What is a Mother? started as a poem in tribute to Vanessa's (the author) mother. It was recited at the Retirement Party in her mother's honor. The sentiment captured in the words of the poem was so endearing that Vanessa decided to create a book. Mothers are special and they deserve to be celebrated, to be lifted up for all that they do to love, inspire, encourage, and nurture their families and their communities. The net proceeds of this project benefit scholarships and programs created in her parents' honor.