Long ago the holiday of Mother’s Day was thought to be confined to all those who were birth mothers to children. Cast in a traditional role, one saw pictures of children drawing happy scenes on construction paper with crayons to express their sentiments for the occasion. Fortunately, today, we realize that the title of Mother is one that can be bestowed on anyone who takes a vested interest in loving, caring about or for a child, providing safety, comfort, lodging, and food for a child, or supporting a group of children who otherwise would have no one to call by that name.

Mothers are our very first friends in life, most of the time. They spend the most amount of time with us until we can walk, talk, and participate in activities with others. They teach us rules of behavior, share their faith with us or show us by example how to have faith, and most of all, they teach us kindness and compassion, which begins in their hearts. Our ability to give and receive love is often a function of how that was shown to us when we were young. Others come by it naturally.

What’s the best gift to offer your mom or other special lady who filled the role of providing a mother’s love? It’s only one day a year, which can often seem unfair to just have one day to celebrate them. And yet, here it is, so what do you give to show your appreciation?

The first favorite gift is unquestionably the gift of time. Taking time well in advance of the holiday to plan something special to honor your mother and the mother of your children is important. You know this day is coming so it should never look as though you waited until the last minute.

Phone calls are a must, especially if distance separates you and you can’t be there in person. Cards in the mail will take extra time, so plan on priority mail or overnight delivery if you’re cutting it close. So, time and thoughtfulness are two special ways you say “I love you” to your mom. What else?

The gift of memories, especially to an older mom, is always appreciated. Photographs that you’ve had enlarged, showing a beloved family reunion, or the two of you at a special day and time in your lives, at an event that brought you both pride and joy, those are the kinds of pictures that it’s a joy to see every day of a mother’s life.

The timeless gift of your voice—you can record a personalized greeting on your phone and send it to her via text message or e-mail, and she can play it over and over again. Telling her that you love and appreciate her is something she can see every day when she wakes up or before she goes to sleep at night. While it seems like nothing special, you’d be surprised how much it means to her. And, when you rediscover it among her things in the days where she has passed away, you might realize how much your kindness and thoughtful gift meant.

There’s no time like today to tell someone you love how much they mean to you, regardless of any national occasion. People cannot hear enough how their presence in our lives makes a difference. Taking others for granted is so easy to do, especially with our parents. We assume they will live forever, be able to join us in all our activities forever.

Because they were our very first friends, mothers are the ones that it is possible to just think that it’s just one more holiday for them. Perhaps it is. But on the vague possibility it is not, be sure and work your schedule around to include them in whatever you do. For those whose biological parents were not the ones who represent “mother” to them, just share our love with those who are.

People come into our lives and fill roles “just like” the ones we need when we need them. Life has a way of working out. Perhaps your grandmother is the one who raised you, or an aunt, or a beloved next-door neighbor was your advocate throughout your transition to adulthood. Titles are not as important as those who can express and share their love with you, especially when it is so greatly needed.

Many years go by and some of us who’ve lost their mothers early are forced to remember the loss, rather than celebrate the presence. And, on Mother’s Day it can hurt, there’s no denying. But every moment we had with our mothers becomes even more precious in our memories. As we go through life, and as women may become mothers themselves, it is a chance to put into action all the things about their dear moms that they remember best and loved the most.

This year I’m fortunate to celebrate my own wonderful mother, Lorene, and my beautiful wife, Chelsea, who is an amazing and gifted mother to our son, Rowen, who simply adores her. It is with love and thanks that I wish them, and all of you, a very special and happy Mother’s Day this year!

Are you looking for something special to do on Sunday afternoon? Here’s one idea:

The series was designed to bring the greatest music to the area in a setting where the music could be appreciated at no cost to the patron. From its beginning, the concert series operated on donations from an offering plate passed around the audience at the conclusion of the program. We are most grateful for the foresight and generosity of the community members who came before us to provide for our future enjoyment in the arts here in the Brazos Valley.

Of all the women in our lives, mothers certainly hold a position of supreme love and regard that often are set far above others we hold dear in life. Mothers are, frankly, our first very best friends and throughout life, others may come close but there’s a place that only they can hold dear in our hearts.

This Mother’s Day is special for Chelsea and I, naturally because we celebrate and honor the mother she is to our son Rowen. She is a superb mother, and it is a joy to watch the bond the two of them share every day when he is growing, learning, and flourishing. She creates a special world for all of us—she defines “family” to us. That’s just some of what moms do for us.

But this year, as we naturally think of our own mothers, we remember those who are not here, for the first time in fact. My mother, Lorene, lost her mother, Dolores, in November 2023 and so this is her first Mother’s Day without her, as it is for my uncles and their wives, all of whom adored her and shared in the caregiving of this special lady in the final years of her life.

Of course, Mom being the only daughter, they shared a special bond between them, and it made me so happy and proud to see that Rowen could be born into this world, knowing a second-generation family member and for her being able to hold him when he was born. I prize those multiple generation photos we take at different times in our lives, too. They last far beyond the years they were taken.

