Writer and maternal inspiration, Randi Latzman, uses her own journey through motherhood to guide fellow mamas through the rollercoaster ride of raising a child. This is poetry for mothers, by a mother who has seen it all. 

Contents Section I They Placed You in My ArmsI Was the FirstYou Inspire MeA Mother’s LoveMotherhood Showed MeYou Are Beautiful in Every WayMotherhood IsMothers KeepI Didn’t RealizeYou Are the ReasonI’m a MomI Feel Everything, My ChildI Was Chosen to Be Your MomAlwaysEvery DayMy Greatest PrivilegeI Will Always Believe in YouYou Will Always Have My HeartMotherhood Is Messy Section II We Are MothersA Mother’s InstinctsMy Daughter Needs MeI PromiseLove ThemMoms CompareI Am a Flawed MotherWe Show Our KidsSome DaysI Will Never Be the Perfect MomMotherhood Is HardMotherhood Is Filled with ContradictionsI Am Human. I Am a Mother.I’m Forgiving MyselfI Am a Mother Who Is ExhaustedThe Demands of Motherhood Are HighI’m Not a Perfect MomAm I Doing This All Wrong? Section III You Will Always Be My BabyI Look at YouHolding OnThe StrangerI Am a Mom Who Always Says, “I Love You”She Is Her Own PersonThe Most Precious GiftYou Are Never AloneShe Is My DaughterI Hope She KnowsCarry That LoveYou Are My Greatest TeacherYou Will Always Be My HeroNo Matter Your AgeWhen You Think of MeA Stolen HeartForever And Always, My Baby You’ll BeEverlasting About the Author

