16 Years of Motherhood: Lessons I’ve Learned from Being London’s Mom

It’s been 16 years, and every year I get more and more emotional watching my daughter grow into the incredible young woman she’s becoming. today is London's 16th birthday, and it’s hard to put into words what this milestone means to me as her mother. Since the moment she was born, she’s been my greatest blessing and my greatest teacher.

From the very beginning, it’s been 16 years of unconditional love. Since she was a baby, it’s always been us—her loving me and me loving her fiercely in return. You couldn’t tell that baby a thing about her mama, and you still can’t. And me? Don’t tell me about my baby. That bond has been unshakable, a love so deep and pure it has taught me more than I ever thought I could learn.

It’s been 16 years of lessons in love, forgiveness, compassion, resilience, and sacrifice. It’s been 16 years of making sure she had before I did, of being her protector, her cheerleader, and her guide. Being London’s mom has been the most beautiful experience of my life. Watching her grow into a kind-hearted, caring, and respectful young lady has been an honor. She’s so compassionate, so sensitive, so thoughtful. She’s a good friend, a good daughter, a good granddaughter—she’s just good in every sense of the word.

Lately, I’ve seen her become more focused, talking about school, grades, college, and her future. She’s starting to dream big, and I couldn’t be prouder. As much as I want to hold on to the little girl I’ve loved for 16 years, I’m so excited to see the young woman she’s becoming.

So, London, if you ever read this, I hope it’s something you can look back on whenever you need a reminder of how deeply loved you are. Here are 16 lessons I’ve learned in 16 years of being your mom—lessons that come from loving you, growing with you, and learning from you every single day.

16 Lessons I’ve Learned in 16 Years of Being London’s Mom

1. Unconditional Love Is the Greatest Gift.

   The love between us is unshakable. Since she was a baby, London has taught me what it means to love without limits, without conditions, and without hesitation.

   
   

2. Every Child Is Different.

   London is her own person, with her own pace, quirks, and journey. I’ve learned to embrace her individuality and honor the path that’s meant for her.

3. Your Dreams Aren’t Their Dreams.

   I had so many ideas for who I thought London would be, but I’ve learned to step back and let her discover who she wants to be. Watching her grow into herself has been beautiful.

   
   

4. You Have to Talk to Them.

   Kids understand more than we think. Having open, honest conversations—early and often—helps prepare them for life’s challenges.

5. Resilience Is Built Through Love.

   London has shown me that even when life throws challenges, love and support help build the strength to keep going.

   
   

6. Sacrifice Comes Naturally When You Love Someone.

   There were so many times I put her needs above my own without a second thought. That’s just what love does.

7. They Teach You as Much as You Teach Them.

   Being London’s mom has taught me patience, humility, and grace. I’ve grown so much because of her.

   
   

8. It’s Okay to Let Them Fail.

   As much as I want to protect her, I’ve learned that she needs to experience failure to grow stronger and more independent.

   
   

9. Boundaries Are Love.

   Setting limits doesn’t mean being harsh; it means teaching respect—for themselves and others.

   

   

   

   

   

   
   
   

10. Presence Matters More Than Perfection.

    I don’t have to be a perfect mom. What matters most is that I show up for her, every day, in the ways that count.

    
    

11. Co-Parenting Takes Intentionality.

    Peace and love are what’s best for kids. I’ve learned how to create a positive environment where London feels supported by both parents.

    
    

12. They’re Always Watching.

    London watches how I carry myself, how I handle challenges, and how I treat others. I’ve learned that leading by example is everything.

    
    

13. Hard Work Is Always Worth It.

    Nothing comes easy, and I’ve worked to show her that hard work and perseverance pay off in the long run.

    
    

14. Little Moments Create Big Memories.

    It’s the bedtime talks, random car rides, and shared laughs that have meant the most over the years.

    
    

15. They Need to Know You’re Human, Too.

    I’ve learned it’s okay to show vulnerability—to say, “I don’t have all the answers,” or, “I’m sorry.” It teaches them humility and empathy.

    
    

16. Love Them Unconditionally.

    At the end of the day, the greatest thing I can do is remind London that no matter what happens, she is loved—fully and without question.

London,

being your mom has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. It shaped me into the adult I am today and marked the true beginning of my journey into adulthood. I was 24, still figuring out who I was and what I was doing, but you gave me purpose. You made me get focused. You gave me life, hope, and a love so deep it’s hard to put into words.

I hope you carry these lessons with you and know how deeply loved you are—not just today but every single day of your life. I’m so proud of the young woman you’re becoming, and I can’t wait to see all that you’ll do in this world. Thank you for being my greatest teacher, my greatest blessing, and my greatest joy.

Love always,

Mom