My mom Diane Todd Yates was born on the 4th of July and died on Christmas. When she died, I was nowhere close to ready to have a memorial for her. I wouldn’t even bring her ashes into my house. The ashes lived in my Jeep for six months and drove around town with me...
I am the proud mom to four children. My oldest two children are on the autism spectrum, and my youngest two are considered “neurotypical.” When I first became pregnant, I never dreamed I would raise a child on the autism spectrum. The thought never crossed...
Since becoming a mother, I now experience joy, fear, isolation and pride more than I ever imagined I would. Since my daughter came along I have cried harder than I thought possible, but I’ve also laughed more than I have in years. Motherhood has taught me...
I want my kids to be healthy and to have a good education, and to always watch their manners. I teach them: love who you are. Love who you are. And accept others as you want to be accepted.
On a warm summer afternoon a couple years ago I was walking along an art festival with my husband and children. Tents were set up along the pedestrian mall with artists of every medium showcasing their beautiful work. We passed a tent of oil paintings and out of the...
Motherhood changed my life and shaped me into a woman I never imagined I would be. I discover a new thing about this woman every day. Motherhood has not only taught me patience and compassion, it has taught me the true meaning of unconditional love and a determination...
