Another Mother's Day is upon us. A day in which our loved ones bestow us with handmade gifts, breakfast in bed, supper out and sometimes even jewelry!!! It is a day for our family to show how much they appreciate the job we do.

I remember after my first child was born, I developed this deep respect for other mothers and immediately felt connected to all of them. I felt a bond that only strengthened the further into motherhood I went.

So on this very special weekend, I want to honor, not only my own mother, but all mothers. You hold a very special place in my heart and I know first hand the challenges and rewards that we experience on a daily basis. Motherhood is several professions rolled up in to one; nurse, teacher, housekeeper, referee, cook, manager and many more. The pay is poor but the benefits are the best.

My wish for all mothers is that you don't wait for the one day of the year before YOU recognize the contribution you make in the lives of others. It is so important to appreciate, on a daily basis, the job you do. We often second guess our mothering ability. We focus on the times we lost patience instead of the times we didn't. We count the times we yelled instead of the times we said I love you. We fixate on the mess of the house instead of recognizing that the time spent reading with the kids was a better decision.

As this Mother's day rolls around, sit back and enjoy every second of the love and appreciation bestowed on you. It is a day to relax and reap all the rewards of motherhood. When this occasion passes however, make a point to keep that appreciation and love flowing from within you. At the end of your day, recognize the contribution you have made. Focus on what you gave to your family, not what you didn't. Value your own self worth as a person and a mother. Honor yourself daily with a few words of encouragement or another act of self-care. Take time for you. Celebrate the ME in MumME because she certainly is someone to celebrate. Cheers!!!

Copyright 2005 Peggy Porter

Peggy Porter is a nurse, Wellness Coach, and author of YumME MumME Makeover-How to Balance Womanhood and Motherhood by Nurturing the Me in MumMe. If you are a Mom and want to start creating a healthier balance in your life, go to http://www.seekingbalance.ca and register for Peggy's free monthly teleclass and Ecourse! For more info you can also email peggy@seekingbalance.ca or call 506-832-0117.