Don’t Feel Left Out on Mother’s Day: A Tribute to Departed Moms

I have not "celebrated" Mother's Day since 1981. That was the year my Mom passed.

What I have done is celebrated my Mom. Many of us haven't had the privilege of having our Mom's around for a while, but you don't have to feel sad or left out on the much publicized and "big" holiday. Make it a time to honor all your Mom did for you.

Our Moms had so much to teach us, didn't they? And what about those moments that only you and your Mom shared? Don't be afraid to relive that.

One of the rituals we had was watching the "Today Show", with Tom Brokaw and Jane Pauley, together in the kitchen in winter as Mom made Cream of Wheat. We talked about all kinds of things. I went on to work for Jane Pauley. That was a proud moment for me! I still love Cream of Wheat and must cook it with a wooden spoon.

I will never forget some of the most important lessons Mom taught me . Now remember, I was 14 when she died.

1. If you are going to be different be prepared for the consequences, but don't change for anyone.  (And I didn't!)

2. Actions speak louder than words. She and my Dad lived by this.

3. Patience is definitely a virtue when you're a Mom. Which goes along with this quote "don't hang on me!". Oh, I was stuck to Mom like glue, but she sure was patient about it.

4. If you have a talent, use it. She was an amazing singer and seamstress.

5. Compromise makes a happy marriage, plus hiding little things from Dad doesn't hurt either. When one of we kids did something bad, she generally discussed punishment with my Dad, but a few times, she kept him in the dark and dealt with it herself. Yep, those were the times we wished Dad had known!  She was so good at guilting us!

6. Never leave anything unsaid. We didn't.

Some activities to help honor Mom could include these: Plant flowers in Mom's memory, tell the kids and grand kids stories about her or even make a collage of pictures. My friend planted a Dogwood tree one year and every Mother's Day they picnic near it and use her recipes.

Happy Mother's Day to our dear departed Moms.