Within these blogs are stories that will connect you on all levels of mother loss. Regardless of how you became motherless, someone has written their story to share and connect with you. Dig into these blogs and find the words you need to hear. Let these words speak directly into your soul. Let these words connect with you. Let these words affirm that you are not alone in your mother loss journey.
The Podcast Team | September 15, 2023
As motherless daughters, we often wish God could remove the pain and struggle from our lives. Whether we lost our . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | September 1, 2023
Ashes are what remain after something has been destroyed by fire. There appears to be no hope for restoration or . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | August 18, 2023
The EAM” is “The Emotionally Absent Mother” course offered by The Motherless Daughters Ministry. Our guest writer shared what this . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | August 4, 2023
Our new series highlights The Motherless Daughters Ministry volunteers. MDM podcast administrator, Sarah Lynn Wells, interviews volunteers to learn more . . . Read More
Sarah Accoridino | August 2, 2023
On December 18, 1997 my mother, a mother of 5 children including myself, was driving home when someone ran a . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | July 22, 2023
Motherhood is a challenge under the best circumstances to say nothing of doing it without your own mother. This is . . . Read More
To the Girl Who Had to Grow Up Too Fast
Shyanne Dorrity | July 19, 2023
This is a letter to the girl who had to grow up too fast. To the girl who watched her . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | July 8, 2023
During the Independence Day holiday our thoughts turn to all those who dedicated their lives to the cost of freedom. . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | June 23, 2023
How much time have you spent living in survival mode? The pain of grief can be buried so deep that . . . Read More
Voices of Volunteers - M.E.Collins
The Podcast Team | June 9, 2023
Who are the people doing the work behind the scenes for the Motherless Daughters Ministry? This episode is the first . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | May 23, 2023
Who are you? Where do you get your identity? Are you defined by the negative experiences that have shaped your . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | May 5, 2023
Mother’s Day is a challenge for the motherless daughters’ community. It brings about a bag of mixed emotions. The different . . . Read More
C.A.Bleu | April 26, 2023
Struggling through survival mode? Through our suffering we grow and learn to identify our strengths. We just don’t see it . . . Read More
Flowers and Frisch’s Hot Fudge Cake
The Podcast Team | April 21, 2023
The Motherless Daughters Ministry blogger and volunteer podcast team member, Dottie Menkhaus, shares her reflections on two decades of journeying . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | April 12, 2023
The subject of love has been on my mind since I set out on my healing journey over a decade . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | April 7, 2023
“The Journey Retreat: Healing the Wounds of Mother Loss One Step at a Time” was inspired by God and designed . . . Read More
You Will be Healed, it's Only a Matter of Time
Sarah Lynn Wells | April 5, 2023
Since sharing my last post, I have sat down numerous times to write again but have suffered from writer’s block. . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | March 24, 2023
Even when we are overwhelmed with burdens, we can cling to the promises God has given us in His Word. . . . Read More
Elyse Kehe | March 15, 2023
Since my mother passed away nearly 17 years ago, I have become quite a connoisseur of “self-help” methods. I was, . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | March 10, 2023
In recognition of Women’s History Month, this podcast authored by MDM blogger, Chris Fischel, shares the touching story of a . . . Read More
The Podcast Team | January 13, 2023
There comes a time when we need to start again. We need to accept the blunt truth: I am a . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | December 30, 2022
Dictionaries define fear as a strong, unpleasant and distressing emotion caused by the anticipation or awareness of danger, evil or . . . Read More
Ages & Stages of Loss: 0-6 Revisited
Gladys Bell | December 16, 2022
From birth to 6 years of age is the most significant period for brain development. It has a lasting effect . . . Read More
C.A. Bleu | December 7, 2022
Winter has a way of revealing. After the beauty of Fall, when the colors of gratitude fade, we find the . . . Read More
Ages & Stages of Loss: The 20's - Revisited
Gladys Bell | December 2, 2022
If you experienced mother loss in your 20’s, there may be lasting effects that impact the ability o accomplish goals. . . . Read More
Lovely Marie | November 30, 2022
In prayer this morning thanking God for peace. I ask Him to deliver me, use me, try me or even . . . Read More
Create a Family Thanksgiving: Starting a New Tradition in the Face of Loss
Mary Ellen Collins | November 23, 2022
I want to talk to you about celebrating holidays. And really what we have to do as motherless daughters is . . . Read More
Healing From the Traumas of the Past - Revisited
Gladys Bell | November 18, 2022
In this not-to-be-missed episode Dottie Menkhaus hosts Kristin Mitchener in a discussion about healing from trauma. That process includes surfacing . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | November 4, 2022
If you know a teen who has experienced mother loss, please share this episode. While the Motherless Daughters Ministry target . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | October 9, 2022
The Motherless Daughters Ministry wants to know how to best serve you in 2023. After listening to Mary Ellen’s video, . . . Read More
C.A.Bleu | October 26, 2022
I recently listened to a devotional called ‘Killing Comparison with Nona Jones’ on the Holy Bible app. Something about the . . . Read More
Ages & Stages of Loss: 6-12 Revisited
Gladys Bell | October 21, 2022
Ages & Stages of Loss: 6-12 Revisited If you experienced mother loss between the ages of 6 and 12, this . . . Read More
Ages & Stages of Loss Introduction - Revisited
Gladys Bell | October 7, 2022
Did you know that you already have the key to understanding the impact mother loss has had on your life? . . . Read More
Who Is a Motherless Daughter? - Revisited
Gladys Bell | September 23, 2022
Our second most popular podcast brought you 5 voices of experience …..real women, real situations, members of this ministry…telling their . . . Read More
Sara Lynn Wells | September 21, 2022
Lightning flashed as I jolted awake to an all too familiar scene of my little boy standing by the bed . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | September 14, 2022
“If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes. Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; . . . Read More
The Beginning of a Ministry - Revisited
Gladys Bell | September 9, 2022
The most popular episode of the first year of our podcast was the story of how the ministry began. While . . . Read More
C.A.Bleu | September 7, 2022
Forgiveness is hard, maybe I just make it harder than it should be? When we feel hurt or harmed by . . . Read More
I’m Fine, You’re Fine, We’re All Fine!
