hen you
think of
a mother
what comes to mind? The
person you call when you
have good news? The
person who holds you while
you cry? The person who
worked hard and handled the
housework and the bills while
somehow simultaneously
keeping up with everyone’s
schedules? No matter what your
memory conjures when you
think of the word “mom,”
there’s no denying they work
hard and make incredible
sacrifices every day. They
care for us when we’re sick,
10 May 2016 washingtonFAMILY.com
pack hundreds of school
lunches, help us with our
homework and make sure we
have everything we need. As
we grow up, they’re only a
phone call away for advice and
motherly wisdom.

Washington FAMILY
Magazine thinks moms are not
celebrated nearly enough for
all they do for their workplaces,
families and communities.

They’ve given so much, and
we think it’s time we showed
them some well-deserved
recognition! We asked our readers to
nominate a mom in their lives
they felt deserved this honor.

We had an influx of entries,
all describing amazing and
talented local mothers.

These 12 women have
persevered, overcome, created
and inspired. Each of them has
a unique story to tell, and we’re
excited to have the chance to
share them with you. Meet our
Moms of the Year!



Danielle Larkins
Mom to Justin, age 5
and Nicolas, age 4
Vienna, VA
Nominated by Tim Larkins
Danielle is the definition of giving
and the embodiment of selflessness.

In addition to raising two active,
respectful preschoolers and keeping
a tidy ship, Danielle is helping out
other moms in the community.

Even though she’s overworked
and exhausted from managing her
children, home and successful blog,
www.typedblog.com, I see her
cooking a second meal for another
family, babysitting a friend’s kids or
gathering blankets to literally clothe
the homeless in D.C.

What’s the best parenting
advice you’ve ever received?
My mom once told me, “Never
be lazy as a parent.” That’s
always been a good mantra for
me because it reminds me that
my efforts and actions will pay
off, even if I’m doubtful (and
exhausted) at that moment.

by playing peek-a-boo. Not only was it
cute, but it also showed me that tender
side I don’t always get to see at home.

My second favorite moment was
hearing Nicolas say he wants to be just
like me. I remember thinking, “Is this a
parenting win?”
What advice would you give to
new or expectant mothers?
Oh man, there’s lots I’d love
to say. My first piece of advice is the
importance of one-on-one time with
each child. I try to do this every day
with my kids, even if it’s just 10-15
minutes. It’s great “bonding” time and
shows them I care, and my kids behave
better for the rest of the day.

My second advice is to carve out
time for yourself, regularly. I spent WAY
too much time putting myself last, and I
burned myself out. I eventually realized
I didn’t need to lose myself and my
hobbies just because I’m now caring
for others.

How has motherhood changed
your outlook on life?
Motherhood’s provided me with
purpose. It’s given me lots to look
forward to and helped me appreciate
the little things. It’s almost as if I’m
seeing life through the lens of a child
again; lots of novelty, excitement and
exploration. Describe a favorite mom moment.

The other day, I saw Justin try to
cheer up a boy he just met at the park,
who was crying. He got down on the
ground and tried to make him laugh
What goals do you have for
your children?
My goal is for them to find their
passion, pursue it and be the best at
it. I also want them to contribute to
the community, or even the world, in a
positive way.

What are some of your greatest
accomplishments? As a mother, it’s raising empathetic
and respectful kids. Professionally,
it’s having my writing published in the
Washington Post’s “On Parenting” and
being asked to appear on Fox 5 D.C.

several times.

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