The more mature we become, the more occasions and gatherings and dates on the calendar mean to us. I remember the occasion of Rowen’s birth in one additional poignant way. That morning, we held the graveside service for my father’s mother, my grandmother Dian Jones, before we went to the hospital that afternoon so Rowen could be delivered that day. I like to think that Dian held him first.

We lost my mother’s mother, Dolores Bertrand, just last November and so this Mother’s Day is her first one without her mom. Chelsea and I are so grateful that we had as many years with Rowen’s great-grandmothers here as we had. Yes, we have many multigenerational photos for the scrapbooks but more importantly, Rowen knew there are many generations or “layers of love” that are all his to have, hold, and hug.

For many among us who have lost a parent, particularly a mother, whether recently or just last year, we recognize that there is a hole in our hearts that no one else can fill. We have room in our hearts to add many people there—one person is not needed to “replace” the loss of another. Rather, no one can take that certain loved one’s place. We just expand our circle of love to include everyone we can bring into our world who are there for us.

Our first love as children will always likely be a mother, but that woman may or may not have given birth to us. We can be so grateful for those who adopt children, for grandparents who step in to raise children when a parent falls ill or when their work responsibilities prevent them from being present at home all the time. We have aunts, great-aunts, and even dear neighbors who choose to be part of our worlds as we grow up, and we are all the richer for that.

As you reflect on the women in your life today, I join you in saluting the contributions of time, love, and care that they devoted to you and others you love. We are fortunate to have their love, for all our sakes. In these years long past childhood, I’m even more delighted that Rowen had even a small bit of precious time with his great-grandmothers and that his grandmother, my mom, Lorene, can be here with him as often as she is. After all the gifts that our mothers give us, besides the gift of life and love, is their time.

Hoping you enjoy time with your dear Mom or “just like a loving Mother” in your life.

Cody D. Jones ‘02

Owner & Community Member

Of all the women in our lives, mothers certainly hold a position of supreme love and regard that often are set far above others we hold dear in life. Mothers are, frankly, our first very best friends and throughout life, others may come close but there’s a place that only they can hold dear in our hearts.

This Mother’s Day is special for Chelsea and I, naturally because we celebrate and honor the mother she is to our son Rowen. She is a superb mother, and it is a joy to watch the bond the two of them share every day when he is growing, learning, and flourishing. She creates a special world for all of us—she defines “family” to us. That’s just some of what moms do for us.

But this year, as we naturally think of our own mothers, we remember those who are not here, for the first time in fact. My mother, Lorene, lost her mother, Dolores, in November 2023 and so this is her first Mother’s Day without her, as it is for my uncles and their wives, all of whom adored her and shared in the caregiving of this special lady in the final years of her life.

Of course, Mom being the only daughter, they shared a special bond between them, and it made me so happy and proud to see that Rowen could be born into this world, knowing a second-generation family member and for her being able to hold him when he was born. I prize those multiple generation photos we take at different times in our lives, too. They last far beyond the years they were taken.

The more mature we become, the more occasions and gatherings and dates on the calendar mean to us. I remember the occasion of Rowen’s birth in one additional poignant way. That morning, we held the graveside service for my father’s mother, my grandmother Dian Jones, before we went to the hospital that afternoon so Rowen could be delivered that day. I like to think that Dian held him first.

We lost my mother’s mother, Dolores Bertrand, just last November and so this Mother’s Day is her first one without her mom. Chelsea and I are so grateful that we had as many years with Rowen’s great-grandmothers here as we had. Yes, we have many multigenerational photos for the scrapbooks but more importantly, Rowen knew there are many generations or “layers of love” that are all his to have, hold, and hug.

For many among us who have lost a parent, particularly a mother, whether recently or just last year, we recognize that there is a hole in our hearts that no one else can fill. We have room in our hearts to add many people there—one person is not needed to “replace” the loss of another. Rather, no one can take that certain loved one’s place. We just expand our circle of love to include everyone we can bring into our world who are there for us.

Our first love as children will always likely be a mother, but that woman may or may not have given birth to us. We can be so grateful for those who adopt children, for grandparents who step in to raise children when a parent falls ill or when their work responsibilities prevent them from being present at home all the time. We have aunts, great-aunts, and even dear neighbors who choose to be part of our worlds as we grow up, and we are all the richer for that.

As you reflect on the women in your life today, I join you in saluting the contributions of time, love, and care that they devoted to you and others you love. We are fortunate to have their love, for all our sakes. In these years long past childhood, I’m even more delighted that Rowen had even a small bit of precious time with his great-grandmothers and that his grandmother, my mom, Lorene, can be here with him as often as she is. After all the gifts that our mothers give us, besides the gift of life and love, is their time.

Hoping you enjoy time with your dear Mom or “just like a loving Mother” in your life.