C. A. Bleu | August 31, 2022
I like to write, as you can tell, but its hard to write about painful things. Things we all keep . . . Read More
Light at the Endo of the Tunnel
Gladys Bell | August 26, 2022
If you cannot see any light at the end of the tunnel, it is practically impossible to even know there . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | August 24, 2022
God says, “I’m coming. Are you?” Trusting God in times of doubt is a real test of faith. Being obedient . . . Read More
Tina Elliott | August 17, 2022
In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | August 12, 2022
Learning to live again after a significant loss involves a maze of feelings and emotions. Somewhere under the surface of . . . Read More
Lovely Marie | August 10, 2022
Its 3:21 am. It’s Mother’s Day. Second night in a row I can’t sleep. I pray. I talk to God. . . . Read More
Where Unconditional Love is found
Cathy DiBella | August 3, 2022
The minute you walk in the door, you are loved, accepted for who you are and where you are on . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | July 29, 2022
Many of the restrictions have been lifted, but we are still navigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its . . . Read More
Janna | July 27, 2022
My Journey Through Physical and Emotional Mother Loss New beginnings Exchanging marriage vows with my husband was by far the . . . Read More
Lovely Marie | July 20, 2022
This week of fasting and prayer ended in a foot washing service for our St. Ministry Team. Mother’s Day is . . . Read More
Families: More Than Just Blood Relatives
Gladys Bell | July 15, 2022
How do you define “family?” Who do you consider a part of your family circle? Who are the people who . . . Read More
27 Mothers Days Without my mom
Dr. Jane Richardson | July 13, 2022
She was the definition of kindness and generosity. She was the premier example of good manners and a gracious heart. . . . Read More
Lovely Marie | July 6, 2022
I’m keenly aware of the pain that comes with Mother’s Day. It’s not the pain of not having children nor . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | July 1, 2022
The memories of a painful past are still painful as we recall the experience. But the fact that you survived . . . Read More
Conversations in the Bathroom Mirror
C.A. Bleu. | June 29, 2022
If we are all being honest, I know I’m not the only one out there that seems to have brief . . . Read More
Lovely Marie | June 22, 2022
I received the ring I bought myself for Mother’s Day today. I usually crochet roses, make, sweet treats, or some . . . Read More
The Phone Call That Changed My Life
Gladys Bell | June 17, 2022
We remember, in detail, those moments that changed our lives. When triggered, those feelings and emotions wash over us like . . . Read More
Rekita Chenault | June 15, 2022
It was the day of my brother’s graduation from high school. I was so proud of him. I had my . . . Read More
Tina Elliott | June 8, 2022
There once was a child lost and alone; she struggled with thoughts of having no home. Darkness prevailed as life moved . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | June 3, 2022
Those who have provided the secure foundation of our development and lit our pathway will forever remain in our hearts. . . . Read More
Do you know why God made rutabagas?
Mary Ellen Collins | June 1, 2022
Do you know why God made rutabagas? Yeah, I said rutabagas God uses everything, even rutabagas to make his presence . . . Read More
Christine Fishel | May 25, 2022
My mom wore satiny nightgowns: pale blue, light pink, sometimes yellow. They were sleeveless or cap-sleeved, decorated at the bodice . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | May 20, 2022
A neon sign cannot be missed. It demands attention and won’t be ignored. In the same way, the neon year . . . Read More
Rekita Chenault | May 18, 2022
To go to a place where you can let go of all of your troubles and worries and just be . . . Read More
Is Mother's Day Difficult for You?
Mershon Niesner | May 7, 2022
Join one of our blog writers and her friend who is another motherless daughter & author as they share stories . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | May 6, 2022
Mother’s Day brings a lifetime of memories to the forefront. We are bombarded by enticements to spend lots of money . . . Read More
Light at the End of the Tunnel
Rekita Chenault | May 4, 2022
It was going to be my first day of middle school. Although I was sad about the summer ending, I . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | April 22, 2022
“I spent my entire life, checking off goal after goal with the unrealistic expectation of becoming the new improved” me. . . . Read More
Rekita Chenault | April 20, 2022
I remember that night, like yesterday, before it happened. Me, my sister and brothers brought our mattresses, blankets, and pillows . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | April 8, 2022
Saying “Goodbye” to your childhood home can be an emotional experience. Whether you are leaving for the first time or . . . Read More
Rekita Chenault | April 6, 2022
When you are hurt time and time again, you can start to resent other people because you don’t want to . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | March 25, 2022
Healing is a process. When one suffers trauma such as mother loss at a young age seeds are sown, roots . . . Read More
The Rainbow Always Shines Through
Rekita Chenault | March 23, 2022
How do you deal with a whirlwind of emotions that feel like they’re going to overtake you on a regular . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | March 12, 2022
We never outlive our desire for the comfort of mother. In its absence we seek a replacement. This episode recounts . . . Read More
Sudden Loss, Anticipated Loss, and Non-death Loss: What’s the Difference?
