Several holidays are celebrated during the month of May. My favorite is Mother’s Day—the one day each year when we take time to honor and thank our moms. One special day doesn’t seem to me to be enough if you think about all that our moms do and give to us on a continual basis. Where would we be without our mothers?

I’m lucky because I have both a wonderful mother and fabulous grandmother—two women guiding and looking out for me! My grandma, Mary, a strong and independent woman, is my conscience. If I’m ever in doubt about a choice, stuck in a grey area between what I feel is right and wrong, I just have to ask myself, “What would Grandma Mary think?” and I know what to do (or not do)! Having such a solid moral compass is invaluable to me.

My mom, Veronica, is my encouragement. There has never been a time when she told me I shouldn’t attempt a challenge. If I told her I was throwing my hat in the 2008 presidential race or entering the American Idol contest, she’d say with sincerity, “That’s fabulous honey! I’m sure you’ll win.” (For the sake of clarity, I do know I’m deeply unqualified for either pursuit.) Having someone in your life who completely believes that you cannot fail gives you confidence and a somewhat fearless outlook on life.

Recently, in talking with some friends about moms in general, I was surprised to learn how many of us think of our mothers as our “rock.” So many of us turn to our mothers when we have news to share, advice to ask, or comfort to seek. Of course, many of us have complicated relationships with our moms and it isn’t always smooth sailing, but when push comes to shove, Mom is the one you can count on. What a blessing a mother is!

Mom and I don’t have any specific plans yet for Mother’s Day, but we always spend the day together. Mom says, “The holiday was invented for children to spend time with their mothers, not phone it in or donate to Hallmark.” You’re right again Mom!

However you spend your days this month, treasure those you love, and enjoy some quality time together. I’ll talk with you all again in June!

SPECIAL NOTES

Spring is often the time for a little sprucing up! This may be the time to try a new hairstyle or maybe hair extensions. Avid Salon (page 1) can help you with a new look. — If you are helping an aging parent make the transition to a new home, Bickford Assisted Living (page 23) offers you options. — Chiropractic Neurology & Sports Rehabilitation (page 3) is the place to call if you have questions about fibromyalgia. — If you are looking to treat yourself, check out Cosmetic Dermatology & Laser (page 1) or visit their Web site at www.cosmeticdermatologylincoln.com to see monthly specials. — Gynecologic Surgeons & Obstetricians, P.C. offers expertise in women’s health care. See their ad on page 15. — Women’s Edition welcomes Hartland Homes to our group of advertisers. Visit their ad (page 18) to see how they can help you become a home owner! — Now is the time of year when we all think of dropping a few pounds and getting into shape. Inches-A Weigh (page 3) might give you the encouragement you need. — If a surgical procedure is in your future, consider Lincoln Surgical Group, P.C. (Joy of Living Section). They specialize in noninvasive, laparoscopic surgical procedures. — As we age, some of us might begin to struggle with sleep disturbances, fatigue, weight gain, and maybe hot flashes. Pharmacy Specialty Services (Joy of Living Section) offers natural/bio-identical hormone therapy to help with these symptoms. — Perhaps weight loss isn’t a goal but toning is. Pilates Movement (page 5) offers inexpensive mat classes and personalized instruction to tone those trouble spots. — Plastic Surgical Arts is offering a special treat for moms this month. See their ad on page 3. — Ross Internal Medicine P.C. (page 19) can manage all your healthcare needs from the common cold to a serious illness.

POSITIVE THOUGHT OF THE MONTH

“You may have tangible wealth untold; caskets of jewels and coffers of gold. Richer than I, you can never be—I had a mother who read to me.” —Strickland Gillilan