoxo Elizabeth
Nadja says
My mom taught me how to make best sauces ever… and best oven baked potatoes.
Also, to try and not to worry about things that do not really matter because they have a way of handling themselves.
Nadja
Aimee says
I loved this post and could relate to it in so many ways. I am so thankful that my mom (despite living far away) comes to visit often and loves my babies as much as I do. What a blessing that is! My mom has taught me so many things but one practical thing that I keep coming back to is her resourcefulness. She can make ends meet, pull off a recipe by improvising with what you have on hand, put left over material to use, etc. She also taught me to sew…a skill that I am so thankful to have and most of all, she reminds me to take car of myself when my tendency as a mom is to push aside what my body needs to be healthy and strong (rest, healthy food, showers, exercise, etc.) in order to meet the needs of my family. I love her so much!
Sonja says
Ohh, this is a good thing to think about.
I learned from my mom “first cry, then pray”, to be a friend, and to remember the good things even when your world is caving in around you.
There is an ocean (literally) between my mom and myself and we miss each other a lot. Nonetheless, she has managed to be the grandma to my kids that I want to be to my grandchildren some day.
She is the strongest woman I know. She is wonderful.
Tracey Wilkinson says
Hi, I just wanted to say that I have been following your great blog for a while now and I love looking through your photos and taking ideas from your posts. I have two small boys and reading your blog always reminds me how enjoyable it is to just be with your children and really enjoy every moment with them even when it seems like the days are getting away too fast, to stop and observe and try to understand them and their needs!!I wanted to say Congrats for your book and on doing such a fantastic and positive job raising your two beautiful girls and for putting it all out there for us to share! you really are blessed and so are they!
Tracey x
francesca says
I’ve learned what the hard work is, and how to do it with a smile, always.
princess says
Beautiful moments and pictures!!
Emily says
First, your swimsuit is so cute! I love the shameless line about butt hugging, I mean not everyone could post that without turning red but its so true. We want our butts properly hugged in our clothing.
My mother. What did she not teach me? Above all, I think my mother taught me compassion. My mom serves the kind of people that most others avoid. The kinda scary ones, the annoying ones, the grumpy ones, and the unwilling to be served ones. but more then that, she does it lovingly and quietly. She’s shown me the best reward is feeling good afterwards, not public accolades. Beyond the compassion she shows others, she tirelessly loves our family. If you saw the heartache that she’s been caused by us five children in our own ways, it would be a wonder that she did less then curse us. But instead she shows unceasing love. She’s an astounding woman. I love her greatly.
Cecilius blogg says
My mum taught me to get an eduction before I got my children, so I always can take care of them no matter what happens. She taught me to stay strong and think positive. She had always time even if we were four children 🙂
Team Lando says
Kelle, this post is beautiful – what a gift to your mama!
My mom taught (and teaches) me to laugh. She’s a riot.
And I wonder about that middle place for Ellie, too. I sort of assume she won’t have kids, that she’ll live with friends or a husband, maybe in a group home, and that she’ll be the best aunt ever… once we have a few more kids, and they have kids!
Kristin says
It sounds silly but my Mum taught me how to be unconditionally generous as a Mum. I have seen what my friend’s Mums do for them and whilst they are lovely people I know (and I have been told by them) that my Mum is very special. Not only will she bend over backwards to help and support us but I know that if my friends were in need she would do it for them too, without blinking and with unconditional love because that’s what she thinks Mums do. I love that she has done this for me but what I REALLY love is that she has taught me to do this for my children… this is my norm and I will be forever grateful for it.
Jamie Severt says
My mom taught me how to have fun and how…at any age…you can reinvent you life. Love this post and your suit!!
Goonie Mom Christie says
To believe that the universe is unfolding as it should.
Love my Mom.
Barb says
My mom taught me what a great man my father was.
I remember one time I asked my mother, “Why does Daddy work so much”? She looked at me and said, “Honey, everyone’s Daddy works a lot”. I didn’t realize it then, but that was one of the biggest lessons I learned from my Dad – the value of hard work. He woke up everyday, put on his shoes, and went to work to provide for our family. I could count on one hand how times my dad was sick. Even if he didn’t feel good, he would get up and go to work. He truly believed that if you worked hard, treated people right, and with a little luck from God, you could have a good Life. And it took a child’s simple question to her mom to teach me how great he was and how much she admired him.
LeShayne says
My mom taught me to celebrate everything, to decorate on the cheap, to plan ahead but always be prepared to change your plans, to never return a dish empty, that God is in control even when I feel completely lost, and that above all to always try my best! So thankful for her.
Enjoy your visit!!
Rose says
My mum taught me to bake that I’m greatful off for sure. She taught me how to stay safe me too. She taught me how to run a household too … there are other things for sure bu hearing what you say about your mama being there for you now, doing the things she does made me a bit sad because my mum hasn’t held it together since I was a teenager and my siblings were smaller – she’s not much good for anything right now, I miss the feeling of having a mama and my kids having a proper grandma but all you other mama’s whose blogs I read offer plenty of inspiration for me to march forward on my journey myself. x X
Shell says
I learned perseverance from my Momma, never give up! Great post and lovely pics! 🙂
puravida says
momma knows best. =) my mom is so amazing, love her to death
matt and michelle ray says
Love that suit!!!! That would make my summer!
Jessica says
Sadly, I learned everything I wanted to be to my kids that my mom wasn’t. If my boys wanna play sports, than they will play sports & I will be cheering in the crowds. I will hug them, I will tell them how much I love them over and over – EVERYday. I will build their self-confidence instead of tearing it down like mine did. And I will cherish each and every breath as if it could be their last. Because that’s what good mamas do. And while I will never be perfect and I’ll make mistakes ain’t nobody gonna ever question the love I have for my boys, including them.
Annie says
For me, not my mom, but my grandma… who taught me that a hug and a hot cocoa can fix almost anything.
The Whirling Dirvish says
My mom taught me that I am stronger today than the before and that I am the culmination of the sorrows, joys, struggles and triumphs of each and every woman before me. That having my daughters made me stronger and that it’s my job to remind them of the same things she taught me. Oh, and that any day can be made better by new shoes 🙂
Naomi Best says
when i was 9, we moved from Scotland (where all the family was) to Canada. My mum showed me how important it is to have ‘family’ wherever you live even if your ‘real’ family is so far away!!
christa says
Love the red suit!!
Marisa says
My (wonderful) mom taught me that having a love of cooking and feeding others will bring you endless joy. She is so right. 🙂
Betsy says
My mom is actually my step-mom, but she taught me to be spontaneous, to dance on beds, skip through the halls and sing when the urge takes me.
Sheebies says
My Mum lead by example. She always put the family first, I can’t remember when there wasn’t any home cooking in a day, church clothes always ironed. I remember watching her blowdry her hair in the mornings, got up to us kids at night when we couldn’t sleep or felt sick. Even though I work part-time, I hope I can show half as much love and care to my kids as we were loved and cared for.
Love the bathing suit and lippy!!!
Scoops says
My Mom taught me to try to never, ever judge anyone and to always remember that everyone is fighting their own battle…so true~
vermonter says
Kelle, The photo of Nella on her little keyboard is just Priceless, I couldn’t help but notice the placement of her fingers on the keys. HA.
My Mom taught me to be true to myself and to treat others as I wanted to be treated. She has the biggest heart and always put her faamily first. I feel that I have always put my children first as she tsught me to do.
kcampbell says
My Mom taught me how to be strong when things get rough and to appreciate everything that I have because there are always people who are worse off than you. She has also given me the skills to be a good Mom to my daughter.
frksillyh says
The favorite thing that I learned from my momma, was to bake. She is a killer when it comes to baking, and she learned me a few tricks, which make me happy. She’s also learning me how to sew at this very moment, which she is also very good at!!
As usual I love your blog and find it very inspiring, you are totally amazing!
j & shea says
now that i have one little one & another on the way, i’m learning how in addition to making my childhood so special in every way, my mom also taught me how to make it special now for my little ones too. and what a precious gift it is that she gave me in that!
sarah says
Love the swimsuit, I think I NEED one! 🙂
Julie says
I learned the fun of bargain hunting and the value of friendship – friends are hard work as a grown up, but so worth it!
Enchanted Momma says
I spent last week on Marco Island. We visited your Isles of Capri fish house. I see why you love it so. It was hard to leave that perfect Florida weather to return to Michigan, but I had two girls my heart was aching for waiting at home.
My mom taught me the chores will always wait, get outside and enjoy the day!
joyfullyyours says
I resisted being anything like my mom for so long…but now, I’m so glad that I have many of her qualities. I have learned the art of making my home welcoming for guests. To let them know that there is nothing I would rather be doing in that moment than to be taking care of them.
I learned to laugh – to be totally joyfull when something makes me feel that way.
I learned to share my creative ablilites. I love nothing more than to give a gift I created myself to someone who will love it!
I learned that it’s okay to wear your heart on your sleeve, because it’s only this way that you can be true to your ownself.
delaneysmommy128 says
I just love your posts! Especially this one. <3
My mom teaches us constantly how to love and be strong women.
Enjoy your visit!!
Jenni says
I love the pictures of lainey holding her dollys! you have taught her so well!
Ryan says
There are some tears of joy on my lashes … I love this post! My mom is so special to me and I cherish every moment I have with her. As I became a mom myself this past year, beside my husband, my mom has been the single most supportive and important person in this new adventure and I am so happy she is sharing in the excitement! She has taught me so much it is difficult to pick just one but here goes … my mom taught me to just be there, no matter how busy the schedule, showing so much love through simple actions. My wish is to be as wonderful a mom as mine has been for me (and my sisters!). Have a wonderful day!
PS Loving the spring vibes … “Hello spring – I am so happy you are on your way back!!”
Kari says
My Mama taught me to not let anyone else determine my own happiness!
Summit of Glory says
Loved this post – pad that Nella w love and send her off – assume competenance and she will soar!
I learned generosity from my mother.
xoxo
Tina S says
My mom taught me all about perserverance. Man, how I love her for that.
dldhome says
Oh wow, i’ve learned SO much from my mom, don’t know where to start. I guess most importantly, that home is the priority and morals matter.
J Scheppl says
My mom always made birthdays special. They may not have included a big party, but they were always so special. I think when I was little, I took that for granted, but now that I have children, I want to make sure that they have the best birthdays!
cathy says
I learned to ALWAYS say,” I love you” , everyday to my children & when they say it back, I say, ” I love you MORE”.
enjoy the bejesus out of your visit with your mom
xoxo
cathy
Bobette says
I am new to your blog and LOVE LOVE LOVE it! I am one of ten kids and my mom taught me to always take time for each child. To love them and cherish them for who they are. Having four kids of my own, all uniquely different, this is a amazing thing to be able to do. Not sure how my mom did it having ten but she always took the time to make sure each of us were the center of her heart, the only one important, the one most loved.
Pies look amazing and your girls are absolutely darling!
Enjoy your time with your mom. Living far away from mine now I know I adore the time she comes to spend with us!
Jennifer says
My momma taught me to always laugh and enjoy everyday life. She is my best friend, I couldn’t ask for someone more fun to share my life with – and she’s an amazing baba (gramma) !!
Kindergarten Team says
Where do I even begin to start. My mother has taught me to never give up on your dreams, to love people, to work like she did on the farm, learn how to scrapbook, to be a good daughter, wife, and mother. She is an amazing Nana to my children!
Nis says
My mommabelle taught me to give thanks for everything I have – even when it seems like there is little to be thankful for, to remember that I am one lucky girl.
Coffeemomma says
Whenever something upsetting or hurtful happened, especially at school, my mom used to say “just let it roll off your back”….as in, don’t WORRY about it, let it go. I’m a chronic worrier, so I hear my mom’s words in my head all the time.
🙂 Kym
Kristy says
Mama taught me to cook and bake and love my littles. She also taught me how to be a good daughter, as I watched her care for her mom as Grandma grew to need help as she aged.
Hanna says
I have learned from my mama to always find the positive side of things, to try and fight hard for your dreams and to always have an honest smile and a transparent heart.
Aarika says
I can’t wait to visit home this summer and see my own momma!
My mom taught me to be aware of other peoples needs and to step up and serve them. When I was young she was always making a dinner, homemade, rolls or some fancy schmancy dessert to take to someone. Whether it was a new baby, recovery from illness, or heartbreak she was always someone that responded with,”How can I help?”
I hope my own daughter learns the same thing from me…
So glad you get to spend time with your mom. 🙂
Bonnie says
My favorite thing that my mom taught me was how to sew. I love making things to pass on to my daughter. This year I decided to make new Christmas stockings and Im so excited to see the finished product.
Becky Stephens says
My mom taught me how to let loose and enjoy life. She’s a champion for self-confidence and free spirits. It’s okay to be different.
Erin says
I learned how to be a good wife. My father died of cancer and watching her care for him taught me how to be a better wife. He would move from his chair (where he sat all day) to the loveseat just before she came home from work. All my siblings were always there and hanging out. My dad would go to bed very early (5:30) and she would go with him b/c he wanted her to. She said…”I have the rest of my life to be with you all. I”m going to be with him now.” Before this happened, I would never have been able to do the same thing in that situation. Now…I will!
Every day's an adventure says
My mom taught me that parents are parents first, not our friends, and that we may not always like the decisions that they make for us or the rules they set but you will understand why one day… that day has come, I SO get it now. 🙂
PS. You look uhhhmazing in red!!
Just the Two of US says
You look adorable in the pic with Nella. I learned from my mom many things I never believed until I became a mama myself, I learned you wear your heart outside of your sleeve, I’ve learned that time is the essence, and giving your children time is the best thing in the world, because they will always remember the time you spent with them.. especially making pies… You rock the cabash, that is all…carry on=)
ErinD says
Kelle your blog inspires me and brings light into my life when I am having a difficult time. Thank you so much for your positive outlook. I really need a new bathing suit so I am really hoping to win, my husband just left me which means a very quick weight loss for me! I am hoping my mom’s best advice yet is still to come as she raised my sisters and I alone, as I will be my daughter. Sometimes we don’t get to choose out path, but we do get to choose how we walk it.
Laura says
My mom taught me to always remember what’s important in life, to make decisions that make me happy and put my son first no matter what. Love life, love each other and love god!
molly says
First of all, I love Lainey’s romper! Where did you find that bit of adorableness?
Second, my mama taught me to push through and work hard, even when things are really tough and you don’t really want to. It’s easy to discount that lesson as not warm and cozy, but it got me through medical school and residency with children and intact sanity.
Cassie says
My favorite thing learned is from my Grandmother. I find it interesting that the things that you do with your family shape your relationship to certain things in life. For example, I lived with my grandmother for a good chunk of my life. She and my Papaw were mean cooks, so all of my most happy memories involve a gathering with food. Even to this day I take my kids and we go to Grandma Boo-boo’s house every Sunday after church for an amazing homemade lunch. She taught me the value of fellowship. This is the thing that I treasure more than anything else, because it makes the family get together to share fun stories and empty our thoughts in preparation for another week; only to do it all over again the next Sunday. Food, family, and love.
Fresh Mommy says
Beautiful!
My mama taught me that there’s always something to learn from life, every day. She taught me how to make simple moments special, like using candles, goblets and cloth napkins for a simple dinner, and how to love my kids something fierce. Now it’s my turn for my two little loves.
🙂
~Tabitha Blue
Shannon says
My mother taught me how to make homemade cornbread dressing that must be made at every Thanksgiving. She also made the perfect thin pancakes…mmm! I so wish my kids had known her!
Party of Ten says
This was difficult. I learned to be nice, never give up, and to be a hard worker.
Jamie says
I learned that even cancer has a positive side. That if your attitude is good, you can get through anything.
Nicole says
My favorites of what I’ve learned from my mom are how to put God first in everything I do and she’s taught me my way around a sewing machine and the kitchen!
The Macons says
Lord know all mama’s love having their mama around! I hope I win this suit! I entered last year (and didnt win) and ended up buying the yellow one!
Jen M. says
How wonderful to enjoy this time with your mom!
The best thing my mom ever taught me is to look for the good in people.