Mary Ellen Collins | March 9, 2022
Mother loss binds us all together. Mother loss is the commonality but there are differences. There is no one loss . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | February 25, 2022
Emotional presence is a powerful tool for those yielding support to anyone who is in need. It is especially effective . . . Read More
Rekita Chenault | February 23, 2022
When the one that gave birth to you doesn’t want to provide the simple thing called love, that you need, . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | February 11, 2022
“It’s not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one who is most . . . Read More
Dear Supporter of the Motherless Daughters Ministry Community
Mary Ellen Collins | February 2, 2022
I feel so lucky to get to be the person to thank you for supporting the ministry. On behalf of . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | January 28, 2022
Podcast Losing your mom to death becomes the second round when you have already lost her to a health or . . . Read More
Healing from the Traumas of our Past
Kristin Mitchener | January 14, 2022
Navigating trauma as a motherless daughter can feel like you are drowning in an ocean of grief and shame with . . . Read More
Reflections by a Motherless Daughter
Gladys Bell | December 31, 2021
Podcast On the eve of a new year we, typically, look back on what we came through during the past . . . Read More
Is It Safe To Grieve The Mom You Don't Have?
Maya | December 29, 2021
Do you strive for love from your mom? Beg for validation and affection? Sit alone and cry because you want . . . Read More
Holidays as a Motherless Daughter
Gladys Bell | December 17, 2021
What’s your experience as a motherless daughter? There is no one who has a story identical to yours. But ALL . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | December 3, 2021
Surviving the holiday season when you are grieving takes forethought and planning. Regardless of the circumstances around how you become . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | November 10, 2021
It’s my mother’s birthday on Friday. I never considered her birthday to be a trigger for my childhood trauma, but . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | November 5, 2021
Ages & Stages of Loss: The 60’s The series about, “Ages & Stages of Loss,” ends with the poem below, but there is . . . Read More
Maya | November 3, 2021
“Just Get Over It” “The worst wounds, the deadliest of them, aren’t the ones people see on the outside. They’re the . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | October 22, 2021
Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia, which affects memory, thinking, language and behavior. As it progresses, it . . . Read More
The Age & Stage of Loss: The 50’s
Gladys Bell | October 8, 2021
Although experiencing mother loss in your 50’s is a more common occurrence, it still brings challenges. Life is even more . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | October 6, 2021
“Let me know, let me know when I’ve got room to run” – Dermot Kennedy I’m very much moved by . . . Read More
6 Lessons from Squirrel Watching
Mary Ellen Collins | September 29, 2021
What can a squirrel teach us about overcoming obstacles? I love nature and try to spend as much time outdoors . . . Read More
The Age & Stage of Loss: The 40’s
Gladys Bell | September 24, 2021
New Podcast – Experiencing mother loss in your 40’s brings yet another unique set of circumstances. Although like the 30’s, . . . Read More
Respect - The untold story of a motherless daughter
Mary Ellen Collins | September 22, 2021
Stories are often hidden from what we know and see. Actually they are right in front of us if we . . . Read More
What Causes A Mother To Be EMOTIONALLY Absent?
Maya | September 15, 2021
What causes a mother to not want to be around, be involved, or demonstrate love and interest in her child? . . . Read More
New Podcast - The Last Goodbye
Gladys Bell | September 10, 2021
Our featured special guest for this episode! Dottie Menkhaus is a Motherless Daughters Ministry volunteer, project team member and contributing . . . Read More
Before You Roll Your Eyes Daughter
Amanda Loduca | September 8, 2021
Oh, my girl. If only you could know someday how many times I stare at the video monitor after you’re . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | September 1, 2021
I’m sitting outside listening to the birds chirp their language of life and presence. Something about birds has always intrigued . . . Read More
New Podcast - Ages & Stages of Loss: The 30's
Gladys Bell | August 27, 2021
Did you experience mother loss in your 30’s. If so, there are lots of women who understand your journey. The . . . Read More
Amanda Loduca | August 25, 2021
About a month ago I grew unusually, irrationally irritable over something small. I get cranky sometimes, but this time was . . . Read More
Restoration- Beauty from ashes
Julie Thompson | August 18, 2021
One of the hardest things I’ve ever done was to reach out for help. One of the best things I’ve ever . . . Read More
New Podcast - The Age & Stage of Loss: The 20's
Gladys Bell | August 13, 2021
If you experienced mother loss while in your 20’s, there may be lasting effects on the accomplishment of goals. Just . . . Read More
Navigating Relational Conflict
Maya Megiddo | August 12, 2021
Choosing A Different Path Than My Mother Taught Me Did you grow up in a home with an emotionally absent . . . Read More
Journey of Healing Part 3 – Seeing the World Through the Traumas of Our Past
Dottie Menkhaus | August 4, 2021
We filter our world through the traumas of our past. Our traumas build the lenses through which we view everything . . . Read More
Maya | July 28, 2021
When I was adopted I was given a new name —my mom’s middle and my dad’s last name. To be given something so . . . Read More
Dealing With Difficult Mother Stories
Mershon Niesner | July 21, 2021
The taboos about dissing our mothers, and the myths of motherhood which portray all mothers as loving, serve to isolate . . . Read More
The Lessons of Flesh and Stone
Amanda Loduca | July 14, 2021
You’d think a 29-year-old woman would have outgrown her fear of the dark. For the most part I had, but . . . Read More
Can My DNA Tell Me if I Was Wanted?
