Mother's Day Notes

my three, on a beach in my hometown (2026)

It's Mother's Day, and I'm happy.

I've heard it said that you should take care to use the word "feel" before your emotions to remind yourself that they are fleeting and not inherent to you. I am happy. I feel happy. For me, the former seems more accurate.

On Mother's Day six years ago, I was living in Astoria, probably doing very little because it was COVID times, and that was life back then. Five years ago, I was overwhelmed and struggling with new motherhood.

Four years ago, my oldest took his first steps on Mother's Day, while I watched, pregnant again. Three years ago, we snuggled in bed, a family of four, then walked among purple flowers in my hometown.

Two years ago, I was pregnant (again, again) nervous but not quite afraid of embarking on three under four. We walked through the woods and ate cookies while the older two collected rocks.

Last year, our family felt complete. We went to the aquarium, and all three kids were fascinated by the sharks while I pushed through the postpartum exhaustion to enjoy the day together.

Today, this morning, I'm lying in bed. My five year old has showered me with love and special treats all weekend, including two breakfasts in bed that he recruited my husband to help him make. When I asked if he learned at school that he should be extra nice this weekend, he said, "Sure did!"

Having small kids in a new town can feel isolating. Having kids anywhere, of any age, is challenging and all-encompassing. But lately, as mine get older, I just feel lucky.

For some moms, today is one of rest and relaxation. For others, it's time spent with family, friends, or just their own children, who maybe they haven't seen in a while. There are a million shades of motherhood, and we all need different things to feel loved today.

Cheers to all of us out there doing the work to raise the next generation. This day is for us. May we each enjoy whatever we need most on this day of strength, appreciation, and solidarity in the journey.

And gratitude, of course, for every personal sacrifice made for our families and humanity's future, which simply would not exist without mothers.