Making Mother's Day

Written by Jennifer Redmond

Blog

Mother's Day is like New Year's Eve. Some of us look forward to it. Some of us hate it. Those moms seasoned enough with motherhood's ups and downs would rather be asleep.

And so it goes.

With 18 years of motherhood experience, I am qualified to weigh in on this one. Today, as I look back on yet another Mother's Day, I have to shake my head and laugh at the noble idea officially christened in 1914. If you expect the Hallmark version of Mother's Day each year, then go ahead and wait for the next flight to Neverland. Like motherhood itself, Mother's Day is unpredictable. To get that perfect relaxing day, you need to plan it yourself...and honestly, choose another day and keep it a secret.

This has been my tactic for the past few years and it has worked beautifully. During the week before or after Mother's Day, I spend a guilt-free day as I choose. It may be as simple as browsing garden stores or meeting a friend for breakfast or reading a book. But whatever I do, I keep it to myself. And one caveat stands: no laundry, cooking, grocery shopping or work for which I get paid. Carpools and emergency calls from school cannot be controlled.

I am fortunate enough to have both a mother and a mother-in-law to honor each year on Mother's Day. But as with every blessing, I never know when that will change. Thus, I think of Mother's Day as theirs. If I can spend a few hours working in the yard or quietly enjoying my own family, that's great. If it's crazy busy, rains, the kitchen catches on fire or a child is vomiting, so be it. Two of those did happen yesterday. Let's just say that everyone seems to be feeling better today. And I did get to see my own mom (ever so briefly) and my mother-in-law as well.

So love your kids and appreciate the years of homemade cards, painted rocks and scrambled eggs. Thank God for the gift of children. If your own Mother's Day didn't live up to your preconceived notions, if your family was clueless or the basement flooded, change your thinking and honor another deserving mother next year.

Then plan your own day of rest and hope for the best.