Last week my family had an emergency, I unexpectedly had to go to the hospital. My first call was to my husband to let him know he needed to pick up the kids. My second call was to my Mom, who lives 2 hours away. Once I got her on the phone, I didn’t even know why I was calling. Really, I think I called to tell her that I was sick and scared. Really, I think I just wanted to hear her voice. She was at our house the next day, in all her Grandma glory, giving my family a sense of peace in a chaotic time. Thankfully I was released from the hospital the next day, but my recovery was 100% only possible because she stayed and helped our family carry on with school and work. My kids thrive on routine and she didn’t skip a beat. So basically, she saved me. Again.
It's a running joke between us that someone is either in the hospital or going to the doctor every time she visits. The biggest joke is that it's the truth. I tell her all the time that I wouldn’t make it without her. But it's these emergency moments that really make me stop and properly appreciate the amazing Mom and Grandma in our lives.
Now that I am a Mommy, I see my Mom’s sacrifices much differently. I think about all the tears I’ve cried as a Mom, both happy and sad, and know that my Mom cried those same tears. All my pains and fears, she had those same pains and fears raising me. I always saw her working, and now I understand how constant life with kids is. How tired she was all those nights, but she still listened when I needed her. I am so lucky to have a Mom so dedicated to being the best Mom she can be. I’m so lucky to have a Mom to show me how to be the best Mom I can be.
Recently, I've had the pleasure of meeting few other heroic Grandmas who share similar stories to my Mom. They come from out of town regularly to babysit and give their adult children a break. Or another Grandma who retired so that she can help with child care full-time through the week. And another that is MOVING to Louisville because it's easier than the 7 hour drive they make every few weeks. I’m in awe of the time and sacrifice these women are so willing to make for their kids and grandkids. They are the first to show up when the going gets tough and the last to leave, making sure there’s left overs to heat up later when you’re hungry.
These women, like my own Mom, always put others first and rarely take any time for themselves. So, this Mother’s Day, it’s our job to make sure that we go that extra mile for them to make their days special. Here’s some simple ways to make your gifts a little sweeter:
- Book it! If you are getting her a pedicure or other pamper experience, go the extra step and get it scheduled. Make sure that gift certificate does get put somewhere to use later because her feet hurt now.
- Subscriptions! The gift that keeps on giving. If your awesome lady has a passion, consider a subscription that will send little gifts over 3-12 months. Each time a package arrives it's a little reminder of how much you care.
- Does Mommy have a favorite store? Take Mom shopping this Sunday, or schedule a future shopping trip if you are getting gift cards, so she can shop while relaxed with time to look for herself.
- Time is a luxury. Moms be all over the place, all the time, chasing all the kids. Give her time to read a book, get crafty, or maybe even a bubble bath with at home spa goodies.
- Make it personal. My Mom doesn’t wear jewelry anymore, but she does love her plants. Make sure your gifts are changing with Mom or Grandma’s interests.
Have a great Mother’s Day weekend. Make some memories and tell your Mom how much you love her!
