Meet Meda!

I’d like to introduce myself as your new monthly column writer for The Mom & Caregiver. 

I am a mother of four children, ranging in age from 16 to 32, and each of them has shaped the woman I have become. My oldest daughter and oldest son are building happy, vibrant lives of their own, while my youngest son is a busy, ambitious teenager who keeps our home full of energy and laughter. My 26-year-old son is complex care and palliative, and being his caregiver has profoundly changed my perspective on life, family, resilience and the importance of finding joy in even the smallest moments. 

Alongside motherhood and caregiving, I am also the owner of two local businesses: Country Girl Catering and Preserves, and Country Girl Body Products. Both businesses were built around the values closest to my heart — supporting local farmers, small businesses, sustainability, and creating products with purpose and care. One focuses on “Farm to Pantry,” preserving local food traditions and quality homemade products, while the other embraces “Farm to Skin,” offering small-batch natural body products made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Supporting local is so important to our family. 

Life in our home is rarely quiet. My partner is a firefighter and first responder, so our family understands both the beauty and challenges that come with service, caregiving and balancing demanding roles while trying to remain connected as a family. 

In my monthly column, readers can expect honest conversations about motherhood, caregiving for special needs youth, entrepreneurship, community, resilience, and finding balance in real life — not perfection. I am open and often raw. I hope to share stories, experiences, lessons and encouragement for women and caregivers who are navigating busy, complicated and meaningful lives of their own.

 

 

Meda Riley is a Mother, Palliative Complex Caregiver and Founder of Country Girl Body Products and Country Girl Catering and Preserves.