Mother’s Day and Father’s Day have always been special occasions in my family. When we were little, it meant a time of rest and relaxation for Mama and Dad. It meant bringing them little handmade cards and gifts that they would happily display on the refrigerator or on the table. When I got married, I was blessed to have a mother-in-law whom I love, and thankfully, she loves me, too. Now, we celebrate with dinners, flowers, cards, and edible arrangements for parents and grandparents while enjoying each moment together.
Next came the birth of my children. My daughter and son are grown now, but I, too, still have those sweet little handmade cards and gifts that they created with all the innocence and love children have for their parents. I am so proud of the adults they have become, and this new milestone ushered me into another phase of parenthood. This is not necessarily a bad thing; it is simply different. Instead of sharing about their playground adventures, they tell me about their days at work. And I listen to them tease each other as only siblings can, and I think: FINALLY THEY ARE FRIENDS! It makes me so happy to know that this time has arrived. Do not get me wrong, they have always loved each other, but the teasing would often turn into fussing like it does with most siblings. This new part is refreshing to say the least, and I am thankful to be around them to see it firsthand.
Not to rush things, but I am truly looking forward to the time when they have their own children and become parents themselves. I tell my husband, Brian, all the time that when I do have a grandbaby, the world needs to look out because he or she is going to be so spoiled. He laughs and says that, after a day spent with us—loading them up on sugar and caffeine—we can always send them home!
What are some of those special mementoes you have stockpiled around your home? What are some of the memories you and your family are currently making and hope to make in the future? Whatever they may be, I hope that all your future Mother’s and Father’s Days are full of love, hugs, and blessings.
