With spring now in full bloom in my hometown, I thought to myself the other day, “This is definitely lemonade stand weather!” Then I realized my daughter, who is almost 16, has interests beyond setting up her lemonade stand, which used to be a favorite activity of hers. My two sons, now 13 and 9, are more interested… in frequenting lemonade stands instead of creating them. How did my children grow up so quickly? The time we have to play such a major role in their daily lives is relatively short.

With the big event just around the corner, I wish you a very happy Mother’s Day! Whether you are a mother or not, take a moment and reflect on the support and connection your mother gave you. In what ways did your mother make a difference in your life? If you are a mother yourself, find something wonderful you can do on your own or with your loved ones to celebrate your role as mom. Can you see the differences you make in the lives of others?

Flowers and chocolates are fine, but they are not nearly as sweet or as satisfying as heartfelt acknowledgement and gratitude. My Mother’s Day wish for you is a heart full of happiness, connected to the ones most dear to you.