Mother’s Day Traditions When Things Have Changed

Things have changed in our world, to say the least: and this is how we’re keeping up with our Mother’s Day traditions.

I hope you all had a very special Mother’s Day this year, even though it was very different. I was lucky to receive some handmade treasures from my twins, beautiful cards from all my sons, and tea and warm Eggos were waiting for me when I got up.  Oh, and I can’t forget the daffodils my husband picked for me with my boys and placed on the table. For some of you, this might not seem like a big deal, but it was just perfect for me. I was happy to know my boys thought ahead of time and planned a little something for me. It showed me they cared and truly, it doesn’t take much to show someone you care.

We have never done anything too grand for Mother’s Day. When my mother was alive, we made sure to go out for brunch. It was always at a nice hotel or fancy restaurant, so it was a really special event, once a year. Maybe that’s why I like brunches so much; it reminds me of her.

As you know, brunches out are not happening, as we are all staying home to help stop the spread of COVID-19. I know if my parents were alive now, not being able to see them would have been the hardest thing of all. I lived away from Montreal for three years, in Italy, and every day I spoke with my mom. She was truly my first and best friend and I miss her so much.

Mother’s Day is not as fantastic for everyone, for various reasons. It can be hard to wake up to tons of family photos, or glamourous gifts received on social media. It is not the reality for many people. I tend to stay away from social for most of the day. As happy as I am to be a mother, not having my mama with me is sad.

I was invited to talk with Shawn Apel on CBC Radio Noon Quebec for their Mother’s Day segment. It’s a one-hour discussion and Shawn asked me a few things about my Mother’s Day and how it will be different.

As I mentioned, I think one of the most important things we can do as families right now (and always) is to keep celebrating special days. It might be hard, it might sound silly given our confinement, but it is an acknowledgment that we are all important, worthy of celebrating and special in our own family. I am finding new ways to celebrate with my boys these days. I think it will help us all. What ways have you found to celebrate at home?