Maya | July 7, 2021
The results were in. As I clicked the link I wasn’t sure what I was looking at, but there were all kinds . . . Read More
The Complexities of Creature Comforts
Amanda Loduca | June 30, 2021
(A Story about Losing) Losing My Family Unit The reason a bathroom was chosen for the important talk was anyone’s guess. . . . Read More
Mershon Niesner | June 23, 2021
It happened in New York, April 10th, nineteen years ago. Even my hand balks at the date. I had to . . . Read More
Heart-Crushing Contenders Death vs. Abandonment
Anonymous | June 16, 2021
My first major depression happened after my husband of 6 years left out of the blue. The only explanation I . . . Read More
Journey of Healing Part 2 - The Storms of Uncertainty
Dottie Menkhaus | June 9, 2021
With the storms of life comes uncertainty. The waves crash around us, tossing our boat around. We feel vulnerable. Will the . . . Read More
Journey of Healing Part 1 - Vulnerability in sharing my story
Dottie Menkhaus | June 2, 2021
I hate vulnerability. It is painful, uncomfortable, and frightening. I hate uncertainty, too. I want to be certain of everything. . . . Read More
Danielle Ilacqua | May 26, 2021
At the end of 2019, I quit my secure City job as Assistant General Counsel to go on a two-month mission trip . . . Read More
Trust the Resilience in Yourself and Others
Mershon Niesner | May 19, 2021
The human capacity for burden is like bamboo- far more flexible than you’d ever believe at first glance. Jodi Picoult, author . . . Read More
When Mother Doesn’t Reach Back
Pat Kuykendoll | May 12, 2021
Non Death Loss and the Emotionally Absent Mother We are created with a natural desire to reach for another…and this . . . Read More
Mershon Niesner | May 5, 2021
Dear Motherless Daughter, You’re probably not looking forward to Mother’s Day this year—or any year. I’ve been motherless since I . . . Read More
Heather Wolper | April 28, 2021
I’m no stranger to grief. Over the years she has settled in and become as familiar as the feeling left . . . Read More
What Really Happens Inside a Motherless Daughters Class?
Maya | April 18, 2021
Can 6 Weeks Really Make A Difference? I felt like I was holding in a lifetime of pain, a dark . . . Read More
Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers: Accepting the Limitations Of My Mom
Maya | April 11, 2021
How Do I Know If I Have Accepted My Mother’s Limitations? In the book “Will I Ever Be Good Enough?” . . . Read More
How do you celebrate being unwanted?
Maya (Guest writer) | April 4, 2021
April 22. The day started out as the happiest one of my life. I was being adopted by my current . . . Read More
Ending The Pattern - Part 2 of 2
Maya (Guest writer) | March 28, 2021
When the girl is healed, the woman will come out. -Author Unknown A story lives within each of us. And . . . Read More
Maya (Guest writer) | March 21, 2021
On my healing journey, I continue to struggle with the knowing that I was just a “thing” to the mom who adopted me. A thing . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | March 14, 2021
We are fat with loss. As I waddle through the day, grief has become my go-to food of choice. I . . . Read More
Am I Enough Just the Way I Am?
Maya (Guest writer) | March 7, 2021
• Face To Face Church service ended and, on my way, out, there she was—my adoptive mom. It’s been five . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | February 28, 2021
A Saboteur. It sounds like a handsome, romantic, traveling Frenchman. Oh, how I wish it were. After two decades of dumping on . . . Read More
Mershon Niesner | February 21, 2021
What’s your most treasured keepsake from your mother? – by Mershon Niesner My most treasured keepsake is an old-fashioned ring with . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | February 14, 2021
I finished House Rules tonight, underlining and scribbling notes in the margins because I couldn’t find my highlighter. I saw . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | February 7, 2021
I am reading The Memory Palace by Mira Bartok. Her memories take shape as a house or maybe a castle. Nevertheless, . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | January 31, 2021
What happens when you see your mother for the first time in 8 years at your younger sister’s bridal shower: . . . Read More
Sharing stories of a Mother's last words
Mershon Niesner | January 24, 2021
On the morning I learned that my thirty-four-year-old mother had died, May 24, 1954, my dad also shared with me her . . . Read More
Maya (Guest writer) | January 17, 2021
A child can take a piece of ripped, wrinkled construction paper, a broken crayon, scribble something not even decipherable and yet be ever so proud. Proud . . . Read More
Chris Fishel | January 10, 2021
It’s been two years. And I’m just starting to grieve. I’ve forgotten whole parts of that first year. My husband’s family . . . Read More
January 3, 2021
Dear Mom by Maya (Guest Writer) I wish you could have been there for me and tucked me in just . . . Read More
December 27, 2020
By Maya (Guest writer) Adopted twice. Still motherless. I’ve felt the agony of not knowing who I was. Of not . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | December 20, 2020
I look around me, and I see no friends. No shopping buddies, coffee dates or spa partners. I have my . . . Read More
December 13, 2020
by Maya (Guest writer) Growing up, my adoptive mom believed you should never pick up a crying baby. The thought . . . Read More
On the Journey to Medication Adherence
December 6, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener I’ve been trying to find a way to say without saying that I have a problem taking . . . Read More
How Do I Say Good-bye to the Mother I Never Had?
November 29, 2020
by Maya (Guest writer) I dreamed of having a mom I could always call. Always go home to. The sound . . . Read More
The Healing Power of Friendship
November 22, 2020
by Dottie Menkhaus On the anniversary of my mother’s death, Ann* came over to teach me how to cook. We . . . Read More
Navigating old waters in a new way - The Impact That The Emotionally Absent Mother Class Had On Me
Maya | November 15, 2020
by Maya (guest writer) Leading up to this class, my husband had just left me. I was drowning in the . . . Read More
November 15, 2020
by Cathy DiBella Narcissism falls across a broad spectrum. We can detect some narcissists quickly, while others take more time. . . . Read More
Creating Connection with Your Children When Your Own Mother Was Emotionally Absent
November 8, 2020
by Pat Kuykendoll Women who have emotionally absent mothers often begin motherhood without a template of how to connect to . . . Read More
November 1, 2020
by Dottie Menkhaus We all tend to live our lives never knowing how we impact and influence others around us. . . . Read More
A Journey Through the Emotionally Absent Mother Class, Realizations
October 25, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener Read the first blogs in this series here: An Introduction to the Emotionally Absent Mother Class Blog . . . Read More
A Journey Through the Emotionally Absent Mother Class, #3 EAM Class Check-in
October 18, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener Read the first blogs in this series here: An Introduction to the Emotionally Absent Mother Class Blog . . . Read More
A Journey Through the Emotionally Absent Mother Class, First Class - Readings
October 11, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener Read the first blogs in this series here: An Introduction to the Emotionally Absent Mother Class Blog . . . Read More
A Journey Through the Emotionally Absent Mother Class, #1 Pre-EAM
October 4, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener Read the first blog in the series: An Introduction to the Emotionally Absent Mother Class Blog Post . . . Read More
An Introduction to the Emotionally Absent Mother Class Blog Post Series
September 27, 2020
My name is Kristin and I am the adult child of an emotionally absent mother. I want to share with . . . Read More
Healing the Heart in Wounded Attachment
September 20, 2020
by Patricia Kuykendoll We are born with eternity in our heart and mind. We enter a world of brokenness but . . . Read More
September 13, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener I have fears about my mother, irrational maybe, but based on her past behavior nothing would surprise . . . Read More
September 6, 2020
poem by Gina Ellis She journeys along country roads with an expectant sidelong gaze, looking for fancy crowns of white, . . . Read More
F-E-A-R, Forget Everything and Run or Rise?
