Honey

Vol. 2, No. 58

You’re reading Modern Motherhood Musings, a weekly newsletter written from one mom to another. Each week I share an honest reflection on motherhood and a collection of things bringing me joy. Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

This Week's Musing
two women standing in front of a Dolly Parton sign

We lost my grandmother this week, who we lovingly called “Honey”.

She was an extraordinary woman—someone everyone loved. A master hostess, she never let a special occasion pass without a celebration. She had the best Southern drawl, gave the biggest bear hugs, and never left the house without her hair done and her lipstick on.

She was one of my best friends. During my college years, her house became my home for holidays like Thanksgiving and Easter. She was the only person I knew who loved lounging around, watching movies, and eating popcorn as much as I did. We were two peas in a pod, binge-watching the Hallmark Channel late into the night.

So many of the things I love in life were shaped by her. My love for cooking and hosting, my commitment to never skipping a night of skincare, and my deep admiration for strong women like Dolly Parton and Kate Middleton—all of it traces back to her. In the past few years, we had a standing weekly phone call, catching up on what I was cooking, which new skincare product we were going to try next, and, of course, dissecting the latest Harry and Meghan drama. I’m going to miss those calls so much.

She was the matriarch of our family, the glue that held us together. What a privilege it is as women to become mothers and, one day, grandmothers—to step into that role of guiding, nurturing, and keeping traditions alive.

She remembered birthdays and made sure the rest of the family did, too. She played judge and jury over family disputes—not by taking sides, but by offering wisdom. She carried our family traditions with grace, infusing them with her wit and warmth.

As a mother, I hope to carry on her legacy so that my children continue to know her through me. I hope to honor the traditions she built while creating new ones of my own. And one day, I hope to become the kind of matriarch she was—strong, steady, and endlessly loving.

What is something special about your grandparents that you carry with you to this day?

Friday Favorite's

🍣 This Bang Bang Salmon recipe was recommended by my friend Jessica who said that in her tired mom opinion, it was fantastic!

🧵 All of the cute monogram items I’ve bought for my kids have come from Thread Head Designs, and she just launched a new website! I’ve bought everything from coverups for the pool to first day of school shirts. Her work is truly the best!

📖 I’ve been in a reading rut lately, but just picked up this Carley Fortune book and can’t put it down! It’s a rom-com set on a perfect a picturesque summer island.

Happy Friday, Friends! I hope you all have a great weekend!

Love Briana

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