American writer Washington Irving said, “A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.” In celebration of mothers, the North Gwinnett Voice has asked several local mothers to reflect on motherhood, including both the joys and the challenges of such an important and influential role in the lives of children as they grow and develop.

North Gwinnett Voice: When did you become a mother?

Robin Bagby: I became a mother in 1994. Due on Mother’s Day but (she) came three days late. 

NGV: Tell us about your family.

RB: I have one child, a daughter, who is turning 29 this year. She and her husband have blessed me with a grandson, who is 6, and my second grandson is due in late July. I am engaged to my high school “crush.” We got together in 2019 after not seeing each other since 1983.

NGV: What have been some of the joys you’ve experienced through motherhood?

RB: One of the biggest joys of motherhood has been watching my daughter experience things for the first time. Her first step, her first day of school, her first trip to Disney World, her first dance recital, her wedding, the birth of her first child. 

NGV: What about the challenges of being a mother?

RB: The biggest challenge I personally faced was being a single mother my daughter’s entire life. I was afraid of not being able to raise her to be a strong, independent woman.

NGV: What does motherhood mean to you? 

RB: Motherhood to me is a privilege, not an obligation. It’s the hardest job I’ve ever had but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Still, after being a mother for almost 29 years, I’m still learning through her and others, to be better.