It’s fast approaching…Mother’s Day. I used to think that it was over commercialized and not necessary because isn’t every day a day for a mother???!!!! Heck no!!! After having my little one I realized that there are very few days that are for mothers and sometimes even Mother’s Day is not for mothers. A lot of us are hoping to be asked what we want for Mother’s Day because we know that the people in our lives have no clue about what we want or really need for Mother’s Day because if they did—Mother’s Day would be more a frequent occurrence than just once a year. However, I know some are still not going to ask because then there would be no “surprise”. So here are some suggestions I have based on some of the mothers that are in my life. While mothers are typically a great meld of many different strengths hopefully this will spark inspiration depending on the “type” of mother you are celebrating: THE TIRED MOTHER:
For this mother I would suggest a dinner out at her favorite restaurant (NOT ON MOTHER’S DAY) because as we all know service on Mother’s Day tends to suck and the restaurants are packed. Another option if she has expressed interest (that’s where it pays to listen) is a cooking class. If funds are a factor try cooking her favorite meal—just make sure you clean up the kitchen after you wine and dine her. 😉 Another present that’s is sure to please would be a coupon book (yep it’s been done before) but this would be coupons for free cleanup of the kitchen, free help in the kitchen, or even a coupon for breakfast or dinner in bed. THE CREATIVE/ARTISTIC MOTHER:Creativity is a must for most mothers, as we creatively juggle a 36 hour day worth of activities into a 24 hour day. This mother however had a penchant for making things, or repurposing items and making arts projects. She may even have a side business centered around something she makes or does-like a blog, book, bath salt bombs, soaps, lotions , or hair products. She is always ready to see the potential in mess and clutter. She is the one that the kids run to for last minute projects that are due and she is always able to make something work.
THE SINGLE MOTHER:
Time alone is typically at the top of this mom’s list. Just a moment to void in peace, actually take a bath/shower without racing through to beat the little ones from destroying the house or fighting with each other. A night out with the friends, time to curl up with one of the many good books on her nightstand table that she has every good intention of reading but can’t stay awake long enough to get past page 3. This mother would probably like most mothers love the gift of a photoshoot with her children as she is typically found behind the camera and rarely in front of the camera during memorable times. THE ORGANIZED MOTHER:
Whatever you do...DO NOT buy her an organizer! You will likely get the wrong kind. With all the things she juggles in the air she is likely putting herself last as most mothers/parents due. Giving her an opportunity to put herself first would be a great gift. Shuttling the little ones to play dates, the library, sleep overs, etc would be an awesome gift. This mom also might love a massage, pedicure, manicure, or all-in-one spa day. I hope you found inspiration in the paragraphs above for gift giving to that special mother in your life. Good luck and give your mother a hug for me on her special day!
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Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” — Frederick Douglass. Education has always been a core fundamental principle in my family and one that I strive to instill in my son. When I found out I was pregnant I was ecstatic. One of the first things I purchased for my little one was a book. (The actual first thing I purchased for my baby was a set of onesies with Star Trek themes as a way to announce my pregnancy to my father). I constantly search for books for my little one that will appeal to him, grow his vocabulary, and provide him with new exposures and cultures. I also look for books where he can find himself represented and reflected in the stories. It is so important for me that the stories be authentic and imaginative. I don’t look for the stereotypical story about slavery, segregation, and black historical figures I search beyond that. I search and long for stories that will engage my son and spark his imagination, cultivate his sense of wonderment. Here are a few that I’ve collected: THE KING OF TOO MANY THINGS
A LULLABY OF SUMMER THINGS
CHOCOLATE ME!
WHOSE KNEES ARE THESE
THE WORLD IS AWAKE
The only personal example I have of the SAHM life is my cousin Bethany. First let me say If you aren’t following her on YouTube you are missing out on a treat, she’s on a slight hiatus right now with her new babies—2 little girls and her new business—Texas Reign. However when she is back on YouTube you will find that she’s hilarious, a bit country, and very resourceful. You can check out her previous vlogs here. After I had my son and had to return to work my jealousy of her only increased. At first I was jealous of her for 3 reasons:
Now I had to add a fourth reason: She has the ability to be a stay at home mom while I don’t. I would love the be able to stay at home and raise my son, however that is not a possibility for me long term as a single mother who is not independently wealthy. I would dream that her days at home were better than my days at work. I would imagine that she was cooking delicious meals from scratch for her family every day while I was reheating food precooked on the weekend if I was lucky or getting fast food if the meal didn’t cover the whole work week or I didn’t have time to preplan. I imagined that she was more rested than I was and was able to engage more with her child. I realized that subconsciously I was guilty of making assumptions just like the “Transformed Wife”. While the grass appears greener on the other side it wasn’t. I soon realized from the brief conversations that she and I were able to have with both our hectic schedules that we have a lot in common in adapting to our new roles as mothers. Often there is a pitting of SAHM (Stay At Home Mothers) against WOHM (Working Outside The Home Mothers). Motherhood is not a competition; it’s a journey to be shared with others. As I have temporarily changed my role from a WOHM to SAHM I am blessed to enjoy this new season of my life and I truly cherish the gift and opportunity realizing the grass isn’t greener on the other side it’s just different and has to be cared for differently.
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AuthorEmbracing my imperfection and striving for perfection through grace. Archives
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