How it is to be mum

By Sheree Hoddinett 

Being a mum means so much more than just bringing a child into the world—it’s a lifelong journey of love, sacrifice and growth. It’s about being a protector, a teacher, a cheerleader and a source of unconditional love, even if there are times you don’t feel like it, you still make the time and effort to step up. It’s one of the toughest but most rewarding jobs in the world.   

Mother’s Day is important because it’s a dedicated time to honour and appreciate the love, sacrifices and support that mothers (and mother figures) provide throughout our lives. It’s more than just a celebration—it’s a recognition of the emotional and physical effort mothers put into raising their children, managing families and often balancing careers in the mix as well. 

We look up to them and we treasure them dearly, they are the most influential women in our lives – mums. As we head towards another Mother’s Day, a day to celebrate all those who fulfil the mother role in some way, shape or form, I decided to ask some of the amazing women in my life what being a mum/Mother’s Day means to them.  

……. 

Tracey C – Mum of 1 

I always express my appreciation to my mum and the other important women in my life. However, Mother’s Day provides an opportunity for me to genuinely honour these women. As someone who faced challenges in becoming a mother, it also serves as a reminder that being a mum is such a blessing and although we face many ups and downs, it has been the best thing I have ever done.  

…. 

Sarah N – Mum of 2  

What makes Mother’s Day special to me? First and foremost it’s about the relationship I have with my own mother and honouring the special bond we have. Usually we are able to spend some of the day together, just having a cup of tea and a good chat, even if it’s just a video chat because we don’t live very close.  

Secondly is, of course, being with my own children. A fun day out (that I don’t have to plan or prep for!) or playing games at home is how I like to spend the day. Though the concept of ‘give Mumma a break and directing all questions and concerns to Daddy for the day’ could use some improving.  

Which brings me to my third point about Mother’s Day. As a primary school teacher, the preparation for Mother’s Day begins weeks, sometimes months before, as I plan out what cute little crafty project my students will be working on to deliver to their own mothers or caregivers on the special day. And then sending it home on the Friday saying ‘don’t forget to get it out of your bag on Sunday! No, tomorrow is not Sunday!’. 

I think Mother’s Day is a time to make Mums feel special, make her a cup of tea, bring her something you’ve made yourself (grandkids don’t count!) and just spend time with her, without expecting her to cook or clean for a day. I’m sure I can confidently speak for all mums when I say we’re tired and just want the day off! 

….. 

Mandy W – Mum of 3 

Being a mum to me means accepting and loving my children unconditionally. It means making sacrifices, so they can have better things in their lives and have the potential to go on and do better and bigger things in the future. It also means being their safe place when they fall. It’s about helping them navigate life and being their biggest cheerleader. It is the hardest, but the best and most rewarding thing I have ever done. 

….. 

Courtney – Mum of 3 

I have never been more exhausted, frustrated and pushed to my limit in my whole life as I have been as a mum. I would choose to do it all again every time over and over because it is the most blessed job in the world. To have the privilege of witnessing and the immense responsibility of such an integral part of your child’s life, is a blessing I am so thankful for. I have never experienced more love, pure joy and life fulfilment than I have as a mum and when I see the joy and excitement on their faces that I was able to give them, it’s worth more than any gift I could receive. I truly believe one will never experience such a selfless love as you do as a parent and to me it gives me a small glimpse of the love my father in heaven has for me. 

….. 

Karen – Mum of 1 

Being a mum means rediscovering the world through innocent eyes and marvelling at every little moment. It's endless cuddles, giggles and wildly funny conversations. It’s being corrected by a tiny human with unwavering (but often misplaced) confidence. It's feeling pride and awe as they boldly take on the world. Most of all, it’s love in its purest, most chaotic form. 

The team at The Local wish all the mums and those who take on a mum role in whatever shape or form it means to them, a very Happy Mother’s Day!