Mary Ellen Collins | August 30, 2020
How do we face fear living in this pandemic crisis? The Coronavirus lurks and waits to attack. The last four . . . Read More
Danielle Ilacqua | August 23, 2020
Patience doesn’t just land on your lap because you pray for it. God allows a situation to manifest in your . . . Read More
August 16, 2020
by Angela Bergmann I found a lump in my breast on January 1, 2019. Surely this isn’t serious, I thought. . . . Read More
Cathy DiBella | August 9, 2020
After going out for dinner one evening with my husband, I had no desire to go back home to isolation. . . . Read More
August 2, 2020
by Gina Ellis My childhood sanctuary was my grandparents’ home. I walked their land exploring nature. I danced under the . . . Read More
July 26, 2020
By Cathy DiBella Did I have a good father? No. Was he emotionally absent, narcissistic? Yes. Did he spend time . . . Read More
Dottie Menkhaus | July 19, 2020
Living through the coronavirus pandemic among pieces of our shattered world has been difficult and exhausting. I have often struggled . . . Read More
Dottie Menkhaus | June 28, 2020
One day, a small lump appeared in the middle of the living room carpet. It was about the size of . . . Read More
Gina Ellis | June 21, 2020
Not a morning person, I arose earlier than usual. In the bathroom half asleep, I looked at the sign on . . . Read More
June 14, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener In response to me talking about my depression, a dear and wise friend told me, “Anger is . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | May 31, 2020
Pulling back the curtains, I want to give you an inside look at ALL that is happening behind the scenes. . . . Read More
Inside the World of a Motherless Daughter Teen
Patricia Kuykendoll | May 24, 2020
A motherless daughter teen recently shared this excerpt from a classroom English writing assignment with me. She calls it Seeing . . . Read More
Finding My Own Loving Mother Inside
May 17, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener I have lived a life of sadness because I didn’t have a healthy, loving mother. But, what . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | May 10, 2020
(Savor these precious moments, they fly by too fast) Full-time momma and proud that I am,I can make a castle . . . Read More
May 3, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener I started thinking about calling my mother two days ago. We haven’t spoken or seen each other . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | April 19, 2020
He sits silent and alone, on a quiet night As he deeply ponders the wrongs and rights. The Angels, and . . . Read More
Reflections on the March 2020 Journey Retreat
Mary Ellen Collins | April 19, 2020
It is a few weeks after the scheduled Journey Retreat. Most years I would be writing about all of the . . . Read More
April 12, 2020
by Pat Kuykendoll We are physically present for many events both small and significant for the motherless daughter in our . . . Read More
10 Things I Am Doing To Occupy Myself During My Self-Quarantine
Mary Ellen Collins | April 5, 2020
I am hunkering down. When I heard that the elderly were in the high risk group (elderly being 60+) I . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | March 29, 2020
(Strength coming through) By Cestiny Crowther Within my soul Sit’s a scarred and blackened depth. I cannot reach the rope . . . Read More
March 22, 2020
by Dottie Menkhaus During this time of global crisis of the Corona virus pandemic, it feels like the world is . . . Read More
March 15, 2020
Sharing this blog from one of the leaders in the field of Narcissistic Mothers. Wow does it ever ring true . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | March 8, 2020
(Remember whose you are!) By Cestiny Crowther You cannot help Who you love, Or yet, who loves you. Maintain a . . . Read More
A Genealogy of Strong Dysfunctional Women
March 1, 2020
by Mary Ellen Collins Dysfunction is rooted in generations. Seldom does dysfunction begin in the present but we can trace . . . Read More
February 23, 2020
by Dottie Menkhaus My mother passed away when I was 16, and consequently she has missed all of my achievements . . . Read More
February 16, 2020
by Mary Ellen Collins 2020. That represents either the year we’re in or perfect vision. But it’s a decade year . . . Read More
February 9, 2020
by Kristin Mitchener I recently listened to a guided meditation. One meditative point sticks with me. Whatever you feel, if . . . Read More
January 26, 2020
by Cestiny Crowther All emotion is important, even anger. Ponder with me…. If we were never supposed to feel any . . . Read More
Why I Loved Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
January 19, 2020
By Julie Thompson “It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood. A beautiful day for a neighbor. Would you be mine? . . . Read More
What The Emotionally Absent Mother Class Has Done for Me
January 12, 2020
by JL When I first came to this class, I thought maybe I would just learn a few things. I . . . Read More
Blog Hall of Fame: Top 19 Blogs of 2019
Mary Ellen Collins | January 5, 2020
Every year we take time to pause and reflect on what God has been doing through the Motherless Daughters Ministry. . . . Read More
December 23, 2019
by Dottie Menkhaus The holiday season is a time to gather together family and friends. It is a joyous time . . . Read More
'Frozen II' Hit Me Hard as a Motherless Daughter
Kirsten Clodfelter | December 22, 2019
This essay includes spoilers for Disney’s “Frozen II.” Source: NY Times, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/12/opinion/frozen-2-movie.html When I settled in next to my 7-year-old . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | December 15, 2019
