Mother’s Day still filled with love, even hundreds of miles apart
On this particular May 9, some members of the Chapman community feel an increased urge to celebrate their mothers or maternal figures. DANIEL PEARSON, Staff Photographer
Classic Mother’s Day essentials may consist of a scrumptious brunch, a bouquet of red roses, constant hugs and lipstick-smearing kisses for mom.
The day has always been bittersweet to me. Typically, I would flip through photo albums to see precious moments of me and my mom at Disneyland, sunbathing at the pool or just snuggling on the couch. I see those photos, carrying their early-2000s vintage tint, and just wish I could teleport back into those memories. My mom, who I dub “Pauline the Queen,” is quite frankly my best friend, my spin class buddy, a cheese board aficionado and, in my opinion, the best mother in the whole damn world.
As some Chapman college students live hundreds of miles away from their hometowns, they’re consequently unable to spend this Mother’s Day with their maternal figures. Although physically apart, these loved ones may receive personalized candles, personalized calendars or well-deserved jewelry in the mail this special holiday.
So what are Chapman students doing this Mother’s Day to celebrate their maternal figures despite distance getting in the way?
Skylar Vice, a sophomore strategic and corporate communication major, couldn’t be physically present with her mom in her Santa Rosa home May 9, but she strived to make it just as special by sending flowers and scheduling a FaceTime.
“This will be the first year I am not in person with my mom, which kind of sucks, because normally I look forward to waking up and making the day special for her,” Vice said. “Last Valentine’s Day, even though I wasn’t with her, she did something sweet for me and sent me flowers, so I thought I would do that for her too on Mother’s Day.”
Sophomore communication studies major Vivian Nice also sent a specialized surprise to her mother from California. Nice told The Panther she put together a care package for her mom filled with a candle, chocolate and a frame of her favorite photo of the two. Nice said she showers her mom with love on this day, despite her mom living in Oregon, because of the constant cheerleading and encouragement she receives from her.
“She will always support me,” Nice said. “Even if it’s not the best decision or if I fail, she lets me make those decisions for myself. I am really grateful she taught me to go after all that I want and be my own person. She is a great role model and I definitely miss her a lot.”
Romy Rosen, a sophomore psychology major, scheduled a Zoom with her mom who resides in Oregon and also mailed a gift to her. Rosen said her mother is always up to sing in the car with her or cook dinner for their family — describing her in three words: selfless, supportive and brave.
“She’s always putting us first and supporting us no matter what,” Rosen said. “She’s shown me true bravery in being exactly who I am. She just always knows how to help me.”
Mother’s Day may, indeed, have looked different for many this year. Some are in different states than their mother for the first time. Some may have lost their mother amid the pandemic. Some may not have even met their mother or instead have two fathers. But maternal figures persist around us. Maybe it was the teacher who helped you with math late after school, the babysitter who always picked you up after swim practice, the older cousin who always seemed to have snacks and napkins for you in their bag.
They all deserve to be celebrated on this day. That maternal figure could be anyone. Mine just happens to be Pauline: my superhero, my inspiration and the reason for the life I have. So, thank you, Mom; I hope you had a mimosa for me this Mother’s Day. Cheers to you.