A COVID-19 Mother’s Day

No crowded brunches.

No out of town company.

No unrealistic expectations that my children miraculously get along.

Maybe no gifts because school was not in session and homemade assignments to showcase motherly love could not be done.

And who cares? There are bigger issues right now.

Therefore, no matter what I vow to enjoy my Mother’s Day in 2020. I probably speak for a lot of moms, when I write that we do not need any hoopla and extravagant gestures. Especially this year.

This Mother’s Day could turn out perfect because I have no expectations. COVID-19 has eliminated a lot of pre-existing notions when it comes to holidays, and Mother’s Day is not immune. But that is okay. Getting back to basics and living in the “right now” versus my family’s overly scheduled life of youth sports, school activities, and work deadlines has some positives.

And a COVID-19 Mother’s Day has its positives too.

There will be no online learning expectations for the day and there will also be no seated restaurant reservations. There could be hikes, and there most definitely will be a late, lazy breakfast that includes coffee with good creamer. Maybe take-out for lunch and dinner. Or maybe just raiding the refrigerator at our leisure.

The kids might help more with loading and unloading the dishwasher. My husband might put away his discarded socks that land all over our garage and household. Our dog might not start whining for food two hours before it is time for her to eat. No matter what, it will all be okay.

My biggest wish for Mother’s Day is that social media gets flooded by cute photographs. I want to view fun family pictures and not glimpse a single post of political nonsense. All of the cruel and mean comments should take a permanent break. Seriously, stop all together. It is like I tell my six-year-old “Just be nice”.

I probably won’t get to see my mom or mother-in-law on Mother’s Day. But that is alright too. They know we all love them. We text and talk regularly and haven’t let the restrictions of social distancing limit our communication. Funny memes and sarcastic comments still get shared among our family group messages and “Words with Friends” gets played. 

My friends will surely reach out on Mother’s Day and that will be another great reminder of how special the day is for so many. Hearing from college pals, neighbors, extended family, and good friends keeps us connected.

My wish for this Mother’s Day and all of my future Mother’s Days is to value the time I have with my kids. Even when they drive me crazy, I am thankful for my moments with them. COVID-19 has emphasized this more for me and I plan to relish it. Especially on Mother’s Day.

Happy Mother's Day to all from Family Footnote!