This one’s for the moms!

Hello internet world! It’s good to share with you again. Good news…I made it through my hardest semester of college yet, and I’m a senior at the University of Georgia! Can I get an amen? Now, I’m home for the summer.

In the process of applying for an internship this summer, I submitted the following piece as a writing sample. Fast forward to now—I’m an intern! This piece, though, is still relevant, especially after just celebrating Mother’s Day. So, I wanted to share it with y’all!

Even though it is dedicated to all the moms out there, I wrote it specifically with one in mind—my wonderful, crazy, joyful, special mom! Whether you’re a mom-to-be, a new mom, an old mom, or some type of mom in between, I hope these words will speak to you. 

Happy Belated Mother’s Day!

Xoxo, Marlee

What Your Child Will Really Notice

When you consider all that must be done as a mother, it can be overwhelming. Be reassured that some things can slide, and your child will undoubtedly remember what was most important.

The moment you bring your child home from the hospital, you are prone to wonder if s/he is going to notice all that you will do. How am I doing in this new career as a mom? Am I truly making an impact? Are my victories outweighing my failures?

Here’s what I can say with enormous confidence. From me, a 21-year-old with an amazing mom, to you: I can assure you that what I have noticed are the most meaningful moments. I am more grateful than I’ve admitted through the years, but if I can one day nurture, support, and love my children the way my mom has for me, then I will have made it. I promise you that your child will notice the acts of love over the details. You’re already killing it. You really are.

If you need some reassurance to get you through the next 18 years, these examples will show you what we, children, truly notice and the things you can give yourself a bit more freedom to let slide.

1.  I remember the time I pleaded with my mom to wear my favorite shirt for picture day. She went out of her way to wash that one shirt. What I can’t tell you is the number of times my mom got behind on laundry. So, if you feel the weight of the clothes piling up, don’t fret.

2. I remember the numerous Saturdays my mom spent taking my friends and I to the movies or taking me with her to get our nails done. I can’t, however, recollect how many times she spent a Saturday cleaning. Advice for you: If your furniture is a tad dusty and your toilets need cleaning, it can wait a little while longer.

3. I remember feeling celebrated every birthday. I will never forget the huge smile that spread across my mom’s face each time I blew out my candles. Yet, I can’t recall if every decoration was perfectly hung or every goodie bag was perfectly filled. If you miscount, it’s okay.

4. I remember each time my mom rubbed my head as I fell asleep even when her eyes were drifting off as well. The number of 20-minute rests she took for herself along the way, I could not tell you. When you need a small dose of “me-time,” take it.

Try to not beat yourself up. I pledge my word to you that every tear wiped or note written is accounted for much more than every floor swept or towel folded. We love you, and we are grateful for the endless acts of selflessness. They mean the world to us, but you, you mean the universe.

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