“…You are born to one mother, but if you are lucky, you will have more than one. And among them all you will find most of what you need.”
(Clarissa Pinkola Estés, author of Women Who Run with the Wolves)
So many of our children are blessed to have several other mothers in their lives. Sometimes it’s a close family friend, sometimes it’s an auntie or a teacher. They come in many forms, providing another source of adult comfort and acceptance, of love without judgment, that helps anchor our children and give them a solid sense of values.
As Mothers’ Day approaches, we’d like to honor all those women who are there for our children unconditionally, who go to bat for them just as they would for their own children, who hurt for them when they hurt and celebrate with them when they soar, who see a unique talent and nurture it… these are women we consider family, and whom we love and cherish.
You know who you are.
A very special Happy Mothers’ Day to you!
(No recipe today! It’s our day off!)
Violet says
Thank you so much for honoring “other mothers” who have provided such nurturing, guidance and love to us and to our children. I lost both parents by the time I was nineteen, so my dear friend, Bonny, whom I met shortly thereafter, became a special mother. Bonny’s enduring support and friendship provided me with comfort and the strength for me to move on with my life. She was and is a wonderful role model. Every day, I’m thankful for having her in my life. “Aunt Bonny” also assumed the role of honorary grandmother to my son and daughter. Happy Mother’s Day, Bonny!
Rhona & Joan says
Violet, what a lovely tribute to Bonny. This really touched a chord with us.
Nancy C says
What an awesome post!
Rhona & Joan says
Thanks Nancy. The unsung heroines we wanted to celebrate on Mother’s Day.
Lisa says
As an “other daughter”, I can personally vouch for the importance and amazingness of “other mothers”! Happy Mother’s Day, Ronnie! xoxo
Ronnie says
Lisa, thank you, sweetie. You are your mom’s but you are also mine!
Joy B says
Beautifully written!!! Thank you for this lovely post!! This definitely touched a chord with me as well! Wishing you both and all the wonderful mothers out there a very Happy Mother’s Day!!
Rhona & Joan says
Thank you, Joy. Have a wonderful day with your family.
Amy says
I love this.
& I love YOU, Auntie Joanie!
Rhona & Joan says
Love you too dear Amy. Have a wonderful Mother’s Day with your two adorable daughters.
Patty says
Joanie, Dear I’m always so thankful for being brought into your family circle to celebrate Jessica’s and Elizabeth’s rites of passage: birthdays, baptisms, graduations, etc. Sweet memories forever!
And thank you Both for all the nurturing maternal energy you put out there for all of us!
Happy Mother’s Day! xoxoxop
Rhona & Joan says
Lovely memories Patty. So many of them included your special touch. You top the list of “other mothers” in our world, enriching not only Jessica and Elizabeth’s lives with your wisdom and unconditional love, but mine as well, carefully mentoring me to give the impression that I knew what I was doing all these years. We celebrate you today!
Patty says
Oh, Joanie – You’re blessing my Other Mother’s heart today.
Jess says
This was a very special post that brought about sweet tears! Your friendship with each other is such a beautiful thing and I’m so blessed to you have you both as moms! Happy Mothers’ Day!!!
Patty says
Thanx, Jess! You were an adorable little girl, and now a woman we all admire and love.
Kisses, Hugs, Pinches on Your Cheeks!
amgo says
This is a beautiful post. Thank you Mom and Other Mom for demonstrating ever broader and deeper examples of love and family. My gratitude to you both is beyond measure. Love you both so much.