Year after year I watch my four children grow, time is passing, my oldest, India will be 18 years-old in the fall, my youngest will be 6. I studying them, trying to understand who they are, asking myself how I can support them to the best of my abilities. I try to step back and allow them to make mistakes, truly be who they are and to understand that I must guide them and stay out of the way at the same time. Not always easy. Being a mother continues to be one of the most rewarding things I have ever been. I don’t always get it right. I beat myself up but I also know, that when I have compassion for myself and love for myself, in turn these qualities are learned by my children and they will manifest these qualities in their lives. I don’t believe motherhood is a thankless job, the acknowledgment for our work may not always be obvious. My trails and tribulations in motherhood have made me have compassion for my mother and for all mothers. Each of us struggling, learning and growing. This year as Mother’s day approaches, I encourage you to acknowledge yourself and those dear to you. Maybe treat yourself to a massage, a beautiful hike in nature (alone) or with a friend or maybe a special item off of my carefully curated Mother’s Day gift guide or treat your mom or best friend or ask your partner to treat you. Most importantly, hold yourself dear in the same way you hold your children.