Monday, May 4, 2009

Mother's Day

When we remember that Mother’s Day is coming soon, we typically think of our own mothers, or of being mothers ourselves. But this year, turn the wheels a bit. Think about a friend going through a rough time. Can he/she take care of necessary prep to honor his/her mother? Or do your friend’s children need some help fussing over their mom?

Give your friend with small children a call and ask to have a playdate. Bring the children to your house and let them decorate cards for Mom. Stickers, fancy scissors, glue sticks, some construction paper, a hole punch and some ribbon will keep little ones entertained for quite awhile, and you’ll love seeing their creativity! Help them trace their hands, or if you really are adventurous, allow them to dip their hands in fingerpaints to make pictures for Mom.

You will be giving your friend incredible gifts. One – the gift of a free afternoon – time that can be spent making phone calls the children do not need to overhear. Or time spent taking a carefree nap! Or perhaps time to run errands alone – what a gift to a mom with little ones. The gifts from the children will be cherished forever, and your part will be appreciated so much!

If your friend is a single dad, remind him to do something with his children to acknowledge their mom this Mother’s Day. Sometimes the tensions between divorced parents can be difficult, so do your part to bridge a gap for the sake of the kids. Nobody needs to submit nominations for a Mother of the Year Award – just allow children to glow from their own hearts. Everyone will benefit!

Perhaps your friend’s mother has passed away. Mother’s Day can be especially difficult, particularly the first few Mother’s Days without Mom. Send a note, an email, or make a phone call letting your friend know you are thinking of him/her, and mention something specific about his/her mom.


Today's Quote: The best advice from my mother was a reminder to tell my children every day: "Remember you are loved." --Evelyn McCormick