Some Moms Don’t Get the Day Off (And That’s Okay)

By Victoria Cortez, Author & Curator of Childhood Wisdom, All Good Things N More

Let’s be honest: Mother’s Day isn’t always breakfast in bed and spa days. Sometimes it’s folding laundry while reheating coffee for the third time. Sometimes it’s navigating sibling squabbles while mentally drafting tomorrow’s to-do list. And for many of us — it’s just another Sunday.

My husband works full-time, so Mother’s Day this year looked a lot like any other day in our house. The usual noise, the usual mess, the usual marathon of love, snacks, and survival.

And yet, I still wanted to honor the day — not with balloons or brunch reservations, but with a moment for me. So, the day before Mother’s Day, after my husband came home from work, I slipped out for a bit and got my nails done. Just me, a little peace, and a reminder that self-care is not selfish — it’s sacred.

To the moms who didn't get a break yesterday, who showed up tired but still showed up anyway — I see you. Whether you're single-parenting, tag-teaming with a partner on a full shift, or managing more than your fair share behind the scenes — you are not invisible. You are invaluable.

And to those for whom this day brings ache instead of joy — I want to pause for you, too. To those who have lost their mothers, who feel the hole a little deeper on days like this — I see your sorrow, and I honor your grief. To those who’ve had to go no-contact, who’ve set hard boundaries to protect your peace — I respect your courage, your healing, your quiet strength.

This day is not always soft and sweet. For many, it’s layered, complicated, even painful. If that’s you — please know there is space for you here.

Self-care for moms, especially during emotionally heavy holidays, might not always look like a day at the spa. Sometimes it’s a quiet drive, a fresh set of nails, or sitting in the car for five extra minutes just breathing. Take it. Own it. You matter too.

If you’re looking for ways to honor yourself as a mom — especially when the world doesn’t — check out our Free Parent’s Guide to Raising Resilient Kids and browse our All Good Things N More Book Series for stories that uplift, inspire, and help children grow into emotionally grounded humans.

Need a reset? Download our Self-Care Checklist for Busy Moms and take a few moments back for yourself.

Want more honest reflections? Read more at our Motherhood & Mental Health blog section.

For those seeking connection and support, we also recommend trusted resources like NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness and The Mighty, which offer real stories and support for mental health and grief.

So here’s to us — the everyday warriors, the comforters, the makers of magic and managers of mayhem. Even if no one handed you flowers yesterday, this one’s for you.

Keep blooming. Keep breathing. Keep becoming.

With love and solidarity,

Victoria

Mom of 7, Champion of Chaos, and Builder of All Good Things N More