Suzie says
I learned to always be available. My mom left work one day when I was struggling with post-partum after my first child and drove 2 hours to help me. She is amazing.
Momma Bee says
This post touches my heart…my Mama passed 2 years ago, and every day I think to myself “How did my mom do this? What would she teach me?”
My mom taught me to LIVE. To smile at everyone, to let the kids get dirty, and to get dirty myself 🙂 She taught me to love with more than my heart
Rebecca and Alberto Balderas says
My mom taught me to dream big. Anytime I have a idea, as crazy as it may sound, she always encourages me to go for it. She is so supportive of my dreams and goals. I really admire her for that.
I miss her desperately and hope to see her soon.
Love your blog!
hollycombs says
I learned that good conversation is more important than clean dishes. And good adventures are worth the risk.
Kristen says
This blog entry brought me to my knees. For reasons that are impossibly complicated beyond all reason, I’m not able to share these simple joys with my mother (a.k.a. on once-upon-a-time best friend.)
Oh how I long to be the ‘in-between’ observer – watching my mother teach my children how to make pies or plant flowers; how I long to hear the sound of her voice reading to her grandchildren – something I’ll never hear again thanks to the evil stroke that stole it away from her.
But I remember – and I do everything I can to bring the memories and traditions of my childhood alive for my three loves. This entry of yours reminded me that I need to teach my kids the art of pie crusts – down to the way my mother pinched the crusts together when she made her famous pies – and to tell them the story of how she could whip out an amazing pie no matter where we were (including the family RV we vacationed in back in the day – where she used a wine bottle to roll the crust for a freshly-picked blueberry pie.)
Thank you for this – for stirring the memory – I see some pie making in our near future.
Kathryn says
My favorite thing I’ve learned from my Mom is to make the most of every day, pack in as many fun activities as possible. Because you’ll never regret a sweet experience only not jumping on the chance to make one. Thanks for the chance to win – I’ve always wanted one of their swimsuits!
Rachael says
My mom taught me how to love unconditionally and deeply. Her favorite catchphrase (and we still tease her about it till this day) is that she “love’s love”. And she does.
I loved this post. I am in that place too. The Middle. So interesting to be a mommy and still need your mommy!
Thanks for your words!
CraftyValerie says
My mom taught me it is okay to fail and to learn from your mistakes. She has also taught be patience and to love unconditionally 🙂
Kelly B says
One of my favorite things I learned from my mom is to take every opportunity to tell people you love them. I grew up in a very affectionate house and never really appreciated it until I had my own kids. I steal hugs and kisses as often as possible. And do the same with their daddy. Cause they need to learn it’s OK to show people how much you love them – and to show them often. Cause we all love to feel loved.
P.S. You’re absolutely right – sister has mad typing skills.
JCF says
My mom taught me how to read and to love books. She bought me good books, and because of that I have a major book-buying weakness, especially when it comes to my kids. “I live this book. Can we buy it, Mama?” I can’t say no.
doanek says
I loved this post. My mom just came to visit while my husband was away for a medical rotation. I hated to see her go. She has taught me so much but most importantly she has shared her faith with me. It is the most important thing in my life and was planted by my sweet momma!
Laura J. says
My mom taught me that ordinary can be extraordinary. She would add little details to our dinners or school lunches that would make them shine! I try to do the same with my babies now. As I grow as a mom, I appreciate all the things she did for us more and more. I am so blessed to have her, and a great mother-in-law, who encourage me in so many ways to be a great mom!
Ali's Mom says
My mom is extraordinary and my MIL totally rocks! I am blessed to have such great examples of how to behave and how to mother. And I dare say I’ve taught them a thing or two over the years as well. Enjoy your time with your mom (and how cool is it that she found George?!)Can’t wait to see the Isles of Capri again – it’s been awhile.
Sharon H says
My mom taught me what unconditional love looks like.
Jenn says
I have learned that no one is perfect and you can’t do it all….but that it is OK as long as you try.
Anke says
My mom taught me to never give up. Life may not always be smooth sailing, but it all happens for a reason. Life is what you make of it!!
Elaine says
Learned from my mama to humm passionately in the kitchen, for it makes for better tasting food and always scrunch your herbs and green veggies…making sure to hear the “crunch in them”…assuring perfection! 😉
michellemybelle says
my favorite thing i learned from my mom: choose your battles. advice that has served me well.
i love your new swimsuit!!!
Katelyn says
My mom was single and worked for a portion of my childhood, and boy could she do a balancing act. She made the times we had together count. Even the 10 minute drive to daycare at 6am with singing in the car. Chocolate milk and a pink doughnut was a special Friday treat. I work part-time now, and when I’m losing energy with a nap time no where in sight, I remember her making our time together count, and it inspires me to do the same for my baby girl.
Sam {fitnessfoodandfaith.blogspot.com} says
how to listen. how to be a helper. how to make a mean batch of brownies and perfectly pour a glass of red wine. she is the most beautiful and wonderful woman i know!
TEAM LINDSAY says
My mom has taught me MANY things, but the one that sticks out now, as I’m raising my own son and daughter, is to be supportive and encouraging no matter what. Even if the task your child tells you they are about to undertake is risky or silly or likely to end in frustration, you just have to let them try. And cheer them on while they try. I know I have my mom to thank for my independence and confidence!
Rhonda says
Nothing quite like having a Momma around. Enjoy your time! You really look like your mother…I havent noticed it before…But I think you are morphing into her 🙂
Lucky you!!
Love the suit….I have 2 suits from Popina and LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!!
To win another would make my day!!
Enjoy the pies…I can smell them from here!!
xo
Holly Rehmann says
My momma taught me how to organize a kitchen, print perfectly, stay faithful to a journal, throw a party, and love my family. There’s no one greater in my eyes.
~Holly
Betsy says
My mom taught me to leave a place better for me having been there. And the famous (famous to me and my siblings) “don’t put it down, put it away.” I love her.
bramble says
To be grateful. Because at any moment everything you have can be turned upside down. So just to be happy with what is now – and not worry about what may happen tomorrow. My Father developed early onset Parkinsons Disease and my Mother has since aged 42 been his carer – for 18 yrs now. Her life ended in a way, so regardless of my “problems” I am grateful everyday that my husband is healthy and my children are thriving.
Sadie says
I learned to love with my whole heart. I love my momma and she loves me! I can’t wait to continue the circle with my little ones.
ashley says
i learn and learned from my mom so many things. patience. indenpendence. love. she’s an amazing lady and i am blessed to watch her with my two girls regularly.
trinity says
My mother taught me how to love, no matter what!
Lindsay says
I learned from my Mom the importance of being outdoors with my boys, and also the importance of deep breathing…:-)
Ani says
What a lovely post! Those pies sure do look delicious. My mom taught me the value of patience. I’m still working on being a patient person. I’ll be in desperate need of a new swimsuit this summer after having a baby in May… something super cute that will hide lumps and bumps!
The Morris Family says
One of my favorite things I learned from my mama is to love deeply, no matter the distance between. To take the time to always show you care and are thoughtful about those you love in any way that you can. Of course email and the internet make that easier these days, but back in the day it was a card or a photograph sent in the mail. Heck we even mailed recorded cassettes to friends and family with messages of our love and thoughts. I love that my mother instilled that sense to always stay connected in me and I see it in my kids too.
Jenna says
I love this post!! I also love being a mom and still needing my mom. What an awesome thing! My mom has taught me to talk to my son until I am out of breath. To help him to understand what’s going on around him…just keep talking is what she always tells me. She also is the best care giver I know, I hope to learn even more from her over the years to come!
Casey and Karen says
My mom taught me helping others is the way to pure happiness. Now as an adult, I can understand and agree. I have to teach my girls the same lesson.
Jessica says
My Mom taught me to not let people treat me badly and how to let go when they do.
Just me. says
I learned strength from my mom. Even though my parents have been together for like 35 years, my mom doesnt need my dad for anything. She taught her 3 girls to love fiercly, and do everything as well as you possibly can, because YOU can do anything you want.
BixiandGoxi says
I just returned from my grandmother’s funeral, when I read your post. I cried so hard readind it! I learned a lot by my grandmother: Knitting, crocheting, sewing and cooking “with gusto”. She always had an open house for friends and family and she always told me to do the same: “The laundry will be there tomorrow, so enjoy life, celebrate, eat, laugh and don’t mind your messy house!”
ZAMA says
My mom tought me how to love, to give to my kids the best of me, to laugh and to sing when things are bad…. My mom is the best mom. And grandmom i know!
Katie Rae says
Moms are amazing people! I’ve been lucky enough to be a mom for a little over 2 months and stop and think of my mom’s love for us when I’m loving on my son. To think she felt that way about us and I never could have imagined before! Great post!
Love the suit! I’m going to check out the site right now! Gotta fit these new momma curves! 🙂
Suganya says
I’m due with our first baby in 10 weeks and there are days when I realize how much my mom did for us every single day. She got up at 5 in the morning to make us breakfast, pack our lunches, worked all day and had a hot meal waiting when we got home after school. Truly amazing!
Julie P. says
My momma taught me to have self confidence and to be self sufficient. Somedays I am not real sure HOW she did that, it was almost sneaky. Now, as I am in the middle, I am trying to do the same for my kiddos.
The Audie's says
I love that suit/hat/sunglasses!
I’ve learned patience from my mom as well how to treat others. Such a kind woman, I wish I could be more like her some days!
Lia Dee says
Love this post because I can totally relate to spending time with my mama, and wondering how she will be as a grandmother! 🙂
Love the suit—can’t decide between a bikini or a sexy one piece this year! Decisions, decisions! 🙂
Amy says
Love love love this post – my mama lives pretty far from me so we only see each other maybe twice a year…but that time we do spend together is so special…especially now that I have a one year old daughter. She has taught me everything…how to really enjoy life! Oh and that a mid-afternoon pedicure can be just what the doctor ordered!
Leslie Ruth Petree says
My Marmee taught me to be brave, to breathe deeply and think before I speak, to be unabashedly southern, and that I *can* do hard things.
mrsoz says
My mother taught me empathy. I can’t think of a single time she’s judged another person (at least, not in front of me!!). She taught me to always put myself in another person’s shoes. Everyone has struggles. While I don’t feel I do quite as well as my mother (I do sometimes catch myself judging others’ decisions), I strive to teach my daughter the same lessons my mother has taught me.
Mari Bryant- Marks says
My mom taught me how to nurture, make the tiniest details in life exciting, make the best lasagna and love my husband every day.
House of three names with one heart. says
For some reason, infant care is still so scary for me. I just had my second son two months ago, the first was 10 years ago! It truely is starting over. I think the most important thing I have learned from my “mentors” is; everything works itself out. Stay positive and never give up.
Alexis says
I learned to have a good work ethic, to be honest, and to always have tact. Oh, and my mom taught me how to make a delicious chicken parmesean.
Jill says
You and Nella look so pretty in purple! My mom has taught me to be calm and honest. She’s 65 and fabulous and would like my life to emmulate hers.
Kimberly and Nathan says
I learned from my mom to cultivate my talents so I can teach my children someday too. She also taught me that it is important to celebrate.
Ps. Love the lipstick color.
Leah says
My mom taught me — by example — that choosing both work and family is possible.
Brianna says
My mom taught me the importance of generosity. She’s a wonderful woman.
And I LOVE your suit.
Bri
Samantha says
First of all, LOVE your purple top and those gorgeous turquoise earrings in the picture with Nellabean!
And things I learned from my mama? To appreciate a good Cary Grant movie, how to decorate an old-fashioned Christmas tree, how to make a good cup of tea (British mamas put that in you when you’re born) and how to not give a damn what someone thinks about you, as long as you’re happy. xoxo
Talia says
Love this post. Makes me miss my Mom something fierce. Enjoy every minute of your time and visit. You have a way with words and your pictures make me sigh in the best way!
ktzmum says
My mom taught me to love unconditionally! LOVE your big, floppy hat!!
Janice says
My mother, ugh I can barely type this without tearing up, has always reminded me that I will always be her baby. Now, I plan to show my son that same thing. I will ALWAYS say I love him and shower him with hugs and kisses, even if they’re unwelcome, because that’s what my mother taught me. She has loved and supported me more than any one person ever could or will. I love my mother with my whole heart. Love is the best thing she ever taught me.
Carrie Stevenson says
I learned from my happy, funny mama that laughter truly is the best medicine. Oh, and how to make a mean linguine with white clam sauce — my grandma taught me about pies 😉
mpezzell says
wow, first wonderful post! second ♥ the super cute up-dos and buns! & thirdly – i am so in ♥ with that suit!! awesome!
i learned from my mom to find joy in the simplest moments and to make a mean lasagna!!
The Wagner Family says
Beautiful post! My mother taught me your family is everything. To be yourself and feed your passion. That nothing is sweeter than the smell of a newborn baby. That life is not always easy but to never be too hard on yourself. Family meals are a gathering place for good conversation and finally how a good outfit can lift a mood!
Lisa says
My mama taught me to be kind – I needed that lesson as a girl!
Charlie's Mommy says
I lost my mom two years ago. I have to say that not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. There are so many things she taught me; however, I think one thing that stands out in my mind is to be quick to listen and slow to talk. I try to use this everyday. Some other fun things were casseroles, cookies, and always balance your checkbook and save money!!!
Miss Jewells says
This makes me want to go spend time with my mama right now! I think the best thing I’ve ever learned from her is selfless love. She sets the best example! 🙂
Tia says
Oh my. I lost my mama when I was 26. She never got to know my own sweet girl. I miss her every single second. She taught me a bunch. I get my love of books from her, and she taught me how to make a mean bread pudding. But my favorite lesson she taught me would have to be being able to see the fun in every situation. She made everything fun. I miss that most of all.
Halie says
I learned from my gran-ma-ma. Although she never said anything or complained about being ill, if I needed her, she was there…always. She taught me how to make homemade chicken and dumplings, and made the meanest coconut and chocolate pies. She also taught me to put my big girl panties on and deal with what life throws your way, to speak what’s on your mind because you may not get a second chance to do so. My gran-ma-ma beat lung cancer in 1997. While going through radiation, then surgery, she never quit “doing” for people. She was strong willed. In 2010, she began having health issues. Frequent hospital stays, problems with passing out, and finally put on oxygen. They had found a mass on her one of her kidneys, and later diagnosed her with congestive heart failure. She passed away shortly after 3 a.m. on April 23 of last year, one week before her scheduled surgery. My heart was broken into a million tiny little pieces, and still has yet to heal. But, the life lessons she taught still linger in my heart, like tiny whispers when things get tough. I take what I am given, and deal with it. She spent her entire life doing for others. Now, she is finally resting. I miss my gran-ma-ma something fierce. But she taught me well.
Rosa says
I’ve learned to be strong and carry on when times are tough 🙂
Dianagoddess says
We lost our Mom, Rose, over 20 years ago and with three daughters still young, we remember her words when we did something stupid or foolish. She would say: “Rosie didn’t raise any dummies”! It still gives us the encouragement to do the right thing.
Jillian22 says
What a beautiful post, Kelle! You must wave a magic wand every time you sit down to write because your words sound like magic. My favorite thing I learned from my mom? I learned that it is ok to be who we are. My mom and I are very similar, and now that I’m an adult, I can recognize that and embrace it. We are friends, as well as mother/daughter.
marinj says
I’ve learned so much from my mom. How to write thank you notes, how to enjoy and love nature, how to bake and cook, how to laugh at myself, and the list could go on. Love the swimsuit!
Anne says
There are so many beautiful things I learned and continue to learn from my momma! A little glass of cola and a few saltines helps any sick kid feel better. I learned how to sing because of my momma and narrate impromptu stories based off of the day’s events. I also learned how to stretch a meal to serve more but without sacrificing taste!
parlasoni says
i learned to be gentle and patient…or at least i’m trying to follow in those steps! don’t think i quite have it down like my mom does 😉
canadianbakers says
Unfortunately, my mom taught me more about what I don’t want to do with my own babies – although those are lessons and things learned as well.
But my biggest “mom mentor” is my mother-in-law. I learn so much from her about patience and faith and love.
I can’t wait until the next time we have grandparents’ visits!
