Mothers deserve recognition today and everyday. Changes in the body carrying a child, labor, nights of tending to sick children, worry and prayer, etc. are things all mothers will go through. But what does it mean to be an Appalachian Mother?

This picture is of my (Melody) great grandmother. We called her Granny Hawkins and when I think of her life, I think of the strength of Appalachian Mothers and how in so many ways the same attributes have been passed down, even though times have changed. Granny Hawkins was tough as nails. She kept a shotgun by her side, ready to defend her home and family from intruders (animal or human).

Appalachian Mommas have always had to be tough. My granny, like a lot of women, tended to the home and children alone a lot because the men were gone so much for work. My great grandpa traveled with the railroad and would be gone for weeks at a time. Appalachian Mommas have always had to be independent.

I know my Granny, my Grandma, and my own Momma have faced so much loss in their life. Things we can’t begin to comprehend as humans. But faith and strength pulled them through. How many of us know (or knew) Momma is the one you go to when you feel like you can’t go on? And so many times be directed to prayer and scripture. Appalachian Mommas have always been faithful.

There’s a reason “granny witches” were called granny instead of grandpa. Most of these healers/midwives were women. In our isolated mountains, women had to be smart and innovative to take care of others. They weren’t going to bury their heads when someone was hurting, sick, or even dying. They found ways to heal the ones around them. Appalachian Mommas have always been selfless caregivers.

Today and everyday, let’s appreciate the women in our lives who have made us who we are and cared for us at our lowest times. Being Appalachian is something ingrained in all of us. We all have amazing strengths, but let’s admit it, none of us would be here today without our Mothers.