This Sunday is Mother’s Day and this sparks a bit of a challenge in many homes, not just blended families. I have girlfriends whose husbands have let the day float by unnoticed, telling their wives, “You’re not MY mother!” While it’s never a great idea to expect gifts, it is nice to be acknowledged for your mothering role in your home.

Before I had my own biological children, my husband always made sure I had a card from my stepson for mother’s day. Of course, given the court ordered visitation schedule, my stepson is always with his mom on Mother’s Day (as he should be – when Father’s Day rolls around, he’s with us) – but typically the week after I would get a card from him. Coincidentally, the Sunday after Mother’s Day is Stepmother’s Day – so, mark that one on your calendars!

While I don’t expect gifts on Mother’s Day (don’t get me wrong, I won’t turn ‘em away!), I do expect appreciation for my mom-ness: for packing lunches, for kissing boo-boo’s, for tucking kids in at night. A hand drawn card from one of my kids makes me absolutely giddy. A good bear hug is a nice bonus.

Do you celebrate Mother’s Day? Do your stepchildren acknowledge you on Mother’s Day (or Stepmother’s Day)?

Photo credit: sh0dan