Some of you know I am heading out tomorrow … off to spend a week with Mom, and our first Mother’s Day together in 29 years. The numbers astound even me. Of course I’ve visited many times since I left Canada at age 22 but I’ve never been there on Mother’s Day. This is just as much for me as it is for her, I can admit that.
Stepping out of one world and through the doors to another. Away from smart phones and conference calls, instant messaging and project meetings. Away from traffic and busyness and into the arms of a tiny-faced lady who will hug me with everything she’s got.
I’ll step away from stewarding my team, being a wife, Mom and Nana and back to the roles of daughter, (little) sister and “that girl who used to sing and play guitar.”
I’ve got a few things ready – including a funeral outfit – because, as Sissy pointed out, “I thought you’d want to attend and you’ll surely see lots of people you know.” And she’s right. That’s how small towns are. Funerals, weddings, gatherings; regardless the circumstance, the timing is such that I can take Mom, pay my respects and have a visit. And some pie.
My carry-on bag is already heavy and full – full of books for Mom. A friend pointed out airline weight limits; I just smiled and said, “Yeah, I know.” Oh there’s a fee? Whatever, I’ll pay it. She didn’t get it and I didn’t expect that she would.
You see, when you only see your Mother once a year, you can get defensive with anyone who tells you how to do it.
Sissy will meet me at the airport and we’ll cry. Then we’ll laugh at our sappiness and enjoy the country drive together. We’ll stop in town to pick up a few things and it’ll take longer to check out because I’ll end up chatting with a neighbor at the till. Yep, when you see your sister only once a year, you tend to savor little moments like those.
So after I land at the farm and the hugs are exchanged, the chats and laughs will begin. I’ll get up early and go for walks down our country road with my sister-in-law and her farm dog, Stevie. On the way back I’ll stop by Dad’s shop where I’ll find a brother or two and chat about whatever topic we fancy. When I get back Mom will be at the table and there we’ll linger in that morning sunshine, sipping coffee and ignoring the ticking of the clock and the knowledge that I have to board again soon.
We’ll stay up late peppering the air with our opinions on world events and family nuances. I’ll stand at her stove and cook for her and sing along to Willie, Elvis and Roy, just like we did when I was a girl. We’ll sip tea and nibble the lemon loaf she’s baked for me; she’ll fuss and I’ll let her.
We’ll gather at her house for a Mother’s Day brunch – about twenty of us – and she’ll beam at the noise and commotion that all of being together brings. We’ll miss those who can’t be there and every single one of us will feel Dad in the room.
And for seven days, I will ask those clocks to slow, just a little.
Me & Mom rocking the Casino last summer!
The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you. ~Anonymous
Related:
I think I know someone else who will revel in ” the noise and commotion that all of being together brings.” Love the tone of excitement and the visions of anticipation your words bring.
Have a wonderful time! You’re a feisty gal when it comes to family…I know you will.
You know I will, GS! I didn’t sleep well last night, due to all the excitement (and trying to remember if I’d packed this or that). Off we go to the airport — Happy Mother’s day to you!
MJ
Have a FANTASTIC trip, MJ!!! I love the precious time I get to spend with my mom. Looking forward to a cup of coffee and a good read when you get back ❤
thank you Sandi and a very happy Mother’s day to you & Yours!!
MJ
Precious Memories…how they linger. Have a wonderful visit.
Indeed they do – thank you Butch!
MJ
Just wonderful
thank you
MJ
Teary-eyed by the time I got to the end of this post. I will smile, though, in the coming days, as I think of you spending sweet moments with your Mom. (And giving her that hug for me.)
And I’ll give her a big one just from you 🙂 She’ll giggle when I explain who it’s from and how we “met”! Happy Mom’s Day, Dianna!
MJ
Have a wonderful trip! I know you’ll soak up every moment with your mom and siblings. There’s something very grounding about going “home.” Not that I think you need that…you seem pretty grounded to me! Be safe, and come back and tell us wonderful stories of your Canadian prairie! ~ Sheila
Thank you Sheila; I am ready … off to the airport we go!
Cheers and have a wonderful Mother’s day!
MJ
I would give anything to spend an afternoon with my mom! She’s been gone for 28 years but you never lose that longing. Have a great time and give her a hug for me!
I can only imagine, Kate. I’m savoring every moment for that very reason — I know this is not something I will be able to do always.
Cheers and Happy Mother’s Day to you!
*PS loved the post about the carpets – nothing like it LOL 🙂
MJ
One word. Enjoy. 🙂
thank you much; please share your donuts with Connie this Mother’s day 🙂
MJ
Wonderful.
Thank you, David.
MJ
Enjoy every minute! <3!
Thank you, I did! 🙂
MJ
Enjoy your trip MJ. It’s a little sad this year for me, so get plenty of hugs.
Thank you, Renee. I know this is the first one without your Mom, and my thoughts are with you, MJ
Happy Mothers Day, MJ! I hope every moment with your mom and family is pure joy.
Thank you, Terri. It was good, all good!
MJ
Sorry to be so late getting here, MJ, but I’m sending you and your mom wishes for a belated but happy Mother’s Day!
Hugs from Ecuador,
Kathy
Thank you, Kathy. we had many good chats and nameless moments together 🙂
MJ
omg – look at all those pies!!!! (in the header foto) – that’s my idea of heaven. Hope ur time with ur Mom was good.
Thanks Coop, it was. And there was pie! 🙂
MJ
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