It’s Friday, May 6th, the sun is shining and, incredibly, it’s 21°C (almost 70°F).

Oops… The doorbell just rang. Had to leave my desk but I’m back.

Returning to the weather… This is so amazing since spring has been delayed here in Winnipeg and surrounding areas due to an Alberta Clipper, followed by consecutive Colorado Lows, with resulting floodwater in many areas. Thankfully, the recent days of warm, dry weather are reported to be helping the fight against flooding here in Manitoba, which is welcome news for those of you who have been impacted by the rising water.

And now… getting back to the doorbell. Guess what?

I received a surprise delivery—a beautiful bouquet of flowers from my son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons for Mother’s Day! They live in Jasper, Alberta, so Mother’s Day is often bittersweet for me since I don’t get to see them on this special day. I do, however, get to spend time with my 85-year-old mother who is a social butterfly, healthy and active, and keeps me on my toes. I’m so grateful for her presence, her love, and support. We talk on the phone every day at 9 a.m. to check in and say hello. This Sunday, my husband and I will enjoy brunch with her. We’ll do the “cemetery tour” to visit with departed loved ones. Then we’ll spend time with my siblings and their children which will be extra special since we haven’t gotten together for such a long time due to covid. And of course, my mother will be thrilled to see everyone too.

Our relationship with our mother is often a defining aspect of our life, of who we are, of how we see the world. Whether your relationship has been positive or negative, smooth or rocky, close or distant, supportive or lacking, it’s all part of the emotional journey that affects us day-to-day. This Mother’s Day, I invite you to approach your relationship with your mother in a new light, perhaps by creating or leaning into a foundation of self-care.

If you’re a mother yourself, you know all too well that in order to look after others, you need to look after yourself. Once again, lean into that foundation of self-care. The time taken is well worth it.

Best wishes for a lovely Mother’s Day. I’m going outside now to enjoy the beautiful, sunny day.

With deep gratitude,

Jeannine