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When Mother’s Day Looks Different: Grief, Love, and Remembering Mom

Mother’s Day doesn’t look the same for everyone.

For some, it’s a joyful day filled with brunch, hugs, and flowers. For others, it’s a quiet ache. A day of remembrance. A day of grief. A day that stirs up memories, longing, and love that never left.

This year, Mother’s Day feels different for me.

It’s the first one without my mom.

Last May, just a week before Mother’s Day, she had her first serious hospitalization. I stepped more fully into the role of caregiver. I didn’t know then how much life would change—or that it would be our last Mother’s Day together.

If you’re reading this and your heart is heavy, please know: you are not alone.

Maybe your mom has passed. Maybe she’s still with you, but dementia has changed everything. Maybe you’re in the trenches of caregiving and grieving what used to be, even while your mother is still alive. Wherever you are, your grief is sacred. Your love still matters.

Honoring Our Mothers Through Memory

This week, I’ve been reflecting on the small things: her laughter, her favorite sayings, her gentle spirit. I’m remembering the meals she cooked, the prayers she whispered, and the strength she carried in her smile.

Sometimes, remembering hurts. But it also heals.

So today, I want to invite you into something sacred: the act of remembering. Take a moment to reflect on:

• A favorite memory of your mom or grandmother
• A piece of advice she gave you that still shapes your life
• A recipe, a scent, a saying that brings her close again
• A photo that holds a thousand unspoken words

Feel free to share your story in the comments or by replying to the newsletter this week. I’ll be reading every one.

Preserve Her Story with As Told By Grandma

One of the most meaningful ways we can honor the women who raised us is by preserving their stories.

That’s why I created As Told By Grandma, a guided memory and keepsake journal designed to help capture life stories, favorite things, cherished recipes, and wisdom that shouldn’t be lost.

Whether you’re documenting your grandmother’s voice, or preserving the memories of a mom who has passed, this journal is a beautiful way to honor their legacy.

Grab your copy:

• As Told By Grandma on Amazon (Hardcover & Paperback)
• Digital Edition on Etsy (Printable PDF)

A Prayer for the Brokenhearted

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

Lord, this Mother’s Day, draw near to those who mourn. Comfort the hearts that ache. Wrap Your arms around those remembering mamas gone too soon, or grieving a relationship changed by time or illness. Remind them that You are near, and that love never dies in You.

You’re Not Alone

Whether this day brings tears or laughter—or both—I pray you feel the peace of knowing that your love, your grief, your memories, and your caregiving are seen and sacred.

You are doing holy work. And you don’t have to do it alone.

Be gentle with yourself this Mother’s Day. And if you’re able, write her story.

With love,
Stephanie
Caregiving Gracefully

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