Mother’s Day always brings a mixture of emotions for me. It makes me think of my own mother, an artist, creative, strong-willed, funny, and endlessly resourceful. She could stretch a pound further than anyone I have ever known. She also struggled with her mental health, and I remember the quiet battles she faced, the moments of tension, and the love that was sometimes complicated, but always real. Her strength, humour, and creativity shaped me in ways I am still discovering, even now, years after she is no longer here.

I find myself thinking about her more deeply now that my own child is grown. Motherhood changes everything. I remember the early days, the sleepless nights, the endless worry, the joy in the smallest moments, and the fear that I might not be enough. Watching my child grow into an adult has been one of the greatest privileges and lessons of my life. It reminds me of the lessons my mother gave me, often without words, resilience, creativity, humour, and the importance of nurturing both yourself and others.

Looking back, I see the threads connecting three generations. The creativity and humour my mother carried, the love and patience I tried to give as a parent, and now my daughter, who carries those lessons forward in her own way. Seeing her become the person she has always wanted to be fills me with indescribable pride. From the age of ten, she knew the career she wanted, and she has pursued it with determination, passion, and grace. Watching her achieve her dreams, stay true to herself, and navigate the world with integrity reminds me of everything I hoped to teach her, and everything my mother taught me before her.

There is a bittersweetness in it all. A recognition of what has been lost, of what has been gained, and of the invisible ways love continues to travel through time. It is a reminder that motherhood is never just about raising a child; it is about shaping a life, passing on lessons, nurturing curiosity, resilience, and joy, and learning as much from them as they learn from us.

This Mother’s Day, I honour my mother, I reflect on my own journey as a mother, and I celebrate my daughter. I celebrate the quiet, enduring ways love, guidance, and creativity are passed down. Being a mother is not about perfection; it is about presence, care, and sharing the light we carry with the next generation. It is about showing up, even when life is messy, and holding space for growth, joy, and individuality.

To my mother, to all mothers, and to the daughters who continue to carry their mothers’ lessons, your love, strength, and guidance shape the world in ways both seen and unseen. To my daughter, I am endlessly proud of the woman you have become and the dreams you have followed since you were ten. Thank you for teaching me, inspiring me, and continuing the legacy of love, creativity, and resilience that began long before us.