Molly says
My mom taught us to give back. She was always helping deliver meals to seniors who couldn’t leave their houses or donating goods to The Salvation Army. I could never forget how she instilled that in us. A giving heart.
brandonsmommy says
My mom taught me manners. I know it sounds silly and simple, but I was always taught that manners are so important, and I always get comments now from people telling me how polite my children are. Not enough children know manners these days!
Theresa says
My momma taught me to love children. To talk to them all the time and let them into your world.
I laughed at the dishcloths one because my mom taught me the same thing. My mother-in-law did not teach my husband that 🙂
Thanks for the chance to win.
Cerissa Beveridge says
I have learned that things aren’t as bad as they seen in the moment. She had taught me to be strong and hold my head up high no matter what. She has taught me self worth and how to treat others so they will continue to feel their own self worth.
Peeper says
My mom was a great living example of honesty and perseverance.
I wonder what else I might have learned from her after becoming a mother myself. My mom, who lived in Naples, died a little over 2 years ago when my daughter was only 11 weeks old. Her death made me analyze our relationship in a way that I might not have otherwise done. It is a constant motivation to fight my lazier instincts and really BE the mother I want to be. As I’ve mention to you here in your comment section before, you are a great role model for that 🙂
Ms.Curdy says
you and nella are lovely in lavender!
Great post, I especially appreciate the part about being ‘in the middle’, it is so true and so, so sweet.
Katie...It Comes and Goes says
I learned from my mom to pick my battles when I it comes to my boys and then asking for things. I have to stop and think…why not and I usually give in. And pairing socks. ha ha.
I am in love with that red suit!! you are beautiful!
cay says
Wow, what I learned from my mama? So much! But as a new mama, I think one of the best lessons is patience. She may not cook up the best concoctions in the kitchen, but my mom can out-patient the best of them!
Stephanie says
The best thing I learned from my mom was that being yourself and standing up for what you believe in or feel will always make you happy in the end.
Shawna says
I learned from my momma to enjoy every little thing in life. She is always about going on adventures when she comes to visit me. And because of her, I do the same thing, and I can only hope I pass that love onto my daughter and my tiny twin boys.
On another note, I love that bathing suit! I can never find flattering ones, especially now that I have had twins I am not looking forward to bathing suit season
Alicia says
I remember when my grandmom used to come visit us. The laundry was always done, folded, and put on our beds for us to put away. There was always a homemade dinner in the works when we all got home. She created my love of baking with these trips. I learned many tricks from her. How to best butter & flour a bundt pan; the fun of experimenting with new recipes you found by chance; how a homemade cake or cookies could brighten anyones day. She is my favorite person on this whole planet. She is my go-to when Im not sure of something, regardless of what it is. She is my favorite. She is my person. I love her
ASoric says
My Mom taught me that family is the most important thing in the world. I really miss her!
Jaime says
My mama taught me how to be a good host and cook. Know your guests likes and dislikes, set a beautiful table, and always make double the amount of food you will actually need. There is a saying in my house, “if you leave my house hungry, its your own fault.” There is nothing better than having a group of loved ones sitting around a table enjoying a fabulously prepared meal.
morrest1101 says
My mom has taught me that strength is one trait that needs to be present!
Lauren Stahr says
My mum taught me to take care of, and stand up for, myself. She taught me to reach for what I want, and when I got there, to reach again. Thank goodness for mamas!
And thank you for the beautiful photos and words in this post, as always!
Ashley Gaspar says
My mom has taught me so much… The sun isn’t always shining, but you get the best tan on a cloudy day. The grass is never greener, because those little brown spots make wicked fun mud puddles. Silence is not a virtue, because silence is acceptance and speaking out is what makes us strong. There’s so much I’ve learned and keep learning…
Shelley says
Great Post! What I have learned from my Mom is EVERYTHING! We are slowly losing her to end stage dementia and I just treasure all of our life moments together!
Never leave the house in a wrinkled blouse, always speak like a lady, unconditionally love your family and friends, give all children and animals extra love, keep your children close to heart!
My Mom is truly one in a million!
Love from Shelley in Fl
Janessa says
My mom taught me to be friendly…to engage strangers, to ask questions, to be curious about people….I hated it as a teenager, but I’ve grown to appreciate it and hope it rubbed off on me a bit.
Benay says
My mom taught me perseverance. She also tried to teach me how to make pies, and while I’m not horrible at making them, the skills passed straight to my husband. She was content with her son in law using her recipes, so I’m off the hook. 😉
kim says
beautiful post. it makes me sad that my mom won’t ever see my kids grow up and that they won’t ever have a grammy around … so precious <3
my mom taught me to be strong and that i can do anything i set my mind to. i miss her.
Courtney @ One Fine Wire says
I learned that no matter how bad you think you have it, someone always has it worse. Be strong and live life to the fullest!
Jenny Perry Photography says
My mom taught me that laughter is the best medicine, that you can never go wrong by doing a good deed for someone, and that if you get bad service it’s ok to write a complaint letter. Haha!
Bless by Tone says
The ONE thing that’s the most important I learned from my mother, is that she ALWAYS had time for us when we were little – and that’s what I want my girls to experience, big or little, I will always have time for them
Sarah C. says
Mom always taught me, “Remember who you are and what you represent.” And as family lessons go, passed down from generation to generation: Always wear your seatbelt!
Stephanie says
I’m so lucky to live within 8 minutes of my mama! And so are my kids! Because of my mama, I can cook. I mean, like really cook! Everybody talks about my mom’s cooking, and thank the Lord in heaven, I inherited that from her! We are so different, my mama and I. I am so much more like my dad, but I get my softer side from my mama. Again, thank the Lord again!
P.S. I’ve been envying your swimsuit since last year, and have decided I’m getting it for our trip to Hawaii (with my Mama!) in July. Now I’ll wait for the giveaway. 😉
Kylie says
My mama has taught me so much and there is still so much to learn. She’s completely selfless and always puts others first. She is kind and gentle and truly lives by the statement — if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all [she is much stronger than me, when it comes to that last statement]. xo.
Inspiração Inesperada says
“I look back for inspiration, I look forward with motivation.”
LOVED this…
Our Family says
My Mom taught me everything I know and since she watches my girls every day while I am work, she gets to teach them those same things and I love that. One thing I learned from my Mom, the love of reading. One of my most favoritest things to do! And my 2 girls, at 3 yrs and 18 mos, they love to read also. Story time is the best time of day and it happens often around our home!!
Beautiful post.
thanks!
Denise says
This had me tearing up, what a wonderful post about your Mom. I love my Mom, she has taught me so much about being a good person and being selfless while also taking care of herself. She is the most wonderful, mother and grandmother and now I miss her terribly!!!
tracyallegre says
I learned that food tastes better on a nicely set table, and it’s always about the food, that’s what keeps the family together.
Karen says
Oooooh Popina has just the kind of suit I’ve been looking for ever since I had my first baby and decided to put away the skimpy bikinis of my youth!
Michelle says
Such a sweet post! It’s amazing how we begin to understand and appreciate our mothers when we have children of our own.
That picture of Nella typing is sooo cute! My girls are always commenting on how adorable she is, and Lainey is just gorgeous.
Thanks for sharing.
Meagan Kenney says
Wow! I have learned so much from my mom, it’s hard to even pinpoint one thing. Maybe it’s the fact that she has always reiterated the fact that there is nothing stronger than a mother’s intuition! Listen to it!
Love your green nail polish! Tres chic!
Paige says
LOve your swim suit and LOVE your bright lipstick – super on you! My Mama taught me to clean before putting up decorations and that white vinegar can take away a really yucky smell. Oh yeah, and if it’s gonna snow, make sure you have gas in your car. Among other great things. She is the best! She taught me to be respectful of people and considerate of poeple, especially when they are sleeping!
Caroline says
Unconditional love!! And that no matter what you are perfect the way you are. Sigh…loving mom right now and missing her like mad!
afiehweg says
My mom taught me about hard work. She was a single mother and worked her butt off to support us. I love her for that!
Btw, that suit is awesome!
keshiaw says
The biggest thing I learned from my mom, is the importance of following your dreams. Not in the future–not tomorrow–but today. Right now!
Carrie says
Mamas are the best. I totally find that being a mom myself also makes me realize how amazing my own mom was. She was always my rock, full of good advice and warm hugs. A cool hand on a fevered brow. We made it through the rough teenage years together (where I know I wasn’t very nice to her), and we’re unscathed and there’s no one I’d rather call at the end of a good day, or a horrible day, than my mama. Enjoy your mom’s visit…the girls look like they’re having a great time with their grandma 🙂
Aubrie says
My mom taught me how to be capable, to love baking with my kids, and that I deserve nothing but the best.
RALV says
What I learned from my mother? Love- it´s as simple as that.
What a wonderful post and:
I want that suit !!!!!
Vaea says
I just LOVE your blog. I’ve been reading you for about a year and you are so inspiring. My mom taught me to always be there for your family. She taught me to be caring and is such a role model of what kind of mom and wife I want to be.
Emily says
As Abe Lincoln said, “All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.”
As an adult, I look up to and aspire to be more like my mother every day. She is my mentor, my role model, and though this wasn’t always the case, she is my best friend.
My mother taught me the power of the imagination, and in a nutshell, made my childhood magical. I hope that I can pass this on to my children.
DeAnna says
What I have learned (or what I’m trying to learn) from my mom: She’s always content and grateful for what she has. She truly does not speak negatively about anyone…she always tries to find the good in every person. She doesn’t complain. She’s so soothing, happy, nurturing and drama invades her life NEVER. She’s an incredible cook and she has worked hard every day of her life.
Glad you are getting some quality time with your mom this week Kelle!
Bethany says
I’ve learned that in most cases, a hug can cure anything.
jamieandmaddie says
Now that i am a mom this is what i finally have learned from mine. My mom taught me to push myself, to try new things – even when it may not be “cool”. She took me to special places when I was young to allow me the experience of it all. She taught me to be friendly and open and courteous to everyone. She taught me how to take care of myself – so just in case I needed to, I would have the confidence and where with all to do it. She taught me you don’t have to be June cleaver perfect to be a GREAT mom. Mostly, she showed me how she would step up and drop everything for her family when we needed her & that she always had our back.
Taylor says
I learned that we should care what other people think of us not in the sense that if they dont like us we should change ourselves but in the sense that we should be kind and follow rules etc.. its hard to explain in writing the way it is explained in person. i hope you have fun with your mom and george some of my favorite memories are with my grandparents
Neena says
My mama taught me to work hard…always.
Lindsay says
Love the picture of Nella on her computer, she looks all grown up typing away! 🙂
My Momma taught me how to be strong, to love, to be kind, to always mind my “P’s & Q’s” and in relationships, to grow together.
Love the swimsuit, can’t wait until its the sun melts the ice off the lake so we can go for a swim 🙂
Meadowlark says
As a new first time mama I’ve learned to let go and let my kid grow and change at his own pace. Why get crazy about every milestone? As my mom says “No one ever went to Harvard in diapers!”
Audrey says
When my Mama comes to my house time stands still. My Mama has done for me just what I hope to do for my boys. She encourages, she prays, she praises, and she can cook like no other! I love watching her with my kids…where too am right in the middle of needing my Mama and being a Mama. It’s the perfect place to be…taking in all in!
Liz says
My mom taught me to bake cookies, love unconditionally, cry when you want to, smile and never go a day without saying, “I love you” to people you love!
Kristin says
learned that a mom stand with you no matter what happens in life. love your blog thanks!!
irelassred says
I learned lots from my mom. I learned how to cook & how to bake. I learned how to treat my husband with love & respect, & I also learned from her (&him!) how a woman should be treated.
I learned that intentions shine through brighter than mistakes, which means I know for sure she always did the best she could in any circumstance. Now that I’m expecting my first child I can only hope to be as good as she was & is!
Kimberlee Flesch says
how to forgive others and how to make the meanest, baddest, most sinful chicken and rice casserole that has led to 3 marriages in her side of the family, including my own 😉 love her!
Caroline says
I love this post! I learned to always look for opportunities to celebrate and do something special, whether it be for the smallest of holidays, a good grade, or even if it’s just the first day of a new month. 🙂
Jessica says
I learned to be strong and stand on your own. Because sometimes, that is all you have to count on: yourself.
Jenny says
I learned patience from my mom. Hse passed away when I was 22, just after my wedding. She was a lovely woman in all aspects, and I wish so strongly that she could be here to show me the way with my own children. I know she’s looking down on us and looking out for us as well…
Nichole says
I learned how to be strong and capable, how to hook the VCR and stereo to the TV and make everything work. Basically that girls can do everything boys can do, and that we don’t need to wait to watch that new Disney movie just because Dad is at work and can’t fix the VCR.
Hansel says
I ADORE those bathing suits! You stunning in them!!
One thing i learned from my momma… to give. My mother was always one of those people who gives and gives, and takes nothing for herself. I find myself repeating this- that true happiness for me is giving to others, not receiving for myself. I hope it’s something i can pass on to my daughter as well. Giving, is so much better!
8bc40bfa-6eb2-11e1-92a9-000bcdcb8a73 says
I learned to not sweat the small stuff and to love like there is no tomorrow because you never know when your loved one will be gone. My mom has been gone for 12 years and I miss not being able to see her love on my two little girls. I knew she would have! 🙂
8bc40bfa-6eb2-11e1-92a9-000bcdcb8a73 says
I learned to not sweat the small stuff and to love like there is no tomorrow because you never know when your loved one will be gone. My mom has been gone for 12 years and I miss not being able to see her love on my two little girls. I knew she would have! 🙂
Suspended Across the Pacific says
My Mama taught me strength, independence, and self-worth. Now that I have a daughter of my own, I see a lot of my Mama in me!
Theresa says
My mom used to hide buried treasure in our backyard for me to find when I was a kid. I loved that. I want my kids to love that too 🙂
Also… I read this while snuggling my girls and my 4-year-old said to me, “Mommy, I think Nella has a Dora computer. Nella is so cute. I think Nella and Lainey should come to Cecilia’s birthday party.” 🙂 (Cecilia is my almost 3-year-old.) I think it’s sweet that she loves looking at your blog just as much as her mama!
Chelsea says
I cannot even begin to list all of the wonderful things I learned from my amazing mother…..but most importantly to love others…..nothing else matters when there is true genuine love toward others……..family, friends and strangers all alike.
Thank you Kelle for always inspiring! : )
lexibucz says
One of the best things I learned from my mom is how to help people in need – my mom has always been fantastic about putting the needs of everyone around her first… to a fault sometimes, but helping people is what makes her happy.
I too love the middle space – needing my mom to teach me things I haven’t yet figured out, and watching with joy as she interracts with my children learning how proud she is of who they have become from what we have taught them, of course learned from her.
You never cease to inspire me Kelle – and I will continue to anxiously open your blog almost daily to see your beautiful pictures, carefully constructed amazing awe-inspiring words, and some comfort knowing that I too can manage and juggle it all and be happy…Thank you!
cousin Cindy says
I love the lipstick and big smile..always your big smile and Lainey and Nella’s sweet faces.
My mom taught me to always pray for those that hurt you. She taught me many things that I do not want to practice:) But, she did teach me to pack a well stuffed suitcase when traveling..always be prepared. And,how to cook good down south yummy food, although, today, I try to cook with less fat:)
Have fun with your mom….
Christie says
I’ve learned that family isn’t always the people who share the same DNA, but rather the people you love and cherish most in your life. And, every situation has a silver lining. Even if you can’t see it at first.
Genia & Shaylon says
I love Popina swimwear! I’ve learned from my mom to be who you are. I struggle with that, she is quite a personality. 🙂 She is who she is. I’ve learned that mom’s are the best friends a girl could ask for – a wealth of knowledge. I love my mom.
Shannon says
I have a horrible crappy relationship with my mom, with very few good memories of us together as a kid. She suffers from severe depression. This is my motivation give my kids a mother that I always longed for, memories that will not be tainted by bad ones that out weigh the good. I am lucky to have a mil now who is like your mom, and a new step mom who is helping start new traditions. I adore you are a lipstick girl, but I gotta ask, how can you stand to kiss your kiddies with it? Every time I try to wear lipstick it just makes a mess cause I kiss my kids like every 5 seconds. I guess I am just not a lipstick gal 🙂
Jen Tappen-Smith says
My mom taught me to be independent and to not apologize for being me. She is pretty awesome.