Knowing I would see Mam-ma and Pap-pa saved me from drowning in my chaotic home life. With them I could . . . Read More
Marisa Saenz | December 8, 2019
In certain situations, like stress, I find myself at the grocery store shopping, preparing to make a meal. Cooking has . . . Read More
December 1, 2019
by Dottie Menkhaus Few things are more heart-wrenching than saying that last goodbye to a loved one. My last goodbye . . . Read More
The Stories My Mom Shared With Me
November 24, 2019
by Julie Thompson My mom retired after 35 years of being an elementary teacher. As she was ending her teaching . . . Read More
Kristin Mitchener | November 17, 2019
Struggle: this is a word I am familiar with. Sometimes too familiar. Sometimes way too familiar. Hourly I find myself . . . Read More
It’s Not Supposed To Be This Way
Cathy DiBella | November 10, 2019
Life often looks different from what we had hoped or expected. Some events may catch us off guard for a . . . Read More
November 3, 2019
by Mary Ellen Collins I never touch anyone without permission, because touching can feel threatening. “Is it Ok to hug . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | October 27, 2019
I wrote this poem last year in response to a conversation I had with someone who was feeling insecure in . . . Read More
October 20, 2019
Fifty-five years. Double nickels. This event fifty-five years ago set me on the course to my destination, the Motherless Daughters . . . Read More
Starting a Motherless Daughters Group: Step 5 – Finding Others to Join You
October 13, 2019
by Mary Ellen Collins We have talked about your purpose, creating a firm foundation, telling your story, and choosing a . . . Read More
Touching the Center of My Pain
October 6, 2019
by Mary Ellen Collins Scroll down this link to find the poem. Read this poem first. Then identify what moves . . . Read More
Creating a Nurturing Voice Within
September 29, 2019
by Kristin Mitchener In reading Beverly Engel’s Healing Your Emotional Self, I have remembered so many specific events from my . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | September 22, 2019
I chose to share this poem today as a reminder to anyone who may need to hear it. We all . . . Read More
September 15, 2019
by Mary Ellen Collins How does my inner critic show up in my life? She yells at me. She shows . . . Read More
Starting a Motherless Daughters Group: Step 4 – Choosing a location to meet
September 8, 2019
by Mary Ellen Collins Ponder the location where you will meet with your group. One of the first ideas people . . . Read More
Marisa Saenz | September 1, 2019
What happens to you when life takes a turn for the worse? I, personally, get emotional. Most of the time, . . . Read More
Dottie Menkhaus | August 25, 2019
Occasionally I will take a moment and stare at myself in a mirror and smile. It has nothing to do . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | August 18, 2019
When you grow up in a mess, you tend to be a mess, attract messes, carry a mess around with . . . Read More
STARTING A MOTHERLESS DAUGHTERS GROUP
Mary Ellen Collins | August 11, 2019
Step 3 – Telling Your Story Go here for Step 1 and Step 2 We each have a story to . . . Read More
August 4, 2019
By Marisa Saenz “How can you be so bold to help others when you have so many issues yourself?”, says . . . Read More
Starting a Motherless Daughters Group: Step 2 -- Choosing a Firm Foundation: Faith-based or Not?
Mary Ellen Collins | July 21, 2019
Many of you are considering whether or not you might want your motherless daughters group to be faith-based. When the . . . Read More
Starting a Motherless Daughters Group: Step 1—Getting Started-- Defining Your Purpose
July 14, 2019
By: Mary Ellen Collins Interested in gathering a group of motherless daughters together? Would you like the support of others . . . Read More
Cestiny Crowther | July 7, 2019
Typically, when I write, my words are related to something I am feeling or thinking. Other times, they are related . . . Read More
June 16, 2019
By Mary Ellen Collins Today we celebrate fathers. Fathers play a key role in the psychological development of their daughters . . . Read More
June 10, 2019
By Dottie Jo Menkhaus In my journey as a motherless daughter, I have battled the fear of loss many times. . . . Read More
June 2, 2019
By Dottie Menkhaus Certain days of the year— such as birthdays, anniversaries, and Mother’s Day—are difficult after the loss of . . . Read More
Gladys Bell | May 26, 2019
I was never looking to become a pastor’s wife. That was not my chosen pathway. However, it was the pathway . . . Read More
May 19, 2019
By Cathy DiBella *Watch this video first or this blog will not make sense.” Let me say right here – . . . Read More
May 12, 2019
By Mary Ellen Collins I can’t see. Rain pouring down in buckets. Cats and dogs! Think I will take the . . . Read More
Cestiny Beuerlein Crowther | April 7, 2019
This poem was written in a time that I was fully facing the internal struggle of believing the lie about . . . Read More
The Voice That I Miss The Most
March 31, 2019
By: Julie Thompson It’s been 10 years since I’ve heard her voice. A voice that consistently spoke words of love . . . Read More
March 24, 2019
By: Marisa Saenz (Guest Blogger) When I was younger, I remember the times when my mom would gather all my . . . Read More
A New Look at 2019 Goals - It's All About Me!
March 17, 2019
By: Mary Ellen Collins I think the New Year really starts in March. They changed the calendar; did you get . . . Read More
Anniversary - It's Just Another Day, Right?
