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?

Susan Baker: 1987. 

NGV: Tell us about your family.

SB: Two amazing daughters who chose great husbands and so blessed to have three beautiful, funny and active grand children. My supportive husband who puts up with me!

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

SB:I honestly kept thinking, I just love them at 6 months, then it was oh, my 5 year olds are the best. It’s at times a roller coaster but looking back I loved every moment (teenage years were a bit challenging). Now that my daughters are grown, I love seeing them happy and raising their children to be wonderful people.

NGV: What about the challenges of being a mother?

SB: Trying to be a good example. Children watch everything you do.

NGV: What does motherhood mean to you?

SB: Love! I always wanted to be a mother, never understood friends who opted out. The unconventional love you give and get can’t be explained until you have a child.