Kelly Jo says
Love this post, I can’t imagine not living close to my Mama. She lives about 3/10s of mile from me and I don’t know what I would do without her. She has taught me how to love unconditionally, don’t stress over the little stuff, LIVE, and how to trim/prune some bushes and!!!
Krystal says
My mom taught me to be an independent thinker and to be loving and gracious to everyone. I loved what you wrote about ‘looking back for inspiration and looking forward with motivation.’ I think that is a great motto to live by.
Thanks for your beautiful words and inspiring message as always. Can’t wait to read your book! 🙂
Meghan Elaine says
My Mom taught me to always be consistent. She was/is my safe place where I know what to expect and I know I will always be loved. Like the cliche, she is ‘my rock.’
Mama Raconteur says
This mama post is so timely because I get to see my mama today too! And I totally know what you mean by being between needing a mommy and being a mommy. My mom taught me that traveling is the ultimate treat, sometimes we need to jump in with our eyes closed, and that mama lips pressed on your forehead can make all your worries disappear even if only for a moment. What she hasn’t taught me is how to make the perfect soft boiled egg because apparently that is a talent that can’t be taught. Blasted!
Juli says
My comment is completely unrelated to your post, but I would love to hear your thoughts on the recent lawsuit won by a couple in Oregon claiming they would have aborted their daughter if they knew she had Down Syndrome. Just won $3M for “wrongful birth”. I think you live a wonderful example of celebrating differences and finding strength in the hardships/unpredictabilities of life and could shine some positive light in the midst of this sad case.
The onion Farmers Wife says
From my-mother-in-law(whom is no longer with us) To be spontaneous with my kids. Get in the car and drive to the candy store to let them pick one small candy, take a drive and play at the park, head to the movies on a weeknight(insert gasp here), and enjoy them now. They grow up so fast and life is so full of places to be…..
Kell says
I learned to keep wedding vows “until death do us part” as I watched my mom take care of my dad until ALS won the battle when he was 47.
Mama Bird says
I was a bit of a neurotic child but my mom (and dad) never made a big deal out of it, never mocked me. They accepted me for who I was and taught me to have a sense of humor about myself. Best lesson I ever learned!
Tara
Alex, Kristi and Alison says
From my mom, I learned to make the little things count. And that even something simple can be made into something special.
Oklahoma Mohrs says
My mom also taught me to love on my babies even when they aren’t babies anymore. She taught me to be confident and kind. She showed me how to make something fun or do something fun and creative with something oridinary.
R. says
I learned what it means to love unconditionally.
Katie says
From my mom, I learned how to be a mommy…and though I only have a year of experience under my belt so far, I’m pretty confident in my abilities, thanks to her!
Diane says
My Momma taught me to appreciate everything life gives you (and to this day she is still via phone teaching me to cook all the fabulous things that she does).
P.S. I had to forward this post to my Momma because it made me smile and though I feel a lot of these sentiments now, I look forward to the time when I have children of my own and I can identify with all of them!
Amanda says
I learned my love of reading, old movies, and good music from my mom. She’s also coming to visit in a little over a month and I can’t wait to share her with my babies!
Susan says
As a family we just celebrated the life of my Grandma. She taught me the value of a quite presence, and the benfits of a keeping treats around for those who might just stop by.
Colleen says
Love the bathing suit!
The thing I learnt from my Momma, who learnt from her Momma, is how to make borscht. It is a good recipe because we make it a lot less fattening.
Jacki @ A Certain Type of Glow says
From MY mom, I’ve learned the power of being politely, kindly assertive and asking for what I want. I also slowly, reluctantly learned – and now happily embrace – the ability to make strangers into friends on a moment’s notice.
From my sweetheart’s mom, I’ve learned the beauty of being calm and non-reactive, of observing and approaching things without worry or panic.
♥
megsplegs says
i love watching you & the girls enjoy your sweet mama! looks like another sweet memory making visit.
my mom taught me how to cook, attention to detail, forgiveness, faith, how to love.
xo,
megs
ps. your lipstick is killer! love it!
Meghan says
Loved this post..
My mom taught me to always try to find yourself in others..to empathize with the world. And to be brave, despite your fears.
Abilew-who says
Wow. You look great in that suit. And speaking of mothers, mine always called them bathing suits, not swimming suits, and we were bathing beauties. This always mortified me a bit in the way that silly teenagers are sometimes mortified over any old thing their moms do. I appreciate my mother’s eccentricities and her enthusiasm. I hope one day my kids can look back at the goofball things I say and do and laugh just as my brother, sister and I do. My mom makes me smile.
katie says
This is a beautiful post, especially because I spent Wednesday celebrating my momma’s birthday. She taught me that it’s okay to be vulnerable, how to show love in so many ways, and how to make a mean tuna casserole.
Court says
I’ve learned that you’re never too old to “start over” or try something new. My mom is in her mid-late 50s and is working on her Ph.D. and taking swing dance classes.
I also learned how to love, and get my open-heartedness from her. She’s coming in for a visit tonight – I can’t wait! 🙂
kalah says
love this post. so true about being at the age where you are a mom but still need a mom. my mother taught me patience (“just slow down”), that it’s okay to fear a crowd, hug your babies when they cry (even if you’re trying to teach them to be tough) and to eat when you’re on a shopping spree so your energy level stays up. mamas are the best.
xxx Hannah xxx says
Perfect… xx
LauraH says
how funny that you posted this today — my mom visited this weekend and after she left i got terribly sick. a phone call to her today brightened my sick morning! My mom taught me grace — to stay cool and classy and control my urge to always be in charge. what a lovely gift.
Sara says
My mom has showed me how to be compassionate and completely selfless as a mother. I remember her taking such good care of me whenever I was sick, no matter what else was going on, even if she was ill herself. Every time I would get over my illness, I remember thinking, “wow, she loves me so much. I’m so lucky.” I hope my little baby girl has the same fond memories of me someday.
K-Nap says
I, too, appreciate my mom so much more than when I was younger; and truly realize all of the things she did and all of the sacrifices she made for my sister and I when we were growing up! My favorite thing I’ve learned from my mom is a love of baking and it is our Christmas tradition to bake to our hearts content in the days leading up to the day. We then put together care packages of our goodies and deliver them to all of our friends and family. It is the best gift you can give…something made with your own hands!!
Marie says
I’ve learned that everything taste better if it has guacamole on it! Love my mom!
P. says
My mommy taught me to love. To love as much as I can. She taught me to be a good person and a good mom. She is amazing.
Totally love the picture of Nella in the raft. Adorable!
California Schurmans says
fantastic writing! and pics! You inspire me every day to love my daughter a little more and to try and be more patient with her even though she is full of the dickens:-) I learned a lot from my mom but one thing that really sticks with me is to always be ready to show up! You are never off duty and the moments when they come crying are the times they will never forget!
Amy says
What do I love about being a mom?? EVERYTHING!!!!!! Wait, I said that in a moment of inspiration.. not everything, I guess. Cuddles, naps, watching new experiences and growth, kissing boo-boos, cooking, I could go on and on..
Tammy says
I learned that cleanliness is next to Godliness from my mother.
I learned that a clean house can wait your children cannot from my mother in law.
I have found my groove somewhere in between.
Amber - Binkertation says
what a beautiful post! I’ve watched your girls grow, but not often commented.
You are a beautiful woman – LOVE the braid in the suit shot and that suit is to die for.
So glad you got heart happy time with Mama around 🙂
Amber - Binkertation says
oops – totally forgot to include what I learned from my mama.
most of all, to go after whatever I want in life – that I can’t wait for others to do it for me. And, I can do anything I dream of!
prettipenny says
I have learned a lot from my mom ( and I still keep learning from her!) But I think one of the greatest things she taught me is how to be a strong woman.
Unknown says
I’ve learned to love everyone equal and stick up for others who need sticking up for… she’s a main reason I’m a special ed teacher!
Jessie says
I love how close you are to your family! The one thing (among many)about my mother that sticks with me are her sayings….particularly “if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all”. Such a great concept for life!
Morgan says
The most important thing I learned from my mother is to show your love. Love doesn’t only come in the form of words, but it is manifested in everyday things. She is most known for her love through food. She makes the best homemade pecan caramel rolls I have every eaten.
Aimee says
To love everyone equally and to stick up for those that need sticking up for… she’s a main reason I became a special ed teacher!
NeeNee says
What a great post! Oh, how I miss my Mama, but I know she’s my angel watching over my babies now. I think what I learned most from her was what uncoditional love really was and how you do have it for your childern. She’d always tell me “you’ll know what I mean when you have kids of your own”. Thank God I was able to tell her she was so right.
Carla says
My mom taught me to not give up, to work hard, to always support your family. She taught me to have a family dinner every night, to always make extras for leftovers, and to keep a clean house.
Amy says
Love, Love the red suit!
My mom taught me to be strong! She also taught me craftiness and that you can fix most anything! Anytime something breaks on my kids toys, they will say…Nana can fix it 🙂
Emily says
I love your kind words about your mama. Mine definitely holds a special place in my heart and I would do anything for her.
The Working Momma says
What I’ve learned from my mama…you always have something to give, whether it’s an outgrown coat or time spent with your family. She is a wonderful mom and grandmother, giving of her time and talents. I love you, Mama!
Maggie says
The best thing I have learned from my Mama is forgiveness. She is the most forgiving person I know. She is hurt, and somehow, moments later she has already forgiven that person. Such grace. I love that woman.
Jenn says
You can never get rid of too much clutter, tomato soup is best when sipped from a big mug, and to always have empathy for your kids when they don’t feel good* Mama’s cool back hand feels the best!
Thanks!!!!!
Erica Laurel Stewart says
My mom and I were just chatting about my slightly inscrutable younger brother (now not so young at 32) and she shared a phrase that she felt captured her feelings toward him: love beyond reason. I know she loves me to the max–perhaps I make it a little easier to, though 🙂
The "Hans-en-fef-ers" says
This is one of my favorite posts ever. Almost everything you mentioned about your mom is true of mine (from dishrags, to pantry casseroles). I think the MOST important thing I learned was to enjoy each ‘stage’ of my children’s lives and never wish they were older or younger- just to be in the moment.
NatBug says
I learned from my mom to always treat others the way you want to be treated and to love everyone with all my heart. I learned that compromising my beliefs to satisfy someone else will ultimatly lead to my happiness. I learned that even though I will never be perfect, there is always perfection in just being in the moment and taking in every sight, sound, smell, experience, you name it. From the smell of my baby’s head to the anticipation of letting my pre-teen gain more independence. But most importantly I leared to be me! I love my mama so! It is funny how as a young girl I used to resist her advice, now as a woman and a mama too, I soak it up like the rays from the sun on a warm afternoon!
BriBrooke says
Momma taught me safety before fun! When cooking for a man make sure to include bread…a man will always eat bread 🙂
alisha says
Despite an unseasonably warm Michigan winter [I think I live very close to were you are from originally, you mention landmarks in my hometown area :)], I am so ready for Summer.
My mom taught me that all of life is magical. Hills are sleeping dinosaurs, faeries live in the woods leading to Seven Lakes beach and if you keep your eyes open, there are gnomes everywhere. That kind of magic jas sustained me as an adult and has helped me see sparkles everywhere when I’m exploring the world with my daughter.
Heather says
this post made me tear up! I’m a new momma (well, seven months in) and since becoming a mother, I have a whole new respect and love for my mama.
She taught me so much… to always try new things, be kind, to seek God’s best over my best always, to sew, to make some fabulous baked goods, to dust AFTER you vacuum, and what loving your kids looks like.
Thanks for sharing your momma with us… and that killer swimsuit. Saw it on instagram and have to have it!
fiwa says
You look just like your mama!
My mom makes fabulous pie crust and light as air biscuits, neither one of which have I been able to master – so far. 😉
I love the swimsuits on their website and I’m so excited to see they are in Portland. I’ll be visiting there in a few weeks, I hope I can convince my friends we need to drop in. What cute suits! So much prettier than what I saw online at Nordstrom yesterday. I like that they cover your bum but still look cute.
What I learned from my mama: humility, manners and grace under pressure. Also, because she was a depression baby, how to seriously stretch a buck. My mama is 84, and I treasure her every day.
Laura Carmody says
my mom taught me when i was little that only boring people get bored, and i knew right then and there that i did not want to be boring!
Diana says
So sweet!
My mom taught me so much about creativity, and about loving what you do.
bencu says
My mama taught me how to be strong and independent! She was a great mom to be and I love watching her be a grandma to my girls. She loves them almost as much as I do!
Michal says
Love the post… makes me appreciate my mama even more (even though she only lives 20 minutes away).
My mama taught me unconditional love, the power of the mama touch to make the bad go away and how to be the queen of the kitchen.
Love Popina, have a swimsuit and swim skirt from a couple years back and have been itching for a new one!
-Michal
That Recruit's Wife says
My mom taught me to love completely unconditionally. Best life lesson ever.
Angie says
This post? Readin’ my mind. I’ve had so many similar thoughts here lately. I just love hearing about your mama 🙂
A couple of favorites from my mom and stepmom(I really dislike the word “stepmom”. She’s been there since I was six months old, there’s nothing “step” about our relationship or our love)
MOM: To live in the moment because you aren’t guaranteed tomorrow. The love of books.
Stepmom: How to reach out with love when your initial reaction is not to be loving at all. To see the good in people. To give the benefit of the doubt.
XOXO,
Angie from Ohio
Candice says
I learned from my mom to always show compasion for people and that know matter what you have, you can always help others.
christine says
hands down, she taught me about unconditional love. for my family, my husband, my kids, and myself. it’s a life changer that’s for sure.
Mamalang says
My mom taught me that silence is golden, not because she believes that, but because she doesn’t 🙂
And I totally need a new cute swimsuit after losing 40 pounds. 🙂
The Caldwell Adventures says
i learned that there is always room at the table. for single moms…for widows…for friends whose parent’s were not always around…my mom always made room for people to feel like family. i love that.
PhaseThreeOfLife says
My mom taught me how to determine whether a cake is really a good cake – you gotta see teeth marks in the frosting after you take a bite.
McGill says
My Mom taught me how to serve. When I had each of my two babies, she flew in from FL to wherever I happened to be living and ran my household for no less than 2 weeks. Cooking, cleaning, mending, ironing, snuggling the toddler or the baby…my husband especially didn’t want to let her go home when the time was up! And I felt lost – living far apart is heart-wrenching at times. The days I serve others I smile to myself and think, “I’m making my Mama proud today…”
Alli says
Oooh girl, I’ve been eyeing those Popinas for a good year now. Even visited the shop in Portland and tried on the yellow. It’s so divine! I’d really love to win.
Things I have learned from my mother: Lose the drama. Instead, be elegant, careful, and kind.
XOXO,
Alli
P.S. I love the lipstick you are wearing in the photos with Nella. What is the shade?
Feisty Mama says
I learned from my mom that sometimes it is best to take a deep breath before answering your children. Because sometimes their questions can make you speechless 🙂
Laura says
oh my word, those swimsuits are darling. I’m going to Mexico in early May and might have to treat myself to a new suit!
Amanda says
Oh to win one of those! I’m currently very out of shape, overweight, and just feeling unmotivated. Everytime I see pics of your super cute suits, I think, “Get moving Amanda!”.
If I won, I would buy one in my goal size and hang it up in my bathroom to look at every day. 🙂
Andrea and Josh says
I learned how to overcome. My mom can hold her head high saying she worked her family from poverty to middle class. I’m damn proud of that.
I’m learning how to make homemade biscuits. Good, crumbly, just a little bit of bad cholesterol, Southern, homemade biscuits. Right now mine suck, but I’m getting there.
I loved the line ‘Looking back for inspiration, looking forward with motivation.’ So true!
Sarah says
love the suit, kelle. enjoy the time with your mama! i just shared this yesterday with my husband…what i have learned from my mama: it’s to always say ‘i love you’ when parting from your loved ones…b/c you just never know what might happen.