Cody D. Jones ‘02

Owner & Community Member

For many people, Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and show appreciation for all our mothers do for us. And heaven knows, all those mothers out there deserve to be celebrated. For others, however, Mother’s Day can be a painful reminder of a mother no longer with them. If you’re struggling to cope with grief on Mother’s Day, here are some tips to help you move through the grief and onto a path to healthy healing.

Tips for Coping with Mother’s Day Grief

1. Acknowledge your feelings.
   Your feelings about the loss of your mother are very real. It’s important to acknowledge them and allow yourself to grieve. Don’t try to suppress your emotions or put on a brave face. Feeling sad, angry, or overwhelmed on Mother’s Day is okay. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and process them in a healthy way.
2. Connect with your loved ones.
   Surround yourself with others who understand your loss and can offer support. Reach out to family members, friends, or a support group. Sometimes talking to someone who has experienced a similar loss can be helpful. Sharing stories with others who knew her can bring back wonderful memories of her and why she was so special.
3. Create new traditions.
   If Mother’s Day has been difficult for you since your mother’s passing, consider creating new traditions to honor her memory. Light a candle in her honor, make her favorite meal, or visit a place that was special to her. Doing something that reminds you of your mother can help you feel closer to her on this day.
4. Put your feelings into words.
   Write a letter to your mother or grandmother expressing how much you miss them. If you keep a journal, writing about this special person may bring you comfort.
5. Practice self-care.
   Taking care of yourself is essential during times of grief. Make time for self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally can help you cope with the emotions on Mother’s Day. Be sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and drink enough water. Not only can this make you feel physically better, but you know your mother would want you to stay healthy.

Remember, you shouldn’t feel pressured to do anything you don’t want to do. Spend the day doing things you enjoy. This could mean going for a long walk, spending the day watching your favorite films, or taking yourself on a day trip. Above all, If you’re struggling to cope with grief on Mother’s Day, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help you work through your emotions and develop coping strategies. These professionals can also provide a safe and supportive space to express your feelings without judgment.

Contact your family, friends, and medical professionals if you need help but don’t know where to start. Your doctor, for example, may be able to recommend a grief support group or other resources to help you cope. Above all, remember that you are not alone.

Acknowledge your feelings, connect with loved ones, create new traditions, practice self-care, and seek professional help. It’s okay to feel sad. Healing takes time. Everyone’s timetable is different, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. With time and support, you can learn to cope with your grief and find ways to honor your mother’s memory on Mother’s Day and every day.

>>Learn More About Coping With Grief

For many people, Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and show appreciation for all our mothers do for us. And heaven knows, all those mothers out there deserve to be celebrated. For others, however, Mother’s Day can be a painful reminder of a mother no longer with them. If you’re struggling to cope with grief on Mother’s Day, here are some tips to help you move through the grief and onto a path to healthy healing.

Tips for Coping with Mother’s Day Grief

1. Acknowledge your feelings.
   Your feelings about the loss of your mother are very real. It’s important to acknowledge them and allow yourself to grieve. Don’t try to suppress your emotions or put on a brave face. Feeling sad, angry, or overwhelmed on Mother’s Day is okay. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and process them in a healthy way.
2. Connect with your loved ones.
   Surround yourself with others who understand your loss and can offer support. Reach out to family members, friends, or a support group. Sometimes talking to someone who has experienced a similar loss can be helpful. Sharing stories with others who knew her can bring back wonderful memories of her and why she was so special.
3. Create new traditions.
   If Mother’s Day has been difficult for you since your mother’s passing, consider creating new traditions to honor her memory. Light a candle in her honor, make her favorite meal, or visit a place that was special to her. Doing something that reminds you of your mother can help you feel closer to her on this day.
4. Put your feelings into words.
   Write a letter to your mother or grandmother expressing how much you miss them. If you keep a journal, writing about this special person may bring you comfort.
5. Practice self-care.
   Taking care of yourself is essential during times of grief. Make time for self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally can help you cope with the emotions on Mother’s Day. Be sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and drink enough water. Not only can this make you feel physically better, but you know your mother would want you to stay healthy.

Remember, you shouldn’t feel pressured to do anything you don’t want to do. Spend the day doing things you enjoy. This could mean going for a long walk, spending the day watching your favorite films, or taking yourself on a day trip. Above all, If you’re struggling to cope with grief on Mother’s Day, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help you work through your emotions and develop coping strategies. These professionals can also provide a safe and supportive space to express your feelings without judgment.

Contact your family, friends, and medical professionals if you need help but don’t know where to start. Your doctor, for example, may be able to recommend a grief support group or other resources to help you cope. Above all, remember that you are not alone.

Acknowledge your feelings, connect with loved ones, create new traditions, practice self-care, and seek professional help. It’s okay to feel sad. Healing takes time. Everyone’s timetable is different, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. With time and support, you can learn to cope with your grief and find ways to honor your mother’s memory on Mother’s Day and every day.

>>Learn More About Coping With Grief