Let’s face it, things are going to look different this Mother’s Day. And while many businesses, schools and public spaces remain shuttered, many of us are ready to get back to the parts of daily life that make us feel connected to each other. So whether you are sheltering in place, under a stay at home order or tip-toeing your way out of quarantine, we have several ideas on how you can initiate meaningful connections in a safe way with the women in your life this Mother’s Day.
Donate - Maybe she’s a retired nurse, schoolteacher or administrative assistant. Maybe she’s still working or maybe she’s a full time mom. Whatever the case may be, one in three jobs held by women have been designated “essential” (and thats not including the job of mothering). She’s a superhero, all she does is give, give, give. So if you’re able, do it on her behalf and donate to a cause she loves. We’re partial to organizations like Black Mamas Matter, Trevor Project, Environmental Defense Fund, and Olympic Angels but make an intentional choice based on whatever your mom is interested in and passionate about.
Plan a Future Trip - Don’t underestimate the value of having something to look forward to, even if you are unsure when it will happen. So pick a place and a plan a getaway! It can be a simple day trip or a long weekend somewhere you’ve always wanted to explore together. Eventually, things will open back up and when that happens, you’ll be ready. Currently, we’re dreaming of crystals, cactus and red rocks as we plan a future trip to Sedona, Arizona.
Start a Book Club - A little distraction isn’t such a bad thing right now - so get lost in a good book! Send mom a book (or audiobook), set a deadline and discuss. It will serve as a new lens to view each other through and will surely trigger some compelling conversations. PS - If you’re into history, jewelry and science, we highly recommend New York Times Best Seller Stoned by Aja Raden. So. Good.
Host a Baking or Cooking Party - Is there a family recipe you have always wanted mom to teach you? Something her mother passed down to her? Now is the time to round up the cookware you never use, roll up those sleeves and get cookin’. FaceTime mom, prop her up against your half full bottle of wine and enjoy an evening of virtual cooking lessons.
Coordinate a CSA or Grocery Delivery - Have you heard? Veggies are the new flowers, especially if mom is stuck in quarantine. Most communities have access to some kind of grocery delivery service, so instead of a bouquet, send groceries. No Instacart? No problem. Look into coordinating a local farmer’s CSA for a super healthy delivery instead - find one near mom here.
Although school, work and gatherings have been temporarily put on hold, and hugs and handshakes are no longer a welcome exchange, there are glimmers of silver linings everywhere. The environment is experiencing a sorely needed break and many of us have an abundance of time on our hands. Use that time wisely and honor mom this coming weekend from home in whatever way feels right for you. Baking, books and supporting local shops are just a few of the ways we’ll be connecting with loved ones in the weeks and months to come.
