Mother's are the matriarch of a family. A pillar of strength, love, instinctual protection, and never ending support to their children. To be a mother is a life long commitment tethered with challenging times and cherished moments. This year, I would like to highlight my own mother and use the outlet of Blended Society Beauty to get to know her on a different level. Known to my friends as, Mama Ana, but known to my brothers and me as "moooommm, mama".
Our first trip together in Florence, Italy 2019
Before we get started on this brief interview. I would like to share some things about my mom. My mom was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA- the fourth child out of five to my grandparents and has been a single mom since I was born balancing three children. I wouldn't describe my mom as a "hallmark" mom at all and I wouldn't want her to be. My mom is brutally honest, with zero tolerance for phoniness. This may be due to her serving in the US Navy when she was 18 and moved to Guam, or it could be because she raised her three kids full time on her own all of our lives- so I think it's safe to assume that being honest is efficient and keeps the train moving without drama.
There are many qualities that I see in myself when it comes to her. People have commented on my mannerisms and have told me, "Oh my god. You sounded just like your mom when you said that." She has a way of greeting people that is energetic, lively, and real which is something I've always observed when she walks in the room. She has a wicked sense of humor and a laugh that is so contagious that you can't help but laugh even if you are not in on the joke. The sound and the vibration is an instant mood booster. My mom has shared her love for volleyball with her kids which has become it's own chromosome being passed down through generations. Now, she is a grandmother who is actively peaking curiosity imagination, and a healthy lifestyle with her two grandkids by passing on some of community gems we, as her children were privileged to experience.
My mom running her first marathon after a few years of health concerns with her granddaughter, Sofia. 2022.
I continue to get to know my mom everyday and enjoy watching her be fearless all the time. She is always exploring her curiosities through being a part of different clubs, trying a new skill, a new recipe, or just seeing how she takes care of every day challenges that need her attention as she gets older. She is detailed, thorough, in the proper state of mind to focus, and doesn't give anything less than her best in the moment. Nothing ever breaks, she doesn't lose anything, and she doesn't rush something that needs her attention. I still can hear the echos of her voice saying, "Ana, complete the task." referring to when I didn't want to put effort in to chores that kept the operations of our family moving efficiently. Now I always see things to the end with quality and care.
Twinning in Florence, Italy 2019.
I text my mom these questions yesterday, and as I expected. There was no delay, detailed responses, and grammar/spelling was correct. Again, she is efficient.
How old is your oldest child?
[Mom]: 35
Celebrating 35 years of motherhood!
How has motherhood changed for you over the years?
[Mom]: My three kids were so close in age, I feel like I handled them like an assembly line. Lots of group play too. Now that they're adults, I can spend more time with them individually and participate in their individual interests.
What was something that you loved about your mother that you've never told her?
[Mom]: My mom always looked for the best quality foods to serve us. She had different markets that she would go to, depending on what she was making. She wanted to give her family the best flavors and eating experience. Sharing meals with her family was quality time.
What was a childhood dream that had to be put to the side to prioritize motherhood to three children?
Going to college.
Did you ever revisit that dream when your children grew up?
[Mom]: I worked full time and also tried taking one class per semester while raising my kids. I realized it would take away two nights a week from my kids, but I needed to do that for myself. Studying and making progress in my college credits brought me happiness.
What is your favorite thing about being a mother now?
[Mom]: My favorite thing about being a mother right now is continuing to be involved in my kids' lives. This includes them sharing their families, friends, and interests. I can see the seed I planted and watch how it's grown.
What's your favorite small tradition that only you and your children do together that you are still passing down to future generations?
[Mom]: I've always said, when you're poor, you play with a ball. Although we're not struggling financially anymore, I still enjoy sports activities with my kids and grandkids. Playing volleyball, kicking a ball around, going to the beach, boogie boarding, making sand castles, stuff like that and getting exercise. Going to the zoo and having my kids talk about their days in zoo camp and telling me the back stories about the animals at the zoo. Those are all investments I've made in my kids' education in life.
I hope that someone uses these questions as a conversation starter to get to know their mom even more. For me, it is important to remember that my mom had a whole life and aspirations before I came along and hope to understand all of the pivots she made along the way that led her to be the woman she is today.
Thank you for reading.
Ana
Comentários