thoughts on mothering

I've been thinking a lot about Mothers Day since Sunday.  

Like Kate, I didn't have all the clan here this year. Two of them are a little further away - one building up his business in Melbourne and the other all the way up in Walgett NSW working on a wheat farm. But the rest of our children were here to help eat, drink and be merry, including my 'adopted' son..... a family friend, who slotted in amongst them all a long time ago and has a little piece of my heart, too! 

When we had lots of little ones, there were hand made cards and home made gifts as well as the occasional purchased gift instigated by the Best Man. And always tea and toast in bed with babies and toddlers snuggling close and begging bites. But somehow as my children have gotten older, my expectations of Mothers Day have risen and sadly, haven't always lived up to my grand expectations. It should be all about ME.... shouldn't it? And everyone should worship at my feet for all the things I do for them all year, yes? 

Well, this year I decided to gratefully appreciate the day how ever it came and to accept the flow no matter what. This was the first year that not all the children were here and it did make me a little sad to think that from now on there will likely be one or more, missing. I accept that too though I guess it will get easier as time goes on. 

Later in the day I read Tanya's post (and sweet words in my comments) and I realised why I had been missing the essence of Mothers Day........ because it's not about me as a mother and everyone being grateful for my mothering. No, it's about me being grateful for the opportunity to be a mother.

I feel privileged that seven little souls chose me to nurture and guide them on their journey here on Mother Earth. 

I am amazed at what awesome young people they are becoming, while at the same time I'm not really sure how much of that I can take credit for. 

I am grateful that they show me respect and love in so many little ways, all year.
I am honoured to be able to call myself Mother.

I think that in this emerging season of mothering - this-growing-up-and-moving-on-of-children season - I'll be taking a whole new approach to Mothers Day. I won't be needing a morning of pampering in bed to make up for sleepless nights and fussy babies but I will be completely engaging in a day of joy - just being in the moment - with which ever of my children are able to spend the day with me.
I also think I'll be having a nicer Mama Day than I have had for a long time!

I was also very happy to celebrate as a new Oma ....... but it sure was strange to wish my dear daughter a Happy Mothers Day!!!