Juanita says
My Mom taught me that forgiveness is key in leading a life of joy, that God will give you the strength to get through anything, but mostly she showed me unconditional love. And how to make an amazing roast. 🙂
Kelle, You’re beautiful. Thanks so much for always being such an inspiration.
Lo says
Sounds so very simple, but it’s so true. My mom has helped me learn how to be a mom. How to be selfless and enjoy it. How to have patience. How to smile through the hard times. She’s a great example 🙂
lauradstern (at) gmail (dot) com
Shaun says
Love that you’re wearing your mama’s sunglasses in the last photo, this post makes for a great mother’s day post!
My mother taught me to be a strong independent woman and the joys of cooking 🙂
Enjoy the time with your Mother.
Erica says
My Mommy taught (and is teaching me) how to talk to people. I still can’t talk to just anyone with the ease and grace that she can, but I’ve gradually picked up her “starting and keeping a conversation going from thin air” magic skills that I used to think were simply impossible. For this introvert, she’s the best extrovert Mommy ever.
In Real Life says
My mom taught me how to bake, how to use common sense to solve problems, and how to keep my chin up.
This is a really gorgeous post!
Lisa Hewlett says
Oh man – my work blocked the Popina web site – marked it as “lingerie” – ha!
My mom is still teaching me, even thought I’m 30. Most of all she’s taught me (or at least SHOWN me) true patience.
David and Courtney says
love love that suit! my mom also taught me that you’re never too old for a hug.
clarita says
i learned the song, “you are my sunshine” (our family song) and it’s being passed onto the next generation of the kim family…it’s a very special song for us.
Kerrie says
Not quite a Mama myself, but your posts fill this 30-week pregnant gals heart will all the magic that being on has. My Mother and I are so wildly different in our personalities that I learned from her if you do what you think in your heart is best, everything else will just fall into place.
bubblytoes28 says
I learned not to take myself too seriously and to help others as best I can. 🙂
Emily Peck says
I learned to use dish cloths not sponges too. 🙂 And, how to pack lunches, measure flour, and iron. 🙂
PS – I thought I saw this floating around last week but what is your latest red/orange lipstick you are wearing??? I love it soooo much!
Shannon says
My Mom- how to cook, how to read a good story, and that knowing how to spell is important.
BTW – I love the new suit!
Kathleen says
So many little life lessons come to mind from my wise mother, but a few of my favorites are
* Never walk into someones home with both arms the same length (i.e.: always bring a gift, or food, or a bottle of wine)
* Be strong, see the positives in people, and don’t hold a grudge
*Get an education and be passionate about what you do
* Marry a man who will adores you and cognitively challenges you
Enjoy your time with you family and, as always, thank you for your nourishing words, Kelle!
Kathleen in Chicago
Tiff and Seth says
What did I learn from my mom?
No matter how far apart we are (she currently lives in NV and I in AL), she is only a phone call away or a Skype session away and no matter what problem I am having-she will have the answer! She has taught me that love has no distance. Although, I did miss her hugs and kisses!
AND- I would LOVE a new swimsuit for when my mom comes to visit- she will be going with us to the beach, and it will be the first time she has been with my daughter!
Ashley says
I learned to continue on. I learned what strength looks like. I learned how to be independent, strong, and kind. I learned to cherish every moment, and to always stop to dance in the rain. I learned how to be a mother.
Emily says
Love this! Love The Middle Place and Kelly’s wise and honest words. I think about her often and was happy to read about you thinking about her too!
My mama – man, she and Krissy would be great friends, I am sure (and not just because they are both Michiganers!) She taught kindness through example, love through embrace and that if your pants have belt loops you shouldn’t leave the house without a belt in them! Gotta love a mama!
Julie says
My mother taught me to care more about people and relationships than about a clean house or a perfect image. 🙂
Lauren says
I love your mom’s “you’ve got to show the crust who’s boss” I’m not sure why but that made me smile hard.
I’m so excited when my husband and I start having children so my mom can come and visit and spoil our kids silly. She will be awesome at it.
melissa says
Favorite things I learned ~
from my mom…
simplicity, perseverence
from my grandma…
compassion, empathy
Sara L says
Mom taught me how to do laundry – an important skill that my hubby and kiddos appreciate – you must fold the clothes while still warm – makes the task much easier to do!
Katieuna says
My mom taught me to give, to be happy and to fend of the blues with baking (or cookie dough! lol). I hope my girls learn the same from me. She is still my best friend and my go to person when I need a listening ear or a shoulder…
Jess says
Yeah! My mom taught me how to build the best forts, to take chances, to be strong, to bake, to love so much.
She’s the best and I’m so lucky she lives so close and that my son gets to see her every week at least.
Andrea says
I love this: I look back for inspiration, I look forward with motivation.
I learned how important family truly is.
TinaRina says
My mom taught me how important a home cooked meal is! Everyday we would have a delicious made from scratch meal sitting on the table for our family to share. I try to do the same for my family.
achio98 says
I’m still learning from my mama…….everytime I visit her or she visits me. I learn patience, I learn a new recipe, I learn that too quiet is sometimes better than too noisy. She reminds of the things I too often forget.
Amber says
I’ve learned from my mom that even if we don’t get to talk for months on end, we can pick right back up where we left off. Because we’re family. Because we have a bond stronger than miles or minutes. Because she’s my mom. And I love her.
Maureen says
Loving unconditionally, knowing mistakes happen and can be fixed, and brushing of the smalls stuff.
Jeff and Krista says
You can never say I love you too much, and never hesitate to hug a new friend – you never know how much it will mean to them
Karen says
Involved. We were her life and still are. I’m sure she is enjoying her freedom from being tied down to 5 kids though! She will drop anything to spend time with my 2 babies and I love watching her with them. Makes my heart happy!
Melissa says
My mom taught me to celebrate people. Birthdays were always a big deal and now that I’m married and live away from home I treasure that lesson and do my best to make other people feel special like my mom did.
lillies & lattes says
i have learned that i will always have roots, a safe place to land… even when i spread my wings.
Jennifer says
My mom taught me self confidence, self respect and the value of my body when it comes to saying no to drugs and sex. These lessons of course all came when I was a teenager and they are priceless. I only hope I can instill the same values in my daughter when she reaches that age!
Keely says
My mom has taught me so much, I wish she was still alive to teach me more. Although, I think I do still learn from her. In some way, she is with me watching over me as I now raise my babies. She taught me to love, to be kind, and stand up for myself. She taught me to believe in something….especially myself. I love her so much and wish her life in this world wasn’t cut as short as it was. I so badly want her to meet my 3 little girls. Although, she taught me that this life isn’t it, that families can be together forever. That’s probably the best lesson that she ever taught me.
Lisa Johnson says
Oh my goodness! How does one even begin to think of their favorite thing their Mom taught them? I have thousands of favorites to choose from. I guess the most important one is to always be kind to everyone, b/c EVERYONE you meet is fighting a battle of some kind. No one has a perfect life, even if it seems like they do to the outside world. ♥
Lesley says
I know I am very very far down on the comment list but I just couldn’t resist the chance to win a swimsuit!:-)
My Mum taught me so much. She is visiting me in Switzerland from Canada right now and is across from me on the sofa at the moment! If I had to choose a really good piece of advice I think I’ll choose her advice about what to do for a living. “You should get up every day and love what you do.” Some less meaningful yet nonetheless important things…”put a penny in the bottom of a vase of tulips to make them last longer.” “join up velcro fastenings before you put them in the washing machine/dryer.”
Rebekah says
I keep learning and taking, but from my memory instead.. So enjoyed this post even though I don’t get to look back with my mom in person. I do love how my little one loves things she loved though — music, baking, decorating, people… Fun to be a part of!
Sam says
My Mom taught me so many things, but one thing I treasure is how to be a gracious host. When company came over, we spiffed up our house and nothing was more important than sitting around for a good visit.
KillerB says
My mother taught be how to be an encourager. She is a strong woman, and a very positive person – people flock to her, and I love that.
Your swimsuit is beautiful, I like your earrings too. Have a wonderful visit with your mom while she’s in town!
Sarah says
My Momma taught me to ignore the full laundry basket while the beds in my house are full- because soon enough the beds will be empty & so will the laundry basket- and i will miss them both :(.
Lizzie says
I learned from my mom to show and tell my kiddos how much I love them…and I still do that every day even though they are adults!
Jessica says
I am with you, ready for Summer…shorts, tanks, sundresses and flip flops are all ready washed and in the dressers!! . Now my body isn’t all that ready, still got to work on it!!
Momma taught me that you can never die from embarrassment (even though there are times you might think you are), embrace, celebrate and encourage the difference in each one of your children, and never under estimate the power of a praying mother!!
Sadly, it took me 32 years and 2 children to realize this!!
Teal says
My mom helped me learn to always make the ordinary extraordinary by giving it a simple twist. She’d sing the old song “Can’t Help Loving That Man of Mine” but change the lyrics to say “birds gotta swim/And fish gotta fly.” And it was “that’s the way the cookie bounces!” instead of boring old crumbles. 🙂
Babygirl says
Sometimes there is just nothing better than a night with mom, and a hallmark movie. they are my favorites!
Laura says
Love unconditionally. I learned that from my mom. Best and most important lesson.
I also love being “hugged” between needing my mom and being a mom. It’s kinda a special place. And I too, now that I am a mother, appreciate (and adore) my mom for what she did for me as a child.
Love that red suit!! =)
Laura says
I learned from my Mama to not be a complainer. People want to be around happy smiling people. She also still encourages me to be more open to make conversation with people I don’t know- the new mom at the park, the new family at church- she rocks at this. And it takes work for me. Im still learning from my mom!
Amy says
The favorite thing I learned from my mom-she says this because all her kids are grown “If you cook, they will all come” and it’s true. We love our Sunday dinners at mom’s house!
Amy says
My mom taught me to work hard, be generous, and do what is right even if it might not be popular. She gave up a lot for the four of us and I appreciate and love her very much.
Manda, Jerrame & Ryvr says
My favorite thing I learned from my mother has got to be that the little things mean the most…it is never too late for a thank you, a quick squeeze and kiss to say ‘I love you’, a simple act of kindness can brighten even the darkest day…all those little things add up to a spectacular woman who has braved and endured so much…that simple thank you packs more of a punch than she will ever know for being my mama!
Katie says
My mom taught me that kids grow up… so when the day is rough, and your exhausted, and you’ve said things you wish you hadn’t (and so have your kids)… they will grow out of that and so will you!
In Loving Memory of Charlotte says
I learned how to fight from my mom. Not fight as in throwing punches. Fight as in how to overcome obstacles and hurdles in my life. My mom went through some very difficult struggles in her life, but she always fought her way through them. She may not have come out on top, but she got through it with dignity and pride. In November of 2010 she was diagnosed with a rare cancer. The doctors told her she had 12-15 months to live. She fought, literally, for her life to get more than those months. She didn’t make it past the 15 month mark, but she fought as best she could. She faced this horrible disease with courage, grace, dignity and strength. Last week, my doctor found a lump in my breast. It was like finding out about my mom’s cancer all over again. But, I faced it with the same courage that she did. Thankfully it turned out to be benign. But watching her during her battle with cancer taught me how to face my own scare. She was a true inspiration and role model for me and I will never forget all that she taught me especially during the last 15 months of her life.
mamaoftwo says
To always work hard and do your best. I love my Mama.
Anne Lightner says
I myself love being in the middle part too between needing and being a Mom. I learn everything from my mom, when food goes bad, how to sew, what places have the best antiques, and best of all, she taught me how to be he best mother I can be to my kids. Loved your post. 🙂
Kate says
I’ve learned everything from my mom….she’s my best friend! She has taught me how to cook, clean, have a garden, canning what we can’t eat from the garden for the winter and most of all how to love her children and be there for them for anything and everything…from important days to those days where you just don’t know how you’re ever going to make it through…..that is my mom and what she has taught me and i’m so blessed and thank God for a mother like her!
Doobie says
She taught me, “Where there is a will, there is a way.”
Tracy says
to be yourself.. no matter what.. and I miss my momma..
E.M. says
My mom taught me to make the best decisions I can based off of the information I have at the moment. then move forward. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve shared that piece of advice/encouragement.
She also taught me to hug your mom tight, long, and often. Because even though I’m a grown woman, I’ll always be my mama’s baby. And God knows, Mama’s love hugs from their babies. 🙂
Sara says
I feel very blessed to have my mom to be close by now! She does not do a lot of homey things (that’s my grandmother’s specialty who is also close by) but she takes my girl any time she can! My mom taught me that people are more important than a clean house! She was always doing stuff with us, right in the thick of it and I want to be like that! Our house wasn’t usually a disaster that much but she didn’t do all the crazy cleaning that can become so obsessive!
Mrs. C says
LOVE my momma for her sweet words or praise every single day! Hope to be the best mom ever one day…
Hannah Joy says
Oooh pools! Flowers! We’re getting a taste up here, this week….cant wait for the real deal!
Rachel says
My mama taught me to crochet. I perfected my skill and made her a queen size blanket – which she promptly hung on the back of the couch in the room no one’s allowed to sit.
MDH says
The love of reading and how to throw an amazing party!!!! Love my mommy!!!!
CaseyA says
My mama taught me that spending time with family and friends and babies and kiddies is MUCH more important than having an immaculately clean house.
Bonnie says
What a great giveaway! I learned from my mom to give my all to my family… because that’s what she does every day.
Kendra says
I learned to make homemade spaghetti sauce from my mom! It rocks and is way better than the jar! 🙂
By the way, my daughter Marlee has the same polka-dot swimsuit…I love it!
Robyn says
I learned that it’s okay to be your own person and take time for yourself! You will be a better mom if you are fulfilled and happy!
fiestyred-head @ live.com
Sarah says
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Hilary says
My mama taught me to embrace adventure and the possibility that something magical can happen every day. We didn’t have tons of money growing up, but I remember feeling like we had tons of possibility: Leprechauns left a handful of chocolate gold coins on our pillowcases for St. Patty’s Day. We got half a cake (delivered with half of the “Happy Birthday Song”) on our half-birthdays. I still wake up most mornings feeling like, “Hmm..I wonder what fabulous thing will happen today?” And at the end of the day, I look around and can see the goodness in the simple, the magic in what might appear to be a mundane day. Thanks, Mom.
Sarah says
This comment has been removed by the author.
Tisha says
My mama teaches me everyday how to be selfless and think of others first.
Your mama taught me creativity and how to properly measure flour. She also introduced me to a magical place…goodwill! 🙂
give your mama a hug for me!
xoxo
Sarah says
My mom is pretty much the best person in the whole wide world, and she makes me want to be a better person everyday. One thing she taught me is the value of carving out quiet time for myself.
Autumn says
To keep on moving forward with great determination.
My mother raised my brother and I with an alcoholic husband for thirteen years until the day he punched her in the eye and she fought him with her tiny little Italian fists out the front door and never let him back in again. She got through college when we were young, waited tables and did whatever she could to better herself and our situation. When my little brother died two years ago, she kept going and I know every day is still a struggle for her. My mother worked so often when I was a teenager that I could be considered a latch key kid. I didn’t feel very close to her at the time and never really stopped to consider how hard it must have been for her to raise my brother and I with the father we had/the husband she had and then to be a single mother with two teenagers. One day I mentioned casually that I would be climbing a wall in gym class and then taking a zip line down. She showed up that day. I saw her from the top of the wall walking with the dog through a field of early spring dandelions. I think I realized then how much she really did love me, even if she was busy and a bit distant. I jumped off that wall, terrified of heights, and streamed down the zip line towards her. The only kid in high school with their mom watching and I wasn’t embarrassed. I was joyful.
Jessica @ One Shiny Star says
From my Mama I learned what it truly means to be selfless, though I didn’t fully understand until I had my own baby girl!
Karen says
My mom taught me how to clean…like a crazy person! 🙂
The Martha Complex says
I am going to go out on a limb and be honest… growing up (& even as an adult) I did not have a close relationship with my mom. The one thing I have learned from her though, is to be the kind of mom I wished I had as child and teen. In my house there is dinner at the table, hugs bedtime kisses. There are no ugly words that to hurt a tender heart’s soul.
