What Do You Want for Mother's Day?

And have you been brave enough to ask for it?

TGIF, everyone, and it’s not just any Friday, but the Friday before Mother’s Day — a day that may bring up mixed feelings and feel rather fraught. Especially this year, when it feels like the government is doing everything it can to strip us of our rights, freedoms and humanity. If you’re a mother who feels any sort of resentment toward others — your partner, your community, your government — for not providing the support you need, then Mother’s Day can just feel … gross. Hypocritical, paternalizing, obnoxious. Thank you for everything we force you do to do! We are so, so grateful! Here, have some flowers and a nice brunch and then get back to work!

This year, Mother’s Day will be a different experience for me — it’s my first Mother’s Day since separating from my partner. I have solo custody of my kids until about 6pm, when my ex will take them. My son has a soccer game in the morning, and I have a choir concert in the afternoon — and I’ll admit, I have struggled with a bit of guilt over that. Yes, Mother’s Day should be my day, and I love singing, so this is great! But I also know that my kids have Mother’s Day expectations that won’t be met because I’ll be unavailable for part of the afternoon. I think it’ll be fine, and I know it’s good for my kids to see me prioritizing myself. And I am looking forward to breakfast with my kids, which they have informed me they will be making without my help — wish us all luck.

What do you want for Mother’s Day? Maybe your answer is big and political, or maybe it’s small, like a morning to yourself. If it’s something your family can give you, have you asked for it, and how did that go? Or do you feel you can’t, and if not, why? Please share your thoughts, feelings and experiences in the comments. Mother’s Day is not always easy, and neither are the days leading up to it, when feelings of frustration and resentment can sometimes build. This community is here for whatever you need to share.

Also, don’t forget that my Mother’s Day sale ends on Sunday!!! This newsletter would make a great gift for yourself or others — yes, you can use the discount on gift subscriptions!