As I reminisced about a Mother's Day long ago, I saw myself in the kitchen with my young daughter, watching her delicately drizzle glaze on a fresh batch of Poppy Seed Muffins for our special brunch. It was a moment that filled me with gratitude for the journey we had taken together since that very first Mother's Day we shared. The second Sunday of May in 1984 was not only Mother’s Day, it is particularly memorable, as it marked the day we celebrated her baptism.

The accompanying picture captures my emotions me as I cradled my infant daughter, realizing the significance of being able to perform such a simple yet profound act of love and care. There had been a time when the thought of being called "Mommie" seemed like a distant dream, but five years of uncertainty, medical tests, interviews, and paperwork eventually led us to adoption. Walking into Catholic Charities with my husband on April 10, 1984, we left with our hearts full, carrying a precious baby girl who completed our family and fulfilled my lifelong dream of motherhood.

If this month has passed without the breakfast in bed, treats, or flowers that traditionally accompany Mother's Day, it's not too late to treat yourself with those same gestures of love and appreciation. While it's natural to hope for others to acknowledge and pamper us on this special day, sometimes they simply forget. In those moments, it's important to nurture and care for yourself, even if it feels unfamiliar or challenging.

Taking small steps towards self-care, like basking in the sun for a few minutes, indulging in a movie with a bowl of popcorn, or buying yourself flowers during your grocery run, can have a significant impact on your well-being. Embracing the practice of mothering yourself can lead to remarkable results, fostering a sense of comfort, love, and fulfillment that radiates from within.