I am proud to say that I broke the cycle and I am the mom I wish I had.
jamiafwife says
My mom taught me to be quick to love and forgive and not to worry about what others think.
dressesandmesses says
That everyone has good in them, and it’s my job to find it!
Have fun with yours this week!
Annie says
What I learned from my mom…
~Decorate for the seasons and holidays (makes our home and hearts feel happy and warm).
~Use a special celebration plate for a birthday dinner or an accomplishment at school or in sports.
~Read to your kids, especially part of a chapter book each night before bed.
So many more, this was a fun reflection to do – Happy March Kelle!
Bevin says
My favorite thing I’ve learned from my mom as an adult was that good wine and a good masseuse can make being a single adult completely bearable.
Sarah and Co says
My mom taught me to look at clouds and puddles and find beauty in every little thing…especially the “small things” 😉
Krysta says
My mom taught me how to cook the best carnitas known to man! I love that swimsuit! And that picture of you an Nella by the computer is one of my fav’s, for sure!
SRC says
I learned to be strong and independent. I learned that it’s not the amount of time you spend with your child, but the quality of that time that counts. I learned that a positive outlook can make all the difference. I love my mom…. and so does my daughter. The middle is a great place to be 🙂
everythingieverwanted says
I learned so much from my mother. She was so wise, and such an amazing teacher, but I think the most important thing I learned from my mother is that I can do anything I set my mind to. I learned to have confidence in myself and my abilities and to reach for my dreams. Both of my parents were very supportive and encouraging, but over the years I have learned that they both had very specific roles in my life. My mother was my coach, and my dad was my cheerleader. I loved them both and miss them both as they are both home with Jesus.
Dee says
My Mom taught me to never take “no” for an answer when you know that it should be “yes.”
Valerie says
My mama taught me how to be a mama!! I hope I have inherited a shred of the kindness, compassion, generosity and unconditional love that my mama has showered on me. My babies are now blessed enough to experience that beautiful, giant heart of hers!! And my husband loves that she taught me to cook!!!
Natalie says
I love the inspiration in this post! My Mom taught me to never wish for any phase of your child’s life to be over and done with (as in “I wish you would be done with these tantrums already!!!!”), because all too soon, their childhood will be over and they will be grown. As you always say, Enjoy every little thing!
Cassie R. says
My Mom taught me SO SO much, well she still teaches me things actually. She taught me to sew, and cook, and bake, and crochet, and to never dress trashy 🙂
shnyrdthng says
Glad you have your mama at home! I’m sure you’re making the most of it! <3
The Brown Family says
I absolutely love this post. I love being in that special middle place. It’s a great season to be in:)
My momma taught me that it’s not ok to worry about tomorrow, even though she does it constantly, and to love today because it’s the day that God chose us to have.
Sprouts Mommy and Daddy says
I learned from, of all people, my ex’s momma. She told me never to apologize for wanting to be happy, to know that I deserve respect and to be loved for exactly who I am – because who I am, is Amazing.
I miss that woman.
And Nella with the laptop? … you GO girl and your mad typin skillz!
Briana says
My mama is my best friend in the whole world. I don’t mean that in the ‘have to say that because she might read this’ sort of way. I mean in the way that I can tell her anything without fear of judgement, only the certainty of a gentle listening ear, and advice if I ask for it. I live 500 miles away from my home, but somehow, I can still catch a whiff of the vanilla-bubblegum-perfumy beauty even when we’re just catching up on the phone. My mama taught me to be genuine and raw. No better way to be.
Briana says
This comment has been removed by the author.
erinasmommy says
Besides all the love, nurture and life lessons that are typical to mamas, my mom taught us how to CLEAN, like really clean. Not that I do it like that all the time, nor do I require things that clean. But it’s the lesson of elbow grease and pride in your work…thnx mom.
The Moshells says
One thing (among the MANY), I LOVE about my mom is that everyday is a fun day! Whether we were home, or out and about it was good times to be had. And it totally carries over to the grands. 🙂
The Hunter's Prize says
My mom taught me so many things, as I was homeschooled, but I would love to learn how to make cookies like she does.
Janet says
I miss my Mom, she passed away when my now 12 year old was just 6 months old. She was the bestest grandma!
Kalee says
My mom-in-law told my husband and I not to sweat the small stuff when we were first married, and I’ve repeated that mantra many-a-time throughout our 5 years, avoiding a few petty arguments in the process:).
Issas Crazy World says
To always tell people how much you love them. To really see your kids for who they are, instead of who you thought they’d be. To enjoy their smallness, because it doesn’t last. To cook from scratch when possible. To give yourself room to fail. To read to even the smallest babies. To take some time for myself.
Monica says
Oh how I would love me one of those swimsuits! What have I not learned from my Mama, I guess the greatest lesson I can think of is ‘be yourself, no one else, and don’t apologies for being you.’
Jeanie says
This one made me a little teary-eyed. My mom was the best cook and made the best pies ever. How she got her crusts so flaky, I’ll never know. She’s been gone five and a half years now and is so missed. Give your mom a little extra kiss and hug, k?
Cynthia says
I learned that a mom accepts and loves you with open arms, in all of your choices, even when no one else does.
Cathy says
My mom taught me how to be a mom.
TRB Holt says
My mother helped shape me into the mother and grandmother I am today….thanks Mom, miss you tons!
xoxo to you Kelle!
Bug & Ruby’s Gram
J says
I truly didn’t appreciate my mom until I had kids of my own and although not the greatest of mothers she soared when it came to her grandchildren. Now that she is no longer here with us, my greatest lesson is just to be present for my children and grandchildren, always present and loving.
Mommy Brain says
I learned how to set goals and achieve them and find great satisfaction in doing that. How to be a leader and how look at life and see sunshine no matter what!
kcolquitt says
Sister also has mad “pinkies up” skills.
Something my mom taught me, though I never learned it until I became one, is that it’s far better to be the good mom than the cool one.
Michelle says
My mama-dearest taught me so many things to make life more beautiful- patience, love, gratitude…but she has such big shoes to fill that if I could only have 1 trait of hers, it would be giving my babies what she has given me!
The Radine Family says
My mom was never really around much always working even when she didn’t have to. We were raised by housekeepers. But from that I learned that time goes by too quickly. I learned to be there for my children and support everything they do. instead of making work a priority and missing the baseball game I do the opposite. I haven’t missed one game and I show up all cheesy with a shirt that has my sons name and any other embarassing thing you can think of. So what I learned is make time. Always no matter what because it is important to your children and one day when they are grown you will have missed all the important things in life. Gotta learn to turn a negative into a positive. Learn from the bad take in the good.
Jennifer says
I learned how to always put your kids first. My mom definitely did that!
Cathy says
my mother taught me…suck in your stomach, stand up straight and put on a little color…also take food to people when they are sick, go to church and love your husband.
emmiewyatt says
I learned (and continue to learn) so much from my mother…. my favorite two things are:
“if you’re gonna go…go BIG!” and “if you DO go…do it for yourself, not for anyone but yourself.”
Allie says
The best thing my mother taught me is that time is better than anything you can give your children. They are going to remember the walks, baking lessons, board games, etc…over anything you buy them. It’s so true.
Irene says
I am sooooooo ready for swimsuit weather! Would love a new suit!
mamamac says
my mom taught me that there is never a “right” time to have kids. something will always be going on that will tell you that it isn’t a good time. if you want it then you need to jump right in and do it. and im glad i took her advice 🙂
Jane says
I have learned so much from my Mom but I think I appreciated her so much more after I became a Mom. I know what kind of sacrifices she made for us. I also have learned that you are never too old to want or need your Mama! And my kids know that too!
JF says
my mom taught me that you should stick with one candle scent from yankee candles and always light them in your home, that way you have a smell that means “home.”
so great and it still brings me comfort to this day!
Lyndsey says
I learned it is okay and actually good to treat myself to a splurge once in awhile. A book I have been wanting, a rich dessert, a good drink, or that adorable top/shoes/necklace/etc.
Cheryl says
My mom taught me to care about others and that it is important to help people out and to always be there for your friends. She also taught me to be a good listener, and to stand up for what I believe in. To dream big and never give up.
Laura Beth says
I LOVE that suit!! I have been stalking it online. One of my favorite things Mama taught me is to turn the pillows so the case openings are facing out. To this day I cannot sleep if I know the pillow is turned the wrong way…
Mangwood says
My mom was only 58 but was in the throes of Alzheimer’s by the time my children were born. So while I never got to be in that “middle place”, she taught me how to give myself completely to my children, to take them camping, and to love Jesus.
Unknown says
I love your blog. And your children. They just are so cute. Anyway, the biggest thing I have taken from my mom, since recently becoming a mom myself, is that it is perfectly okay that my biggest life desire is to be a mom. It’s just such an important role and I love it so much.
Debbie T. says
I learned how to make the best Mac and cheese, how to bargain shop, be a hostess to a large group, and how to love from my mom!
April says
I remember sitting and listening to my grandma and mom talk, loving the sound of their voices and the fact that they never ran out of things to say. I love talking to my mom this way too. And I imagine my own daughter being part of our conversations one day…learning about relationship through favorite stories, new ideas, and lots of love and acceptance.
Tracy Williams says
I learned to love my kids whole heartedly. To never put possessions above your family. To love nature and God. And most importantly, to be strong and confident! I love my Momma!
Jamie says
I have learned so very much from my sweet mom. Perhaps the most important, or most relevant lately, is to see the best in my son. I love him, of course I love him, but seeing my mom as a grandmother and seeing how she loves him so completely allows me to look at him through her eyes (and nearly ignore his tiny flaws).
jean says
My dear mother taught me that beauty is from the inside out! and so much more!
Amy @ Feathered Friendsy says
My mom taught me exactly what you write about – to find joy in the every day. I spent the first half of last year helping my mom to enjoy what she had left after an unexpected, rapidly progressing cancer diagnosis. From April-August of 2011, I think I learned more from her than I had in the 24 years prior.
The BIGGEST lesson she taught me though is that no one will ever lie on their deathbed wishing they’d worked more or loved less.
Enjoy the time you have with your Mama. Give her a hug from all of us who desperately miss our moms but rejoice in other great moms.
rmarief says
I learned from my mom that it’s ok to let your children make mistakes and learn from those mistakes and not be judgemental but to be sure that you are there to dole out the hugs and kisses they may need.
Jen says
I enjoy your blog always, but I love love love the ones that include your family. I think because I too, am growing more and more appreciative of my own family, and realizing all the sacrifices my Mom made for us, and knowing that she would still do anything we ask. I learned from my Mama to enjoy this time, when my kids are small. Even though it’s hard and exhausting, and I sometimes feel like I make mistakes, she is there, assuring me that I’m doing great. I hope I can be like her one day.
Court says
One thing I learned from my mother: ALWAYS. BE. PREPARED. I swear, that lady has everything but the kitchen sink in her purse!
Lyndsay says
My Mom taught me to be a hard worker, and I love her for it. 🙂 Cute suit; I may just buy one w/o even winning. 😉
carisa says
my mom taught me that love is all you need! and don’t just love, love hard!!! love in the good, the bad & the ugly. especially love hard in the bad & the ugly!!! love so hard that it carries you through, because ” all you need is love!”
Java says
I learn how to cook from my Momma who happens to live right next door! She is my best friend and I wouldn’t know what its like without her!
I would LOVE a new swimsuit as I haven’t had a new one in several years because I always seem to buy for my kids before myself! I have 4 boys! 🙂
Love your blog Kelle!!
Hugs.
Java
Ellen says
I learned to love myself and to take care of myself. I learned it’s ok to put myself on the priority list!
Sara Jakobs says
I would just LOVE a swimsuit!
My mum taught me endurance, to not give up and the knowledge that everything and anything is possible. That i could become whatever i wanted.
And she also has some mad baby skills..those i carry with me everyday with my two little girls.
kshearer says
I learned to love. To be kind, patient, strong, happy, and best of all, how to laugh.
Sharon-The OKI StampQueen says
sadly, I learned what I don’t want to be like when I grow up…but alas, that’s a lesson, too—hard to overcome-but each day I work a little more at it…knowing, if nothing else, I will achieve the goal in the great beyond…
The Legers says
I LOVE Popina! I got my suit from their store last year in Portland and I finally have a suit I L-O-V-E and feel awesome in.
Mine is red, too. But, I would love to have another, maybe yellow!
My mom always cooked for us, and I am glad that she instilled that in me. The love she put into our home-cooked meals was felt, and I try to do the same when cooking for my kiddos every night.
erin says
to let the little things go, and that i am too old for drama.
StaceyB says
Oddly enough, my mother taught me indirectly. Unfortunately, my mother has dealt with clinical depression all of my life. When I was young, I just thought that’s the way everyone’s mom was. I didn’t understand. As I got older, and began to understand more, through my mother’s pain I learned how to handle things and be strong. I am blessed not to have the battles that she has had her entire life with depression but through her daily battles, I learned how important it was to LIVE life, embrace your loved ones, smile when you want to thump that rude clerk’s ear, etc. Life is too short to be sad.
Danielle says
this post made me reflect on being a momma and a daughter. Love that I can be both
JenandAsh says
My mom supported us and cheered us on no matter what our talents were and no matter what we chose to do. I love that and I hope I can do the same.
She’s a great mom and an even better Grandma!
Happy Haley House says
my mom taught me to love to bake and to always have the kids help too. there is nothing better than baking with love and that is what my little boys give baking, love. she taught me to be a strong mom, but never miss the opportunity to snuggle and kiss whenever possible. my mom taught me that it’s ok to always need your mom and that as you grow up, you mom can become your friend. she taught me just how lucky i am to have all i have in my life.
Lace Escapades says
My mother taught me that while I should be strong and keep my chin up, it’s also okay to cry. It’s because of her that I learned the value of a good, long cry before you pick yourself up and dust yourself off. Lessons from her like that have helped make me stronger and more confident as the person I am.
(She also taught me how to make a mean pot of chocolate pudding!)
The Katanicks says
how to make the best turkey and dressing in the south. How to know and trust God and most importantly how to forgive.
Thanks for the warm and fuzzy post!
Tara n Mike says
My Mom has taught me to take on a challenge head first 🙂 She is fierce!
Melody says
I am in that Middle place as well. My oldest just turned 13 in January and I’m finding that I love being able to call my mom and ask her how she dealt with a teenage girl. Her response is always a full bodied laugh and… “It’s the mothers curse my love. She’s just like you.”
JR says
My mom chose not to be around while I was growing up. And because of this, I learned to be the exact opposite for my kids. I learned how to break a vicious cycle. And while I am sad it had to be that way, I’m thankful for the drive and ambition it taught me.
Michelle says
Oh wow…. My mom has taught me everything and everyday I and reminded of her more and more through my actions. I have learned how to put others first, always be on time, keep the commitments you make. She has passed on her love of making things and simple, yet delicious cooking. She is amazing and writing this makes me miss her dearly. I think I’ll call her now to say thank you 🙂
Kimberly says
My momma was also in town this week! Is there anything I DIDN’T learn from my mom?? She’s incredible. My best girlfriend. A Super-Woman of the highest order. One of the most precious things I’ve learned from her is how to love selflessly and unconditionally – when I think of all the nights she went without sleep just to hear me whine into the wee hours of the morning over some boy-drama or other teenage nonsense, I’m blown away. The way she loves my dad (her husband of 32 years), me, and my brothers never ceases to amaze me 🙂
Lindsey says
My mama taught me how NOT to be a mama! Fortunately, my aunt was there to pick up the slack. The greatest thing she has taught me is that family is everything. If one of them needs you, you drop everything and go. She also taught me to make a mean rum cake, and how to eat most of it before anyone else gets home. 😉
Jamie says
I learned from mine to always be there…and that the term “over-protective” is non-existent when it comes to your kids.
Farmgirl Paints says
I learned that Jesus loves me…yes he does;) Love the suit girl. You rocked it movie star.
Olivia's Mommy says
I was just thinking about this today. I absolutely love that my daughter loves music. All kinds of music and right now she is so into classical/opera…and I am so grateful for my friend’s mother who stretched my music knowledge and I have been able to pass that down to my daughter. Right now she is hooked on anything Andrew Lloyd Webber and I am digging it!
