Welcome to The Motherland

I was hesitant to start blogging. Though I’m a writer at heart and by trade, I figured an extra voice in the already-saturated market was unnecessary. For years I held out but eventually, I figured I’d throw my hat into the ring and see what happens. Since the incarnation of my first blog in 2011, My Big Fat Polish Wedding I’ve tried to create content that felt authentic and true to me. Chronicling my wedding had a natural endpoint so I moved on to a more lifestyle type blog with I’d Absolutely Love To in 2013. Though I enjoyed writing about fashion and travel, as I grew in my personal and professional life I knew I wanted to expand my repertoire.

After months and months of soul searching and at the same time some good (and bad) life occurrences I realized that an outlet that would truly encapsulate me would have to incorporate the many facets of my character. I was determined to find a way to use my passion for writing in a meaningful and impactful way. Finally, it was out with the old (site name) and in with the new. After a long hiatus from blogging I’m back.

Alas, The Motherland was born.

 

My sister once asked me if I had only one thing that people could remember me by what would it be? My answer: that I’m Polish. My heritage and culture are woven within me, an integral part of my life and being. I got to thinking about the multifaceted nature of our country, the great melting pot that is the United States of America. If I was so intrinsically connected to my heritage and its influence on both my upbringing and my present existence, I wondered how many others felt the same way. I was fascinated by how our experiences shape our lives and those of our children, and set us up on the paths that we then follow.

The Motherland aims to highlight those stories. Stories of immigrants from across the globe who came to America with a vision and have adapted to the changing landscape. I want to show what first, second, third generations and beyond are doing to maintain their customs and simply live their lives in an increasingly changing world.

At the same time, the name Motherland also applies quite literally to my newest role of new mom. I’d love to share my perspectives on parenting (so far!) and also feature other voices discussing topics related to kids, motherhood, fatherhood and much more.

My goal is for this site to cover a multitude of topics with a multitude of voices. I want to show stories of families of all shapes and sizes — families that are navigating the waters of mixed cultures and languages, to those simply savoring their heritage in smaller ways, with family recipes and unique traditions. (Please contact me if you’re interested in being featured!)

At the same time, I don’t want to forget the playful nature that lives within all of us. You’ll still be able to find fashion and travel posts here, mixed with other unique lifestyle content.

My blogging journey has been several years in the making and to commemorate that path I’ve combined the best of all my worlds into a one-of-a-kind place that highlights all the facets that make us who we are. Welcome to The Motherland.