Why Mothers Should Embrace Grandparents Day

My Mother’s Day this year was fine, even somewhat fun. I volunteer the second Sunday of every month at my church, watching the three to six year olds, so I had to be there by 9AM. Afterwards, we had a picnic lunch and a short hike at a local winery. The weather was beautiful. I did a load of laundry and packed a salad for myself and one for my mom, all before heading to church.

Then I started seeing photos of friends on Facebook who were having elaborate Mother’s Day weekend celebrations. Whole weekends celebrating motherhood while I had to share half a day with my mom. And I got pissed.

I already share my bed, my meals, my bathroom time – heck, all of my time – with the kids. And, in return, I should get one full day that really is all about me. But then, I have a mother, too.

I have quite a few friends whose mothers have already passed away. Others still whose mothers live far away or who just can’t be bothered to spend time with their daughters and grandchildren. And I am truly grateful for mine and she certainly deserves to be celebrated.

But, wouldn’t it be better if we each got a special day? At least while I’m still the one wiping my kids’ butts?

Turns out Grandparents Day is September 7 this year. I had to Google it because I knew there was one, I just didn’t know when. Grandparents Day is relatively new, and was officially declared by Congress in 1978. Well, I think it’s about time it got its due.

I’ve added a to-do item on my phone to work with my kids’ schools this August to make crafts for Grandparents Day. The year will still be fresh, and the kids, not having just celebrated Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week and struggling with end of the year burn out, will be happy to oblige.

And then next year, I’m going to switch my volunteer day at church so I don’t have to volunteer on Mother’s Day, AKA the day that will be all about me.

Are you with me, fellow mommies?