JGeary says
I learned to love…and to make something out of anything. My mom was a mad recycler before it was cool. That faded twin sheet would be a tablecloth, a pillowcase, some doll dresses, etc. I can’t imagine my world or my children’s world with out her in it….
Eloise says
I just had my 3rd child, a little girl on 2/2 and my mom has been so helpful…there is not enough words out there to say how thankful I am…my mom is my best friend I hope some day I can possess one of her best traits and that is her positive outlook…she is my sounding board and can always turn any stressful situation into a peaceful postive situation…I hope that I can do the same for my 3!
PS…love the suit and I am certainly hoping to find a suit that works this summer post having a baby!!
Nikki Beth says
I am a new Kelle follower, and may I just say, in the short week you’ve been a part of my life you and your beautiful girls (and beautiful words) have changed me indeed. Within the past week, you’ve inspired me to begin writing my own blog, I’ve given to Nella’s 2for2 fund (while it was a modest gift as to I’m a grad student), and I’ve ordered precious earrings suggested by you from onedelightfulbutton.com (and thanks for that by the way! Katie is doing a custom order for my bridesmaids now.)
Thank you for helping me remember all that I have to be thankful for, and for helping me see that no matter what hand life deals us, enjoying the small things should always be a part of how we play our cards 🙂
Ashley says
Great post! and I am in love with these suits!
Libbi says
This was my favorite post so far!
And I LOVE all of your posts.
Thank you from the bottom of my mama heart.
Jackie says
Perfect timing… I was trying to recall the name of the swimsuits the other day so I could have a look!
My mum taught me to put your children first – to not be selfish!
Wendy says
I learned how to mend or sew anything & everything from my mom, who learned from her mom. I am grateful for that! I can fix things others would simply throw out or give away.
Williams Family says
My mom has taught me so much, but perhaps the most important is to always take charge of your life. She’s lived a difficult life and faced so many challenges, but she never feels sorry for herself. She’s always just rolled up her sleeves and asked herself “what can I do about this?” And she always finds a way to improve her situation. I cannot begin to explain how much this inspires me.
Wendy says
I learned how to mend or sew anything from my mom. Loved all photos in this post!
theshooz says
I learned that you can do anything you have to for short period of time, especially when there’s an end date in sight. I also learned the importance of just “being”.
A day in the Life... says
My Mom taught me to always wear clean underwear because you never know when you will get into a car accident!
Jess says
I learned from my momma how to be best friends. And how to be happy with what you have. And how to make things work. She’s the best ever.
Wenona says
Love this post! Moms are so special 🙂
My mom taught me how to take care of a family, to bake bread, cook healthy meals from scratch, and to show love no matter what.
I love my mommy 🙂
myonlysunshine says
I learned it is okay to get dirty and have fun making dirt pies!
Tara Michaels says
DIDDO!!! I have been trying to put this so eloquently for a little while now, you took the words right out of my heart…”hugged between needing a mom and being a mom, still learning and taking and yet teaching and giving at the same time. As I watch my girls whisper to their own baby dolls, wrapping them up in whatever they can find for blankets, kissing their heads, gently toting them along on our trips and attending to them in the car, I can only smile and be assured that the cycle will continue.
P.S. I have been eyeballing Popina for over a year now hinting to my hubby how adorable I think they are, but sigh, even with the 15% they are way out of my price range….but someday maybe 🙂
Sarah says
The best thing I learned from my mom… Unconditional love!
PPP says
I learned from my momma that NO ONE can love you like she does. I thank God everyday for her, and because of her, I am full of love. <3
Iv says
I learned that every moment is a teaching moment. Love the post! And the suits 🙂
Amy Ashby says
Unconditional love, cooking & housecleaning 101, and how to be a great mom! That’s just a few of the things my mom has taught me. I’m still learning. . . everyday!
Love, love, love the picture of Nella at the computer. So precious! 🙂
Laura says
I learned that you are never to old to crawl in your momma’s lap while she strokes your hair and tells you everything will be alright…and in that moment, I know that it will be. Thanks for the inspiring post!!
Katie says
I learned from my mama to trust my instinct. My mom always goes with her gut and she’s always right. I also learned to love and give and live with all I got.
Megan says
Too many things to even begin to count! Some of my favorites are sending love notes (to hubby AND the littles), taking time to celebrate and start new traditions, to care well for your friends- in good times and in bad. 🙂
Ellie D says
The most important things in life, I learned not from my mom, and not even someone who is a mom herself, but is yet a mother to me in her own way. My choir director taught me how to trust someone, how to be open and honest, and what love in a family ought to look like. For that, I am forever grateful.
Anonymous says
I learned how to savor the beauty in the unexpected. And I learned it from Nella’s mom.
talamarieb says
My mom…she taught me to let a boy pay on a date, and to travel when I could, and to cry if I needed. I love her.
Kenzie Rice says
Such a sweet post. You look so much like your mom!
My amazing mama has taught me to love other people. To serve them with an unselfish heart. And most importantly to love God with everything inside of me. Because that’s when ill know true love.
PS totally diggin’ your swim suit. going to order one from Popina tomorrow!
Lindsey says
From my mom I learned that money doesn’t equal happiness. That sometimes the best treasures are found at garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment sales. I learned to always tell the people I love that I love them, because they could be gone the next day. AND I learned how to be strong by watching her make the most of all the situations of her life.
P.S. LOVE that suit!!
amber says
my mom taught me everything!
i think that sums it up. 😉
Lesli Temple says
My mama taught me how to have patience! This is the one thing I always try to remember, and make sure I have when with my babies and ones I love!
Unknown says
My mom taught me to be open-minded. She’s about to visit us to take care of my kids while I become a surrogate for 2 wonderful guys. I’m so happy she’s proud of me!
Little Luna says
From my mama: Protect your reputation, it’s hard to get back. Also, women can be strong (she was a single mom).
Sarah says
I learned that when it snows, you must cook casseroles and bake like crazy, an impromptu party is the best, nothing new is as good as something old remade and reading is the best pastime ever.
jennifer says
My mom taught me that if you want to be successful you have to work for it.
Bobbi says
To love with out conditions. Is the best lesson my mama ever taught me.
Julie-Ann says
I am the seventh of eight children, thus my mother has lots of experience mothering many different types of children. A piece of insight that has always struck me was that she knew she could never be the perfect mother, but by golly she was going to be the best mother her kids had! Now that I have three daughters, I see what she means. There are many women who seem to do much a better job with their children. I can only focus on doing my best with my girls everyday and ultimately, everything will turn out in the end.
spiritedmama1 says
I heart your blog. You bring happy tears. I loooovve your red costume.
My mom and I have a difficult relationship however my Gran and I share an unbreakable bond! She taught me to knead dough, bake and even bake bread. My mother-in-law taught me to hug, hug and hug some more. (My mother is not very good with emotions – hence why it was a struggle for me too.) This all changed when I became a mom. I can cudlle my son all day!
Kathleen says
I could write a book on the things I have learned from my mama but the main things that come to mind right now are to be independent and teach your children the right tools to become independent, to root for the underdog, have compassion, to laugh at yourself and most importantly be true to who you really are regardless of what the rest of the world will think. I love my Mom.
Kelly says
My mama has taught me that treasuring family and friendships is the beauty we can all enjoy no matter where we are in this journey in life! She also taught me (and I now try to show my boys) that writing thoughtful thank you notes can be quite fun!
(and love the suit! I bought one last year after you talked about it and it is one comfortable fashionable suit!)
Wilcoxen says
I have been blessed with not only a great mom, but a great a mother-in-law as well. From my mom, I have learned to keep persevering, even when life is hard. Life has thrown her some hard shots, but she presses on. My mom-in-love (as she calls herself) has taught me to be intentional. We live so far (not sure we could live any farther and still be on the same planet), but every month she sends the kids each a book. She dubs it “Grandma’s book club” and through this, they remember her. When we call, they talk about the books and sometimes even read them to her over Skype. I only hope that I can be these examples to my children and their children and spouses down the road.
(Last year, I also ordered a Jantzen Vamp suit. . . it is a favourite!)
Sarah
Christine Gottemoller says
This post was so timely for me. My mom just left from a visit earlier last week. While I am so sad that we live so far away I am blessed that she taught me to be the kind of mom that boosts her kids up when they need it and that sacrifices daily of herself for her children. Even more, she instilled in me the importance of not projecting my dreams upon my girls, but turning their dreams into mine.
Gretchen A. McNally says
I absolutely LOVE your red swimsuit! It looks great on you.
=)
Katie says
I learned to be patient and kind and gentle, to never give up, to be a strong and independent woman, and a woman who gives amazing hugs. People say I’m just like my mom….something I am proud to hear.
The Mommy Therapy says
Nothing compares to a visit from Mom. Love.
I learned that you often feel better when you get dressed and brush your hair, kindness reigns, and nothing beats the pure bliss of dominoes at the kitchen table with your family.
StrongMomma says
Hi Kelle,
Your mom is beautiful like you!
From my best friends mom I learned that there is such a thing as a real family, one that can have fun and love for real with no hurt.
I cannot even put on print in just a few words how much I value that.
xxoo Love, love, love your photo’s and stories. 🙂
Pumpkin Butters says
Honestly my childhood was not perfect. My mother and I had our ups and downs. I feel like the best thing I learned from my mother were the mistakes not to make with my own children. Just like you learn from your own mistakes, I think you learn from the mistakes that people around you make. I know I will never be a perfect mother, but I will try my hardest and hope that my babies will learn from my mistakes.
Spicy Ginger Muse says
Love! Love! Love! 🙂
Taylor says
I love that Lainey saved her special blanket for her Grandma to fix! So precious! She looks so happy and proud to be baking together. 🙂
Heather Catherine says
I learned from my mom to take good care of the people you love and to always be selfless, not selfish. I learned that from my grandma, too. I still remember when grandma cooked meals, she wouldn’t eat with us. She would make sure everyone ate and finished first. My mom does the same thing.
Brooke says
that suit is gorgeous. i love my mama. she is my best friend. one of the many things i learned from her is patience. she is the most patient person in the world. never quick to anger.
CurlyQ says
I learned from my Momma to bake with her. This past Christmas I started baking with my son who will be 3 soon. He loves it and it bring back all those childhood memories I have of my Mom. I love it!
The Buchanan Family says
I learned how to cook from my granny-once a week she would come over and show me something new!
Joanna says
I love the way my mom makes me feel. It doesn’t matter how far away she is or the bad day I’ve had. Her words make it better and her make it all make sense. Its a talent I believe she’s cultivated over time and broken hearts.
Emily says
So so many things, it’s hard to choose … for now, teaching my kids to read, love books, etc. I remember reading with my mom, and love carrying on the tradition with my two girls.
Happiness is... says
I adore you commentary about being in the middle – still learning from your mama, but still being a mama. With my mom gone, I have to remember what she taught me and to be strong and to know that she’s walking with me every day; even if it means I can’t hear her read stories to Alex or taste my favorite foods prepared by her. It’s all good – better to have loved and lost and be given the best example of love while I had her in my life. It makes me appreciate life SO. MUCH. MORE.
Enjoy every moment. I only can imagine that your mom is a spectacular person. Blessings carry.
🙂 Jennifer
Sara Korber-DeWeerd says
Where do I begin. I learned how to be a woman, a wife, a mom, a friend from my mom. I learned how to cook, how to love, how to mend broken hearts, how to forgive and move on. I learned beauty is an inside thing and being a woman is a gift. She taught the four of us girls to be independent and motivated and strong. She taught us to fight and to heal and to above all to laugh.
Hidalina says
My mom taught be there is nothing to hard or impossible to achieve..after giving birth and finding out that Amalia was born with Down Syndrome she took her in her arms and told me..life would not be rewarding without its challenges, that is when we know our strength and faith..Plus my mom makes a fantastic meal parties..
Mellisa says
My mom has taught me to be patient and to love unconditionally. She has the biggest heart and wants the best for everyone.
Rachelle says
I learned what unconditional love is, to live one day at a time and not “borrow trouble from tomorrow”, and most importantly that being a mother is the most precious gift I will ever be given.
whentheraincomes says
Learned( still trying to learn) to respect my husband like my mom does my dad!
Susanne says
i learned to be patient (well, still learning to be more specific!)
Tessa says
I love that bathing suit! Those vintage styles are just the right blend of modest and sultry. Have a great weekend!
Heather says
Oops! Left my comment on the wrong post!!! Ill leave a little something here 🙂 You are such a great mom!! Happy to keep reading your story. Looking so forward to my pre-ordered book to arrive at my door!!
Kim S says
I learned that your mom is your best friend. Often if I got hurt or others upset me when growing up, I could always turn to my mom for the best girl talk or advice. She truly is my BFF!!!! And I hope my daughter will be mine one day too, 🙂
Elizabeth M. says
Aren’t moms the greatest?:)
Jeff and Jocelyn says
I think I learned that after a pretty rocky relationship with my mom- cycles can change. The words of affirmation and pride and verbal I love yous I longed for growing up are now showered on my own boys from my mom. I am so thankful I married a man that taught me how to shower our boys with words of love and pride! My mom was a single mom and raised me with a crazy sense of independence and strength!
Apey Lee's Homespun Designs says
I always wonder what type of grandmother I’ll be as I constantly critique and revisit the type of mom I am now. I hope that I have given and will continue to give my children their “Manual of Life” so that they may succeed later on.
Ellen says
I love your blog, I am inspired by your ability to find beauty and joy in EVERYTHING! Your mom really did teach you to enjoy the small things. Your daughters are absolutely adorable.
My mother is my best friend, it wasn’t always this way but it is now and she is the first person I turn to when I need help. She is amazing. And she taught me how to be strong. To push forward no matter what the challenge and to love others while doing so.
My entire life she suffered from depression, something that I don’t think a lot of people really understand but through it all she loved her kids and she tried always to serve others. There were bad days but I never think of those when I think of my mother. She taught me how to be strong and faithful. She is amazing and I can’t love her more.
Mike and Esther says
I learned to be productive, set goals, and pray always.
Unknown says
going to spend the day with my mama and my boys. 🙂 thanks for making me appreciate her even more.
Jen says
As I looked at the picture with lainy and her grandmother, I got excited by Lainy’s apron, as it is the exact one I can see hanging on the hook by my kitchen. Nothing like vintage aprons to make you want to bake and cook.
Jayme says
My mom has taught me so much, but what stands out is her southern hospitality. I want to always make people feel welcome and loved. As I become a parent this year, her love and guidance means even more to me.
By the way, bought my first swimsuit from Popina last year and love it!
The Hayes Zoo says
Kelle – You’ve been SUCH a support even when I didn’t know I was going to need your story. Our youngest was born in October with DS. I read Nella’s story almost a year and a half before hand and seriously, the MOMENT they said, “Your baby shows some markers for Down Syndrome…”, I thought of you. You were the FIRST to breath beauty into a really, freakin’ scary moment. Thank you….
As to what I’ve learned from my mom? A love for beauty. My definitions are my own…but beauty; loving it and embracing it came from her example.
Your. red. suit. is. awesome.!!!
Alexis says
My mama taught me to be true to who you are. She is my best friend and I am so blessed to call her my mom!
Mrs Scratch says
I’ve learned how to be finanicially responsible from my mom. She’s amazing.
Bridget says
Love your suit and all your posts!
greilotus says
I’m not trying to kill the happy mood, however, if I’m being honest, I’ve learned from my mom that alcohol should never ever take the place of your responsibilities, children and grandchildren. My mom has been an alcoholic all my life and I have decided to keep my distance. My kids don’t need to see her the way I’ve seen her. She has actually taught me how to be a good momma by doing the opposite, and I suppose there will come a time when I can be grateful to her for that…
Ana says
This is such a sweet post!
M. Larson says
My mom taught me that babies are absolutely the most precious things on earth.
harpergirls6 says
Seriously LOVE reading your blog! A hot cup of coffer and some Enjoying the Small Things……there is no better morning routine!
tablerbunch says
My mom taught me to be kind, do everything you can for others and most of all to love with every ounce of my being. I’m 35 and she is still teaching me daily.