March 10, 2019
By: Marisa Saenz (Guest Blogger) Well, here I am again. Three more days, and it will be the anniversary. I . . . Read More
March 3, 2019
By: Beth Corbley (Guest Blogger) “I MADE MY FAVORITE THING FOR DINNER TONIGHT … A RESERVATION.” SALLY ANN CORBLEY, AKA, . . . Read More
February 24, 2019
By: Pam C. (Guest Blogger) Healing is a process. When one suffers trauma, such as from mother loss at a . . . Read More
February 17, 2019
By: DKI (Guest Blogger) Have you, for a brief moment, gone to the deepest darkest place in your grief journey . . . Read More
January 13, 2019
By: Christine Fishel If you’ve seen the 2018 Wonder Woman movie, you know the scene. Wielding a shield, she holds back . . . Read More
December 30, 2018
Every year we take time to pause and reflect on what God has been doing through the Motherless Daughters Ministry. . . . Read More
December 9, 2018
By: Cathy DiBella To all my Motherless Daughters Ministry sisters, As we enter the Christmas season once again, I wanted . . . Read More
2018 World-Wide 40 Day Prayer Covenant for Motherless Daughters
November 25, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins The holidays are just around the corner. Not an easy time when you are grieving the . . . Read More
Either I drive or He does - My Choice
November 11, 2018
By: Cestiny Beuerlein (Guest Blogger) I remember as a teen and young adult, mom always saying, “Girl, get your head out . . . Read More
When It's Hard to See God's Kindness
November 4, 2018
By: Julie Thompson Is your life exactly how you imagined it would be? For me, my life looks very different . . . Read More
October 28, 2018
By: Heather Wolper My doorbell rang on Friday. I had sick kids at home and I was still wearing the . . . Read More
October 7, 2018
By: Julie Thompson You were there at the beginning from my very first breath when my eyes opened to see . . . Read More
September 30, 2018
By: Heather Wolper Tuesday, was my 40th birthday. I woke hopeful and excited anticipating the day ahead. My husband was . . . Read More
September 23, 2018
By: Christine Fishel I’m attacking the almost year-long overgrown flower garden. Golden black-eyed susans have pushed their way through the . . . Read More
Shoulder Taps or Nudges? Which one does it take for you?
September 8, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins Last week I received a Facebook post. The man on the screen tells a story I . . . Read More
September 3, 2018
By: Julie Thompson I write because sometimes I can’t speak Of everything going on inside of me My voice may . . . Read More
August 12, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins *!#&@GRRR! Wreck on 75-Southbound. Wreck on 71-Southbound. Wreck on 275-East. Every path blocked! How am I . . . Read More
August 5, 2018
By: Julie Thompson Sitting in a window seat of a packed flight, I look around and notice that I’m surrounded . . . Read More
July 15, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins Dear You, YES, I SAID YOU! LISTEN UP. IT IS TIME. PICK UP THAT PEN AND . . . Read More
When Life is Hard and Your Mom is Gone
July 8, 2018
By: Heather Wolper My mom has been gone almost 20 years now. It’s been almost half of my lifetime. I . . . Read More
Reflections from the Journey Retreat 2018
June 28, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins First, I want to tell everyone who prayed for the women and the leaders of the . . . Read More
June 24, 2018
By: Christine Fishel Sometimes you get a good look in the mirror, and it’s not pretty. I’m not talking about . . . Read More
June 17, 2018
By: Heather Wolper This has been a year of faith stretching, a year of wandering in the wilderness, a year . . . Read More
Leadership Lessons From Nehemiah
June 10, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins I recently attended a silent retreat. Yes, I said silent. 6 hours of not conversing with . . . Read More
May 13, 2018
By: Heather Wolper Every year as the blue expanse of May sky stretches out above my head and new life . . . Read More
May 9, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins GET READY… Here is comes again! 18 ways to get through Mother’s Day! Here it comes again, . . . Read More
Christine Fishel | May 6, 2018
Dear Strong Woman, I see you. You ask questions, seek answers, and attempt to fix, even as you know it . . . Read More
I Can Only Imagine ... A Father's Love
April 29, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins Last Friday, I saw the movie, I Can Only Imagine. In case you haven’t seen it, . . . Read More
Impatience Is Pride? - 13 Points That Say It Is!
April 15, 2018
By: Mary Ellen Collins I recently heard an expert on biblical truths say that impatience is pride. What? No, I . . . Read More
April 8, 2018
By: Heather Wolper This week I’ve felt the weight of disappointment tugging like a toddler eager for my attention, standing . . . Read More
March 25, 2018
By: Christine Fishel After a period of extreme amounts of loss, I want to hibernate. My sister has attended 7 . . . Read More
Not All Mothers Are A Happy Memory
Anonymous | March 18, 2018
Reflections and Book Review Honestly, I get so tired of seeing on social media, commercials, and especially in Hallmark, how . . . Read More
March 4, 2018
By: Danielle Ilacqua (Guest Blogger) Last year at 1:17 a.m., instead of surfing social media, I sat in a hospital watching . . . Read More
Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out and Lonely
Cathy DiBella (Guest Blogger) | February 11, 2018
Unvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out and Lonely – written by Lysa TerKeurst Most of my family . . . Read More
Cathy Crosby (Guest Blogger) | February 4, 2018
God is the One who I’ve pressed into during difficult times in my career and as I’ve navigated my journey . . . Read More
Finding Hope In Seasons of Waiting
January 28, 2018
By: Heather Wolper Are you in a season of waiting? We’ve all been there. Between us, we’ve waited for jobs, . . . Read More
My Sister: My Gift During a Year of Loss
January 14, 2018
By: Christine Fishel When it struck 12:01 am on January 1, 2018, many people were celebrating the start of a . . . Read More
January 7, 2018
Every year we take time to pause and reflect on what God has been doing through the Motherless Daughters Ministry. . . . Read More
January 3, 2018
