The NVD community consists of many female teachers who take on another important role outside of the classroom – being a mother. Mother’s Day is a touching holiday that many moms look forward to on the second Sunday of every May. However, each celebration looks a little different for each family, especially for new mothers. The first time a mom brings a new life into the world is a moment she’ll never forget. Moreover, many mothers are lucky enough to continue experiencing the heartfelt day for years to come.
One of NVD’s technology educators, Alexandra Dunn, has two boys under the age of four. While she is relatively new to being a mother, she has built a fun and comforting routine with her family on Mother’s Day.
“My Mother’s Day now always starts out with a family walk to our favorite coffee shop to get a matcha and pastries. We then spend the rest of the day in our backyard with family and friends for a…barbecue watching whatever baseball game or golf tournament is on that day,” Dunn said.
While Dunn enjoys Mother’s Day in the present and looks forward to many more in the future, she chooses to reminisce about her most recent and cherished celebration as a mom.
“My last Mother’s Day stands out to me because my son was old enough to actually make me something for Mother’s Day! It is something I will keep forever,” Dunn said.
Ilana Mitlitski is a close colleague of Dunn’s in the same department. She is a mother with many more years of experience since she has two sons who are over the age of 17. Therefore, her Mother’s Day has seen various changes over the years.
“It used to be full of hand-drawn pictures, video messages, lots of hugs and kisses. Now it is more subtle. A nice dinner that includes whatever children are in town. Being able to take pictures with my kid, who never wants me to take pictures with him,” Mitlitski said.
Additionally, Mitlitski values being around her loved ones and makes the most of her time, no matter where Mother’s Day is celebrated.
“For the past three years, Mother’s Day has been spent at soccer tournaments. These are always fun, and hanging out with my family as well as other families while on a mini-vacation is a real treat,” Mitlitski said.
On the other hand, many first-time mothers do not always know what to expect or how to handle their first celebration. In order to ease the tension, moms with only some experience and/or many years of experience choose to gladly pass along any advice they have.
“I would tell first-time moms to make sure you get nice photos with your children! As moms, we are always the ones behind the camera. Make sure someone focuses on capturing the day so you can have those memorable photos to look back on each year,” Dunn said.
Furthermore, Mitlitski keeps her recommendations to the point, but with a meaningful implication – find the little joys in life, especially as a mom.
“Enjoy whatever comes your way,” Mitlitski said.
While Mother’s Day is felt and celebrated in so many different ways, it can be defined in universal terms as well.
“It is really a day to recognize and appreciate everything mothers and mother figures do for their families,” Dunn said.
