In the spirit of honesty, I must admit that I’ve entertained some less-than-perfect thoughts surrounding Mother’s Day. First and foremost, I want to express my deep love for my mother; she means the world to me. However, when the day of celebration arrives, it seems to revolve around my mother and my mother-in-law, while my role as the mother of four wonderful children appears to go unnoticed.
Am I alone in feeling this way?
For the past 25 years, I’ve hosted a Mother’s Day brunch, inviting my mother, extended family, and my mother-in-law’s relatives—which usually amounts to 15 to 20 guests. While there have been a few instances of gathering at my sister-in-law’s desert home, and a couple of disastrous outings at various restaurants, the consensus always lands on the idea that hosting at my house is significantly more pleasant and easier.
This realization is both flattering and burdensome.
Once the planning, invitations, house cleaning, decorating, flower arrangements, gift shopping, grocery runs, meal preparation, and drink selections are all finished, my sole focus shifts to surviving the day. It’s undeniably stressful. And let’s not forget, my youngest son’s birthday often coincides with Mother’s Day—just another occasion to juggle.
I truly appreciate my husband and children, who assist with the cleanup. After all the hustle, I finally get to plop down, mimosa in hand, and try not to doze off.
Both my mother and mother-in-law have been monumental influences in my life, deserving of all the appreciation in the world. However, there seems to be an unspoken expectation that I will handle all the arrangements on this special day.
Yet, I find myself conflicted. I am truly thankful for my 85-year-old mother and cherish every moment we share. I understand that when my time as the honored mother arrives, it will be bittersweet.
But not this year! Our youngest son is currently studying abroad in Italy, and my husband and I are planning to travel to meet him. The best part? We won’t be here for Mother’s Day! I can’t express how relieved and content I feel about being freed from my brunch responsibilities.
I’ve cheerfully informed the family that they will need to take charge of picking up the three varieties of quiche (vegetarian, gluten-free, and applewood bacon), the Chinese Chicken Salad—chicken on the side, please—the assorted bagels and lox, fruit bowls, and champagne.
I’ll be raising a glass of cool, crisp Orvieto Classico while enjoying a delightful antipasto spread instead. Ciao!
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In summary, Mother’s Day is a time filled with love and appreciation, but it can also bring unexpected stress for those who shoulder the planning. This year, I look forward to a well-deserved break, celebrating in a beautiful place with my family.