Q&A With MJ: A Celebration of Mother’s Day

1. What one word would you use to describe motherhood?

Love. Motherhood is unconditional love at its best.

2. What surprised you most about yourself as a mom?

It’s incredibly challenging to let go and allow your kids to learn lessons on their own.

3. What’s your funniest memory?

My two daughters are three years apart, and they bickered so much when they were younger that we called them the “Bickersons.” One time, I’d had enough of the arguing and told them to go to their rooms, stuff their clothes with pillows and we’d settle things with a sumo-wrestling match. It was quite a sight, and we laughed the entire time. They actually didn’t argue again for a while after that.

4. What is the greatest lesson you learned as a mom?

Taking care of yourself is one of the best ways you can care for your children. Self-care, as a mom, is sometimes given up quickly when you’re busy taking care of your kids and your family. Finding a balance and making time for yourself – even something as simple as taking a quick walk every day – can help you be a better mom.

5. What is the best compliment you ever received from your kids?

“I’m so grateful for you because I could have never achieved the things I’ve achieved without you.”

6. What is your favorite thing about being a mom?

Watching my children grow and develop into beautiful, loving adults!

7. What is the most rewarding thing about motherhood?

When you watch your children go through struggles and see their character, and how their character develops through those struggles. For me, it’s been very rewarding to know that my kids are strong, and they know what to do in those times. They don’t crumble.

8. What advice would you give to moms who are going through difficult times with their children?

Don’t let the issue mean too much. Don’t make it bigger than it is, and know that it will get better. Draw on your child’s strengths, not their weaknesses. Don’t take their actions personal. Don’t let their actions categorize you as a good or bad mom. Many of us look at our kids as a reflection of our parenting, and that’s not always true.

9. What’s one thing you wish someone had told you (pre-kids) about being a mom?

Relax! Know that every child grows and develops at his or her own pace, and it happens naturally. Don’t worry so much. You can get overwhelmed with so much information about what to do and what not to do that sometimes it causes confusion.

10. What message would you like to pass along to all mothers this Mother’s Day?

Enjoy receiving the love you give everyday. A lot of moms tend to give, give, give, and sometimes we aren’t very good at receiving. When we allow ourselves to receive from others, we give them value.