Happy Mother’s Day in Canada tomorrow to all my fav mummies out there!
I have now officially celebrated my first Mother’s Day in Japan. I have reflected a lot today on how grateful I am for the Mothers in my life. Most especially, of course, my own. It was an enormous challenge to come to Japan after my mum suffered a stroke in December. She has worked SO hard to return to her life as it was, after more than 4 months in the hospital. Wherever she ends up next, she ought to know how proud we are all for her incredible strength and determination… love you, mum!
Of course there are others… my awesome mother-in-law. You don’t always hear awesome and mother-in-law in the same breath but in my case - she is very awesome! I have been blessed to have her in my life all these years… so many good times and great memories.
Then there are the “band mummies” that I have met over the past 30 plus years. You know who you are! Before I even had children of my own, I was learning from amazing women who chaperoned the many band trips we did together. I have learned so much from so many.
And of course there are my “mummy friends” who I have shared mummy moments with as our children grew up.
In Japan, I had the pleasure of making a Mother’s Day flower arrangement with many of the Kamikawa mums and babies! It was fascinating to learn the Japanese art of flower arranging. I bought my own Mothers Day flowers as well. Carnations are the flowers in Japan that represent Mothers Day. Is it the same in Canada?
And I have reconnected with SO many Student Exchange "host mummies" since arriving in Kamikawa. The program is truly amazing, having connect so many Canadian kiddos to their new Japanese mummies and families over the years.
I also was graced with the presence of the other half of the Koshino family today, Michiko and Nina - who came bearing early birthday presents and of course the Happy Birthday song…
I celebrate Mothers Day knowing I have raised to fabulous young men. So blessed indeed.
Happy Mothers Day, everyone.
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