By: Julie Thompson On January 1st we have a tendency to reflect upon the previous year and think about what . . . Read More
Your Age of Mother Loss And Its Effects
December 27, 2017
Over the years, the Motherless Daughters Ministry has supported thousands of women on their mother loss journeys. Although our stories . . . Read More
When The Holidays Are Bittersweet
December 10, 2017
By: Julie Thompson Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. As a child, I have fond memories of going with . . . Read More
December 3, 2017
By: Heather Wolper The other day I sat at a red light on my way to the grocery store. As . . . Read More
40 Days of Prayer for Motherless Daughters: 2017
November 26, 2017
By: Mary Ellen Collins I hate the hype of Christmas! Holidays are such a lonely time. The commercialism of the . . . Read More
November 19, 2017
By: Christine Fishel At the end of 2016, I was exhausted from the distress of helping to move my parents . . . Read More
The Day Our Family Experienced A Miracle
November 5, 2017
By: Heather Wolper Last Saturday, after cartoons and breakfast around our kitchen island, my husband found our sweet, ornery, six-year-old . . . Read More
Searching for Joy Without My Mother
Amanda Loduca (Guest Blogger) | November 1, 2017
It seems to me that most of my problems are linked to my mother’s absence. A few examples: My toddler . . . Read More
Will I Ever Be Good Enough? Healing the Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers (Book Review)
October 15, 2017
Book review by: Cathy DiBella (Guest Blogger) “I could not recall attachment, closeness, memories of the scent of Mother’s perfume, . . . Read More
October 8, 2017
By: Heather Wolper Sometimes life hits like a flood, covering land that was fertile and green with deep muddy water. . . . Read More
October 1, 2017
By: Amanda Loduca (Guest Blogger) Everyone who’s lost a mother has a different story to tell. Many are quick to . . . Read More
September 24, 2017
By: Mary Ellen Collins Being obedient to God’s call is not the easiest thing to do. Sometimes I hear His . . . Read More
September 17, 2017
By: Julie Thompson It started off like a typical day at the park. I was walking the trails, listening to . . . Read More
Heather Wolper | September 3, 2017
Summer, with all its lazy wonder and time spent creek wading and cannonballing, is over. And here we are trying . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | August 27, 2017
I have a friend named Kim who just celebrated her 52nd birthday. She is happy and she is scared. This . . . Read More
August 20, 2017
By: Mary Ellen Collins “I CAN SPEAK FOR MYSELF,” creeps into my brain whenever I am interrupted or they attempt . . . Read More
July 30, 2017
By: Danielle Ilacqua (Guest Blogger) I have found that after a life altering experience, a game changer so to speak, . . . Read More
Fall 2017 Lineup of Classes and Events
Mary Ellen Collins | July 23, 2017
We have been diligently working over the summer to create a fantastic fall lineup of classes and events from the . . . Read More
July 16, 2017
By: Christine Fishel My mom received a definitive diagnosis last week. My sister drove us the two-hour drive to mom’s appointment . . . Read More
What's Your Chicken Noodle Soup?
July 2, 2017
By: Danielle Ilacqua (Guest Blogger) I stood in front of the freezer and had another meltdown. The tears streamed down . . . Read More
If You're Losing Your Mom To Dementia...
June 18, 2017
By: Christine Fishel If you are losing your mother to the horror of dementia, let me recommend a book I . . . Read More
Julie Thompson | June 14, 2017
By: Julie Thompson We began the weekend as strangers, but left as friends and sisters in Christ. From the outside . . . Read More
Heather Wolper | June 11, 2017
When my mom was sick, dear friends offered our family an escape from the harsh reality of cancer by the . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | June 7, 2017
I’m taking off my crown. For almost 50 years, I have lived under a curse. “We don’t like you.” “You . . . Read More
June 4, 2017
By: Danielle Ilacqua (Guest Blogger) Feeling like I have the scarlet letter “G” on my chest, I push forward in this . . . Read More
May 21, 2017
By: Christine Fishel I’ve been reading Ann Voskamp’s The Broken Way: A Daring Path Into The Abundant Life. I feel like . . . Read More
May 11, 2017
By: Danielle Ilacqua (Guest Blogger) As Mother’s Day approaches and I see hundreds of commercials for flowers or cards, I just shrink . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | May 10, 2017
Recently I was asked by a new motherless daughter, “Will the pain ever go away?” That is such a very . . . Read More
What Do You Do When God Says, "No?"
May 7, 2017
By: Danielle Ilacqua (Guest Blogger) Let’s face it, none of us are going to get out of this life alive. . . . Read More
April 16, 2017
By: Mary Ellen Collins Last month was an anniversary of sorts. It marks the date the we succeeded. God chased . . . Read More
The Phone Call That Changed My Life
April 10, 2017
By: Julie Thompson There are certain moments in time that change our lives forever. For me, one of those moments . . . Read More
April 2, 2017
By: Mary Ellen Collins F-R-E-E-D-O-M! I am so happy with myself. I am capable. I am competent. I did something . . . Read More
March 29, 2017
By: Heather Wolper Today, I pulled my mother’s steel soup kettle from deep within my kitchen cabinets and prepared to . . . Read More
March 26, 2017
By: Christine Fishel I’m not a poet. And I know it. (See?) But this week I had to find a . . . Read More
March 19, 2017
By: Christine Fishel The first breakthrough I had in my faith was about grace. I had been raised in an . . . Read More
Mary Ellen Collins | March 5, 2017
When you lose a mother, you become a member of the Motherless Daughters Club, a club no one wants to . . . Read More
February 26, 2017
By: Mary Ellen Collins “People become great when they commit to something bigger than themselves” ~ Rick Warren I consider Rick . . . Read More
February 22, 2017
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does . . . Read More
February 13, 2017
By: Christine Fishel I’d been licking my wounds just last weekend. It seemed like a lot—the long-distance caring for my . . . Read More
February 8, 2017
By: Heather Wolper This morning as I was upstairs making my bed, I heard cries from downstairs, “Oh, No!! Mom! . . . Read More
