The Mommy Diaries
Finding Yourself in the Daily Adventure
Edited by Tally Flint

Mothering is an adventure to be sure. From baby's first kisses and cute messy faces to trips to the playground and pushing a grocery cart with a screaming toddler, a mom's life is full of adventures with her children. But it's not only about the kids. Mothering is also an adventure in personal growth for every woman who undertakes this important role.

The Mommy Diaries is a collection of encouraging, heartwarming and funny true stories from moms just like you. These honest and open reflections on mothering will help you rediscover yourself amidst the demands of motherhood. The stories cover all the issues that are close to your heart as a mother, including:

• reclaiming your identity as a woman
• remembering your own personal growth
• cultivating meaningful adult relationships
• asking for help when you need it
• gaining perspective on the everyday demands of motherhood
• keeping hope alive

The Mommy Diaries is your chance to catch a fresh glimpse of who you are and how you can grow in the midst of the mothering process. You may be too busy on the adventure to write in your own diary, but you'll see yourself in these stories and be encouraged on your own daily adventure!

What moms are saying about The Mommy Diaries:
"The Mommy Diaries Book is fantastic! The short stories are Mommy Testimonies that warmed my heart and brought tears to my eyes. I am going to walk our mom's through this book this year. I am going to set aside time for our mom's to discuss the stories they have read. Thank you for such a great book!!!"
-MOPS Coordinator 

Excerpt from The Mommy Diaries

A Two-Way Street
By Laura Broadwater

My youngest son and I were on our way home from running errands one day, when he suddenly leaned over and placed his head against my shoulder. I glanced down at him. He seemed to be doing it a lot lately and it worried me. This behavior was unusual for him. Having an older brother, one who thought being the oldest came with the inherent rights of “boss and bully,” he usually expended much energy acting tough and standing his ground. But we were alone and I figured that maybe he thought it was safe to let down his guard. Still, careful not to make him feel like a baby, I playfully asked, “What ‘ya doing?”

“Getting.”

Curious by such an odd response I asked, “What are you getting?”

“Love,” he replied.

“Oh,” I smiled, nodding my head. And for the rest of the ride home, he remained in that position.

The next time we were out driving and he did it, I casually asked, “Are you needing some love?” His answer surprised me.

“No mom, I’m giving it.” Shocked, I drove on in silence, pondering the wisdom of his word — and the simple fact that I might need love, too. I was so used to giving love to those around me who were in need of it, I’d never thought about receiving it myself. Not even from God.

This practice continued on between us for years. After a while, though, I stopped asking whether he was “getting” or “giving.” The mere action itself served as a reminder of the need for balance in my life when it came to the giving and receiving of love.

With much regret, the day finally came when we had to abandon this practice. He just got too big (even when scrunched down) to lean his head on my shoulder. Still, regardless of how tall or grown up he gets, I won’t forget the lesson he taught me while out driving down those country roads. Loving someone is meant to be a two-way street.

The Mommy Diaries is a part of the 2008-09 MOPS International Membership Benefits. If you are not a part of a MOPS group but would like to be MOPS International Member, Click Here.

You may also purchase additional copies of
The Mommy Diaries in the MOPShop.