Okay - not a business topic. Mother's Day is this Sunday. You might think, that as a mother of two, I'm wondering how my children will celebrate my existence in their lives.

Nope.

Retailers might think that the focus is on the mother. And yet for the mother, the focus is on anyone but her. Just look at the family photos - isn't Mom usually the one behind the camera?

For me, and for most mothers, this is a day of two-fold celebration.

One: It is a day to celebrate our own mothers. Those fantastic women who raised us, cherished us, taught us, were there for us in so many ways. Whether you are blessed, as I am, to still have your mother with you or if she is a blessed angel in your heart - this weekend is a time to reflect on how wonderful our own mothers have been.

And frankly, still are, even more so as adults because they become friends, confidantes, buddies that we share more with than any individual. After all - they knew us "when."

There are also other female influences in our lives that rank right up there with our mothers. I have a friend whose mother was there for me at a time when my mom and I were struggling (yep, the teen years) and still to this day she is an important person in my life. I am blessed many times over.

I remember my Grandmothers and the strong influence they had in our family - ruling the roost from the kitchen.

Two: The second focus of this weekend, for those of us that are mothers, is our children. We look at them and marvel at the incredible human beings they are. Whether they are infants or adult or somewhere in between, we look and think - how did that amazing creature come from me? So smart and loving and caring and talented. Even when they break our hearts, they are the most amazing gifts we have.

So as Mother's Day approaches - I say a prayer of thanksgiving for my mother, Marilyn Irene Chaddock and the other women in my life. And for my children - both blessings beyond belief.

And I say "bravo" to you who are mothers reading this; for the love and caring, juggling and hardship, pride and amazing energy you offer to your children and the others around you - you are a fantastic example and we salute you!

Happy Mother's Day

Deborah Chaddock Brown
Professional Writer, Blessed Woman
AllWrite Ink