“We love sharing Randi's poems with our Her View From Home community. Our readers easily relate to her heartfelt words about motherhood. It's the kind of connection we all need. Any mother who reads From the Heart of a Mother is sure to find a piece of themselves inside.” —Leslie Means, bestselling author of So God Made a Mother and founder/owner of Her View From Home, LLC “Reading Randi’s poems is like chicken soup to a mother’s soul. They're raw, honest, and vulnerable. After reading one, I find myself nodding in agreement or touching my heart like I just had an encouraging or heartfelt conversation with a good friend. I feel seen and comforted. Her words speak to women everywhere, reminding us how beautiful motherhood is while letting us know we aren't alone through the challenging parts. Every mother needs her book.” —Danielle Sherman-Lazar, creator of Living Full and author of It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Adults Get Big Feelings Too “Randi’s words and poems have been touching my heart for years now. She is able to capture the powerful emotions that come with motherhood and help us feel fully seen, less alone. Randi also shares openly about life’s challenges and offers hope and light for the journey. What a gift that her words will now be in a book, able to bless so many more who need them.” —Sydnei Kaplan, author of The Heaven Phone “Randi is a true talent, and her words are a balm for a weary mother’s soul. They are vulnerable and honest, beautifully capturing this life experience. Without a doubt, Randi will prove to be a literary powerhouse. Many of her quotes are already well-known and beloved across the internet, and I foresee her many readers and followers (not to mention a number of influential writers and content creators) sharing this book far and wide. You hold a smash hit in your hands.” —Cassie Gottula Shaw, founder of Girl, I’ve Got You and author of Dream Chaser: Live Big, My One Year Old Boy “Randi’s stunning poetry captures the highs and lows of motherhood with a grace that makes us feel seen. Her words perfectly portray the deep emotions of a mom, particularly how minute-by-minute we can feel blessed and broken and everything in between.” —Christine Derengowski, writer “I am thrilled to wholeheartedly endorse Randi and her incredible writing. Randi has a unique gift for capturing the essence of motherhood, navigating the challenges of parenting, and addressing the crucial aspects of mental wellness. Her poetry resonates deeply, offering a genuine and compassionate perspective on the multifaceted journey of motherhood. “Her ability to tackle topics such as relationships, hardships, and trauma with sensitivity and authenticity sets her apart. Through her words, she provides a source of comfort and understanding for those navigating the complexities of parenthood. Her insights not only shed light on the struggles many face but also offer practical guidance and a sense of solidarity. “Navigating motherhood is no easy feat, and Randi's poems serve as a beacon of support for mothers everywhere. Whether you're seeking advice, empathy, or simply a moment of reflection, Randi's words are a must-read. “In a world where the challenges of parenting can be overwhelming, Randi’s writing stands out as a source of inspiration and encouragement. Her poetry is a testament to the strength and beauty found in the shared experiences of motherhood.” —Jennifer Thompson, author of If We’re Being Honest “Randi’s encouraging words are what mothers need to get through these long, challenging days and sometimes even longer nights. Her poems are a burst of fresh air, allowing us to feel seen and understood. They touch my heart each and every time.” —Whitney Fleming, author and co-owner of Parenting Teens & Tweens “Randi writes so honestly and openly about the real struggles of life, relationships, and motherhood. She’s a truth-teller for women, and that’s important. We’re all desperate to hear more truth.” —Mikala Albertson, MD, author of Ordinary on Purpose: Surrendering Perfect and Discovering Beauty Amid the Rubble “Randi’s beautiful words help us all know that we are never alone. She helps us all to see the light in the darkness and the joy in the hard and the mess. In a world of impossible standards, Randi reminds us we are enough and that we can not only survive but thrive in this season of motherhood, just exactly as we are.” —Amy Betters-Midtvedt, educator and author of You’ll Make It and They Will Too: Everything No One Talks About When Parenting Teens “Poetry by Randi Latzman offers a safe landing space for the hearts of all mothers. Her honest, raw, and inspirational words feel universal and yet so personal, as if she’s speaking right into the reader’s own soul. Her empowering pieces are so needed by mothers today, allowing their journeys to feel acknowledged and appreciated. Randi’s words are truly a gift.” —Mehr Lee, writer at Raise Her Wild “Randi Latzman is one of my very favorite 'motherhood' writers. She is able to express feelings and experiences that we all walk through and relate to in our journeys raising children. But she does so in such a beautifully poetic way. She leaves her readers nodding their heads in understanding, feeling less alone and validated in their path, and warmed by her artistic expression. Her poems lift and celebrate women in their motherhood, while weaving a sense of connection among one another.” —Emily Roussell, children's book author of Rock You Tonight “Randi Latzman’s words on motherhood will touch every cell in your body. She writes with a compassion and grace to remind us all why motherhood is both our greatest and most challenging work.” —Celeste Yvonne, author of It's Not About the Wine: The Loaded Truth Behind Mommy Wine Culture “Randi Latzman’s poetry pays tribute to motherhood and, most importantly, every stage and every age. From expectant new moms to the grace of grandmothers, From the Heart of a Mother is lyric, lovely and deeply meaningful, Brava!” —Becca Anderson, author of The Women's Book of Prayer

Firstborn It was you whose flutter in my belly left imprints in my heart. It was you whose kick awakened something deep within my soul. It was you who grew within me as I grew too. It was you that felt so unknown, but also so familiar. It was you that showed me the miracles of my body. It was you that left me breathless as I held you in my arms. It was you whose cry from trembling lips left me in waves of despair. It was you who showed me how deeply I could love. It was you who first locked eyes with me and whispered “Mama.” It was you who gave me the most humbling and awe-inspiring role. It was you who left me with crippling doubt and endless uncertainty. It was you that forever changed me. It was you. My firstborn. Holding On I know I have to let you go as you get older, but I’m focusing on holding on. Holding on to being your biggest fan and cheerleader. Holding on to the warmth of your smile and the sound of your laughter. Holding on to feeling so deeply, no matter your age. Holding on to how grateful I am to be your mom. Holding on to the twinkle in your eyes when I tell you that I love you. Holding on to the promise that I will always offer you guidance, advice, and support. Holding on to carrying you in my heart, wherever you may go. Holding on to the beauty of the past, the gift of the present, and the joy of the future. Holding on to the feeling of your head gently resting on my shoulder. Holding on to the unconditional love between a mother and a child. Holding on to the privilege of raising an amazing person. Holding on to the reality that letting you go doesn’t mean that I can’t hold on to all of these things. So I can let go. But know I will always be there holding on.