Cailey says
For me, it’s how to make good pasta sauce. It’s an Italian thing, and I am proud to know the way I make it is the same as my grandmother’s, and mother’s, but with my own twist!
Sarah says
“The Pie Queen” that’s my mama! I view my mom in much the same way you view yours. It’s beautiful and I can only hope that my stepchild and future children look at me the way I look at my mother!
Happy St. Patty’s Day Weekend! Don’t forget to wear green or you’ll get pinched!
Kelly B. says
Cooking. For sure. Just simple little tricks that I wouldn’t have known otherwise… how to thicken gravy, etc.
Unknown says
Love thephoto of Nella typing away 🙂
My Mum taught me it is never too late for a career. At 50 she went to college to gain her nursing degree, it was what she always wanted but couldn’t commit to the training until I was old enough.
She is an inspiration to me and many of my friends that it isn’t to late to find your dream job.
Elleah says
The most important thing my Mom taught me is to love Jesus. She passed on a faith legacy that I am SO thankful for!
Wesley says
My mom taught me to be compassionate and independent, to love nature and to trust that even in hard times – you’ll always pull through and be stronger because of it.
LaurenJo says
My mama taught me to be quick to forgive, how to be a green thumb, how to love, and how to go mushroom pickin’. After watching my dad battle cancer for 10 years, she also taught me patience, perseverance, courage, and unconditional love.
Sherry says
My mother was persistant in ensuring I was curteous, kind and pleasant and yet not a pushover! She taught me to simply be respectful of others and root for the underdog in life.
Lynne says
What I learned from my mom – who, sadly, passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2001 at the much too young age of 62 –
how to make the best chocolate chip cookie bars in the entire world.
Cathy says
I need a new suit! My momma taught me to look on the positive side. And to love those little guys like no other! 🙂
Shoni says
My mom taught me to do whatever it takes for your children. Sacrifice everything if you have to. Move mountains if you have to. Swim the ocean to bring peace to a family.
Love. And then Love some more.
walker(dot)shondra(at)yahoo(dot)com
Dylan'sMommy316 says
I think your new suit is the best one I’ve seen yet!!
I don’t think I could name one thing I’ve learned from my Mom because she’s taught me so much. If I had to say something..it’s how to be as amazing a Mom for my son as she was for my brother and I.
Fab40 says
My mom taught me to hear the other side of the story before getting angry. It’s worked well most of the time.
I’ve enrolled in photography classes to learn how to take wonderful pictures like you do. Thanks for inspiring me!
Beth Vrabel says
From my mama I learned that to take care of my children, I need to honor their mother’s needs.
Wheaty says
I learned good things from my mom, things that so many girls from my generation never learned. How to cook, bake, clean, do laundry, take care of children – how to keep a house. For that (while watching my newly married friends struggle with simple things), I will be eternally grateful. And now that I have my own children, not a day goes by that I don’t call my mom for some sort of child-rearing advice.
easypeasyjapaneasy says
I learned to love and find joy in sewing from my mom.
Laurel says
Oh please, pick me! My post-baby self NEEDS a Popino’s suit!
Aleyta says
My mom taught me to travel and see the world. And take my child with me 🙂
Aly says
She taught me how to put the sheets on the bed so when you fold them over, the right side shows.
acarlso3 says
my mom taught me to fix your mistakes.
dag2dag says
from my mum i learned how to be strong and efficient, and still loving and nurturing. one never has to cancel out the other
Julie says
From my grandma and also mom…how to make the worlds best strawberry pie. Works with even store bought berries but I like it best when I pick them myself. My daughter can’t make the pie yet (she is 21) but my 15 year old son can!
Julie says
From my grandma and also mom…how to make the worlds best strawberry pie. Works with even store bought berries but I like it best when I pick them myself. My daughter can’t make the pie yet (she is 21) but my 15 year old son can!
Ky says
My mama taught be how to be a lady.
Elena says
My amazing mom taught me to love unconditionaly and be independent.
Caitlin says
I was going to comment anyway, but now that I see there’s a swimsuit contest it’s even better! My mom has taught me to stand up for myself, to be fair and honest, and, yes, to make a mean pie. She quizzed me on spelling and always corrected (corrects) my grammar. She showed me what it means to be a successful kickass woman in a male-dominated profession. And I know that, when the time comes, she’ll be an awesome grandma.
Claire @ Scissors Paper Rock says
Enjoy having your Mama there Kelle. Soak up all the Grandparent-loving, pie-eating goodness of having her around.
My Mother taught me about hard work & why we do it, that family means everything and that traditions are what makes us excited about holidays, events & life!!
I love my Mum!
x
Caitlin Weaver says
Wow, I LOVE that bathing suit. Hmm what has my mother taught me? To enjoy the short years that your children are young. To not let life get too busy.
cbakertroublemaker@hotmail.com
Julie Nickerson says
Oh, I love those suits! I bought the yellow one last year after seeing you in it. However, I will have a nice baby bump this summer. Do they offer maternity style ones?
Best things from my mom: how to love and be selfless.
Sarah Fox says
I learned (in middle school, while crying over some drama) that boys will come and go, but good girlfriends will stick around. 20 years later, I just got done hanging with my friend that was involved in the drama, and that boy is long forgotten. I would love to pull off that rad red suit you’re wearing, Kelle!
Jenna says
My Mom has been here for the past 2 weeks to help as I recover from the birth of my third baby. At this point in my life, I don’t know what I would do without her here right now. She’s kept my house running, my older kids entertained, bathed and dressed, laundry done…oh, how I love her. She has this perfect quiet strength about her that I hope to have someday.
ACE says
Oh I learned so much from my mom! She’s actually here right now, helping me get my house in order to sell it, and it’s such a blessing, her presence! I learned how to clean my house really good, and i learned how to love reading, and i learned how to love the Lord.
Katie Waters says
By far, one of the best things I learned from my mother was to talk to the janitor the same way you would talk to the President. Be humble and real in all situations, and with everyone.
Kelly says
I have learned so much from my mom; she is one of my best friends. Some of the most important things are quiet devotion to family, making your child/children a priority in life, and loving your children unconditionally.
Clark Family says
My mom always taught me to do my best. No one can ever expect anything more. It brought me so much comfort growing up when I wasn’t the best at something…. As long as I did MY best. Now I teach that to my kids, and the students I teach.
Colin and Jess says
I learned from my momma–that it’s okay to “step in cow doodoo”. Literally and metaphorically. Shake it off and move on.
Amy says
How to let the small, unimportant, insignificant things go.
love looking back to her and forward to them. Also my favorite view in the house.
ArtsyMagnet says
My momma taught me how to love and how to make homemade potato soup. Equally important 🙂
Candace says
Beautiful post – your mom is awesome and those pies made my mouth water!
My mom taught me how to clean.
Susie says
This post made me shed a little tear. I recently became a Mama after almost 5 years of praying to become as wonderful as my own Mama has been. Still not sure if I ever will be but I sure have some good example to follow 🙂 God added a little something extra to the recipe when he created Mama’s!
kdactyl says
I read this post and felt all the love and warmth you are experiencing with your mama in town coupled with my own sadness that my mother passed away before I ever had children. Oh how she would have loved that…and oh how I would have love that middle place you speak of. to name just one memorable/important thing my mom taught me would be impossible….so I will just honor her memory by proclaiming that my mother, Kathleen was an awesome mom and I miss her terribly. You and your girls are soooo lucky to have her and I love how you appreciate it and don’t take her for granted….because as we all know, life is full of the unexpected. Enjoy your visit.
Karaleen
Miranda says
Oh how I’m jealous of Florida! We still have snow, so no outdoor swimming happening here ;).
skoots1mom says
i learned to love God first and foremost…then family and friends…He will NEVER leave me, neither will my mom’s love…love all your pics 🙂
Katherines Corner says
yes, that’s what mama’s do Hugs and happy weekend wishes! Katherine Corrigan ( heading over to Kelly’s site, I wonder if we are related)
Sarah says
Love the pie baking!!! That is one thing that my mother and grandmother shared with me and that I love to now share with my little family. Coconut cream pie is our specialty but your mixed berry and apple pies look amazing! I loved baking with my mom and watching her put on her makeup as I sat on the toilet seat in the bathroom. My mom has so much love to give and is super sweet, just wish she wasn’t so far away. We live all the way in California and she is on the east coast in Massachusetts. Love visiting and having her come out to see us too.
mrszimm says
I learned that brokenness doesn’t have to define who you are. Very strong woman, my Momma.
Jessica says
My mom taught me a love of music, the importance of family, and of faith. She’s coming from across the country for my little’s 1st birthday next week and we’re so excited to have here her. P.S. Love the suit.
Stephanie says
I’ve learned that you are capable of doing things. That being said, I’m the only my age I know that can wire a house 😉
Heather says
My mom taught me to never stop learning new things. She just recently (in the past few years) started following professional baseball and opera, and she taught herself to play mah jong. Her interests are wide and varied, and I love that!
thethinkingmom says
Such a sweet post. I learned from my mom that nothing is important as being a mom – she always put my siblings & I first 🙂
P.S. I got “If you want to write” yesterday, just a few chapters in, but love it already! Thanks for the recommendation!
Kate says
I learned, it’s the small things that count.
J says
I learned from my grandma how to bring family together with good food and company.
Jessica says
My mom taught me how to balance work and home and be great at both!
LoriAngela says
I learned to sing while I do housework, to plant flowers under the rosebushes like bridesmaids and to never buy anything I can make myself.
melody says
what a precious mama you have. i hope the rest of her visit is magical! i am obsessed with vintage swimsuits. popina knows what they are doing! 🙂 happy weekend to you!
Ryan's Mommy says
My favorite thing learned from my Mom: There is nothing more important than family. Everything else is small stuff — so never sweat the small stuff.
The Murfitt's says
I learned to flush public toilets with my shoe…
Kayla says
I don’t have a mom, but I have a few “replacement moms”. I’ve learned that I have value, that I am dearly known and loved and with that comes freedom and healing. I am so thankful for the women in my life who have loved me well!
p.s. I wish it was warm here in the Pacific Northwest! I’m envious of your sunshine!
MG Atwood says
My mother taught me how to can fruit, how to truly appreciate older things, fine things, things from another era. I often sit and wonder, “who used these things before me?” Oh how I miss her.
dariclone says
That no matter how hard the world is on you and no matter what you’ve gone through, home is the place where you can go and everything will be okay.
Ann says
My mother is still teaching me things at 45 years old! I don’t think you ever get too old to learn from your mother. One thing that has helped me get past some troubles, whether large or small, is my mother’s teaching me “This, too, shall pass”. I’ve used that many times when things were out of control in my life. It doesn’t matter if it seems insignificant, like a drink spilled, or something huge, like having a daughter diagnosed with DS and a heart condition. Those didn’t pass, but my initial earth-shattering reaction certainly turned around! So, I guess the best thing my mother has taught me is coping skills and how to do it with a smile.
aliki says
I learned that it’s important to help yourself sometimes, even when you think you aren’t important enough to do so.
I’m so in love with the yellow one you had last year, I had to buy it in yellow. Thanks for the code!
Ashley says
One of the best things I learned from my mama is to love God with all your heart. I hope that my children will learn this same thing!
Brandi says
My mom taught me how to cross stitch. I still make an ornament for our Christmas tree every year, just like she did when we were growing up.
Chanalesings says
I learned to sing my heart out while cooking. It puts everyone in the house in a good mood and helps work up an appetite!
christina says
My mom taught me that the greatest strength, and the greatest peace, comes from knowing when and how to surrender. xoxo, love to you and your beautiful family…
Holly says
From my mom, I’ve learned that there is absolutely nothing that can stand in the way of your dreams, the hardships in your life can be the biggest blessings and that I should praise God through it all.
Enjoy your time with your mama!
My Secret Rooms says
It’s a sure sign that I’ve had too much on my plate when I haven’t had time to read this blog….
Now, finally, I’m here – loving what you write!
I envy it à bit also. My mama would never come visit and stay and I have a _really_ hard time thinking of something I learned from her, about being a mama.
I did find one thing that was her inclination, even if she didn’t get around to it all the way – putting the (small) child’s needs before her own.
Some say it’s not a good thing to do that, but obviously that’s the good thing I remember from my early childhood!
To me, my boys’ wishes have top priority because what they long for, I long for too.
Thanks for making me think about this, Kelle!
P says
Why would you and your kids have to make pies too? Make grandma-hood your own with your own twist. Maybe tea party cakes instead….
P says
Why would you and your kids have to make pies too? Make grandma-hood your own with your own twist. Maybe tea party cakes instead….
glenda says
hi,
i have read your blog for a little while now and just love it.
i can hardly wait for your book to come out.
the pies i saw on here remind me of the pies my mum makes. she makes them the best so i do not even try to make them any more.
she always said “you have more time then lives” and nothing is worth getting so impatient for… i found myself repeating that little saying to my kids when they were young.
thank you for your wonderful attitude about life.
Sheena Perera says
To be consistent, faithful, loyal and loving. I know that’s more than one but I limited my list to those few! 🙂
Teresa says
My Mama taught me to sing! When I was a kid we always had the crappiest cars (all my single-3 job working-Mama could afford) with non-working radio’s usually. We didn’t need a radio however because my Mama knew every word to every classic country song ever written! We’d be riding down the road belting out such hit’s as ‘Coat of Many Colors’ and ‘Carrol County Accident’, etc.. Even when we did have a working radio, we’d often turn it off and beg Mama to sing anyway!
She won’t do it anymore… too embarrassed now that we’re older, but I will never forget it!
I used to do it when my daughter was little, she’s 13 now and plugged into her iPod 24/7. But she loved it then and I hope she will never forget either!
grandma and grandpa says
My mother taught me not to tell lies and gossip because sure as shooting it would come back to haunt me! Besides that, I know that I would never be able to remember the details in regarding the lie I’ve told! The lies can hurt the liar as well as the person being lied about.
I love reading your blog even when I may disagree with your view once in awhile . It sure gives me food for thought!
Suzanne
Oh! Baby Designs says
I don’t know what it is, but that lavender polka dot shirt with flowers and the coral lipstick is just beyond fabulous on you!!! You look stunning! Not to mention Nella 🙂
Shelly Cunningham says
You are beautiful. The picture of you with sweet Nella at your computer desk is stunning. I hope you wake up everyday and know how truly gorgeous you are.
And aside from being a knockout, you are inspirational. Your blog inspires me everyday. I read all my other blogs first, saving yours, the best, for last. Thank you for sharing your love of life and your belief that life is good.
We recently moved to rural Alaska so my husband could follow his passion and teach, and I have to say that your quote, the one you refer to most often, about doing something with our one wild and precious life, it helped open my eyes to the adventure this could be.
Michele Patterson says
A friend of mine posted a couple of these “More Alike Than Different” videos on his Facebook page today in honor of World Down Syndrome Awareness day. You may have already seen them all, but this one really made me think of you and your need to “get your groove on.” 🙂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdqHbS-xAxg&feature=share
What I’ve learned from my Mom is that there’s a definite ebb and flow to life. Allowing yourself to feel the depths of each emotion will mold you into a person who can empathize, celebrate, be frustrated, work for what’s right… And she also taught me that some days are perfect for making a pie. Today is strawberry. 🙂
Thanks for what you write. 🙂
melifaif says
p.s. Mint nails and red lips = perfection ON YOU!!!!
MommaBear07 says
I learned to let go and have fun with my kids. My house may not be perfect, but it’s comfortable and my kids are soooo loved. I love making a fool of myself for my babies just to get a smile, the same way my momma did for me and my siblings.
Heather says
Kelle, I have been wanting a Popina swimsuit since last year when I saw all of yours. I finally saved up some pennies to buy one, but wasn’t thrilled with selection. Are you going to be offering any promos again this year, as in a certain percentage off? If so, I wanted to wait. Thanks!
Heather says
Kelle,
I have been wanting a Popina suit since I admired all of yours last year. Their selection isn’t too great this year in my opinion and maybe it’s just too early. But before I ordered one, I wanted to see if you would be running any specials, percentage off, like you did last year. If so, I was going to wait until then.
Thanks!