Memoirs from your Mother - a gift that keeps treasured memories alive
Life is short, and time often slips away before we realize how much we still need to share or wish we could remember about our loved ones.
With this in mind, inspirational book compiler, Anné Pretorius, embarked on a special project to create a journal that mothers can use to document their stories or life journeys with their children – a precious gift that not only makes the grieving process a little easier but also ensures that their memories, wisdom, and love continue to live on long after they’re gone.
MEMOIRS FROM YOUR MOTHER (also available in Afrikaans as Memoires van Jou Moeder) is a thoughtfully designed book that serves as a guide for mothers to document their life stories, creating a cherished keepsake for their loved ones.
Born from the compiler’s own deeply emotional experience with her late mother’s handwritten memoirs, this work offers an opportunity for families to preserve their heritage and memories across generations.
She shares:
“My own mother wrote her memoirs for me, so I know how precious it is, especially after her passing. She shared memories from her life and our relationship that I would not have known about, had she not been brave enough to put them to paper.”
This experience deeply influenced her decision to create a book that would make it easier for other mothers to preserve their stories for their children, offering a chance to leave a legacy filled with love and life lessons.
“The program can inspire mothers, fathers and war veterans to document their legacies. With these books I want to make it easier for others to remember and to write. I believe it will be of as much value to them as it has been to me.”
Structured as an interactive journal, MEMOIRS FROM YOUR MOTHER features eight carefully crafted chapters, each starting with a thought-provoking poem and adorned with exquisite artwork by renowned South African artist Marié Vermeulen-Breedt.
The book guides mothers through a reflective journey, with prompts designed to inspire women to document their personal journeys, memories, and life experiences. A sturdy envelope inside the book allows for the preservation of meaningful memorabilia, such as photos, letters, voice messages, and a world map to mark significant travels.
“Because writing is a therapeutic outlet for me, I believe it can be for others too. Sometimes, all you need is a little inspiration to start telling your story,”
she says.
This book is not just a writing exercise but a deeply personal and therapeutic tool for self-discovery and connection, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to record their life story.
MEMOIRS FROM YOUR MOTHER is a perfect gift for a variety of occasions, including baby showers, birthdays, Mother’s Day, and Women’s Day. Its durable and beautiful design ensures that it will become a treasured keepsake, passed down through generations.
"Thank you, thank you, this is a wonderful gift for my friends."
Liana Lewis, eMalahleni.
"I just want to say thank you very much, I received the journal. This is a gift for my 86-year-old mum. After a very difficult year for us as a family and the loss of my father - and my mother her soul mate, I think this book is going to lighten her days, something to look forward to and take her back on her life path up to here. What a great thought!”
Marisáne, Pretoria.
"Anné, everyone who sees this memoire of yours says what a beautiful book it is and how it is such a brilliant idea!"
Lizma Schoeman, Somerset East.
Anné is also expanding her mission by hosting memoir-writing workshops aimed at inspiring others to embark on their own storytelling journeys.
“I find great joy in this process of motivating parents to record their lives. It has brought meaning to my life,”
she shares.
She grew up in Marble Hall and is a proud BCom graduate of the University of Pretoria. She and her husband, Stéfan, previously farmed citrus in Toitskraal, where she managed the export operations of their 250-hectare farm.
Now residing in Kameelfontein, Pretoria, Anné dedicates her time to charitable endeavours and her passion for writing. As the mother of two teenage daughters, Enya (16) and Lua (15), she draws constant inspiration from her family.
In addition to her passion for books and history, this dynamic lady is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She actively supports various charitable organizations, including initiatives focused on literacy, education, and mental health.
Hosting workshops aimed at empowering young writers and fostering a love for literature, is definitely on her to do list for the future. She believes that the act of storytelling holds immense power in shaping lives, and she continues to work tirelessly to help others unlock their own stories.
The book’s cover artwork features Anné, Marié Vermeulen-Breedt’s granddaughter. Anné’s mother, Adelai Alberts is the founder of Ad&Co. The company’s aim is to provide work opportunities for individuals with disabilities like Anné. The bags the books are sold in, featuring the same artwork, further cements the special meaning behind this collaboration.
“Writing your life story may feel intimidating, but it has immense value. Every story is unique, and this book is here to help you to capture yours, for your children,”
Anné concludes, emphasizing the importance of preserving one’s personal history.
This DIY legacy journal is published and distributed by Naledi. It is available online and at selected bookshops nationwide, ensuring that a wide audience can access its meaningful message.
She is very excited about her upcoming book, Memoires van 'n Soldaat, that is set for release in May 2025.
