From the Editor:
Mothering mentors

I had a hard act to follow when I became a mother. My mother was the most selfless person I’ve ever known. Her greatest joy was her family, her constant mission caretaking. I, on the other hand, struggled to balance my own needs with the needs of my three children. But when a parenting challenge came my way, it was often my mother’s soothing voice in my head that mentored me through it.

I’ve had many mentors along my mothering journey. Some only touched my life briefly, and others have been long-time friends. All have given me gifts of insight, wisdom, courage, laughter, determination, or an example to follow when I was stuck or discouraged.

There’s Judy, who taught me to seek help if a child’s problem was beyond my ability to solve, and to not give in to guilt. And Pam, who tirelessly advocated for educational services for her son with Down’s Syndrome.

Barb taught me to walk my talk, to live my values, even if they’re not mainstream or hip. The Women in Black I stand in silence with each first Friday of the month have helped me put my wish for a peaceful world into action.

Sara showed me that homemaking is an art form, inspiring me to create a warm haven for my family with resources at hand, and to give my children a magical childhood.

Marjorie’s example made me realize it was possible to raise a family and hold onto a dream for myself when she earned her PhD in her 40s and became a college professor.

My daughter Jessica’s courage and determination humbled me when I was privileged to support her through the difficult birth of her first child.

Women I met through my years of involvement in La Leche League graciously shared their wisdom and compassion. Writers who send stories to this newspaper make me see parenting from all possible perspectives. Those who have unabashedly shared the hilarity of parenting with me have a special place in my heart.

It’s my hope that mothers who read Northwest Baby & Child also find kindred spirits and mentors in these pages. Who are your mothering mentors? If you can thank them, do it now. I’d give anything to be able to thank my mother, but she died in 1991, and I can only hope she is watching and pleased with the mother I became. Not as selfless as she was, but still trying to do my best.