2008 Mother of the Year—Catherine Hanson
by Staff Writer
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From even before birth, our mothers protect us and care for us. After we’re born, they love us unconditionally — even when we don’t deserve it. Our mothers cheer us on through the hard times and support us through the difficult days; and they are the first ones to celebrate when something good comes our way. One special day out of the year, the nation takes a moment to say, "Thanks, mom!" At Around Town Alpharetta/Milton/Windward magazine, we would like to honor all the mothers who have invested time, love, and effort into their children. Certainly all of our mothers have earned a moment in the spotlight, but Around Town Alpharetta/Milton/Windward wants to take this moment to spotlight one of the mothers in our area.

Catherine Hanson is the mother of two girls and a boy; her youngest, 16 year-old Kevin, nominated her to be Around Town Alpharetta/Milton/Windward’s Mother of the Year. "Raising three kids has been a little bit of a challenge, but it has been very rewarding," shared Catherine. "In today’s world, there are so many things kids have access to. It’s a lot more difficult than when I was growing up, so it’s important to communicate with them, trust them, and believe that what I have taught them will carry them through life."

In advertising and sales for Fortune Magazine for more than 19 years, Catherine understood the value of honesty, loyalty, and hard work, and has passed these values down to her children. After being downsized from Fortune, Catherine began working from home for South Cobb Communications, whose headquarters are located in Alpharetta. "I decided not to continue with the crazy commute and demands placed on me," she explained. "I have the kids for such a short period of time, and I want to enjoy as much time as I have."

"One of the hardest things about being a mother is balancing work and family," she continued. "Wanting the best for my children and being there for them for their competitions as well as their academic and social lives." Despite the challenges she has faced, Catherine has invested in her children and in the future, providing hope and support for a new generation as they learn to grow in themselves and in life. While Catherine Hanson may not be known the world over, she has impacted the world through her children. Catherine’s legacy will live on as her children teach their children the same values they learned from their mother.

On behalf of the Around Town Alpharetta/Milton/Windward staff and community, we would like to thank Catherine and other mothers like her for their dedication and love to their children and the future. Thank you, Catherine, and congratulations!

Kevin, a Milton High School sophomore says about his mother: "She’s the best because she trusts me and lets me live my life freely, and I don’t take advantage of that. She’s really awesome."

Moe, a Milton High School senior adds: "Every time I need help with something, I know I can go to her. She helps me with school, and she gives good advice."

Tricia, a West Carolina University senior sums it all up: "She has always been there to support me — on the tennis court, in the classroom, in life in general. She instilled great values, like being honest and dependable."

My mother, Catherine Hanson, should be the Mother of the Year. She is always there for me when I’m feeling down. No matter if my mom has no time on her hands, my mother takes the time to support everything I do. She drives me to crew and back, even though there might be more important things to be accomplished. My mother is the most precious, caring soul, and never gives up on me. That is why she is more special than any other mom, and she has a special place in my heart and my life. The most important lesson my mother taught me was to be myself. No matter if I get made fun of at school or have a rough day. It’s my personality and the love and respect I have for my mother that keeps me going, and propels me to be the best I can be. I think out of all the mothers being reviewed for Mother of the Year, my mom, Catherine Hanson, deserves the reward. Her love for her family and tender soul makes her the most unique mother, and I admire her very much.