Mother's Day Medicine Mothers deserve to have more than one day a year to be honoured and pampered…at least, all us mothers think so! But being mothers, we’d never say that out loud. That seems to be the big Mommy issue! Mothers (is it genetic or societal?) always put others first! That may be the reason our society has continued to be optimistic and forward looking. Mothers don’t allow despair to enter their minds, but there is a downside to the givingness. Burnout! Many women are now realizing that they must devote time to themselves in order to have a healthy relationship with their children and other family members. Too often women become caregivers to aging parents as well as growing families, not to mention needy spouses. Something’s got to give. Young women in our society seem to be finding a middle ground and many that I know are not compulsive about housecleaning or cooking. Healthy food, though, is the backbone for a healthy family! “Garbage in, garbage out” is a saying that had a tremendous effect on me and my family. Instead of turning to fast foods and handy (fatty, sweet) snacks to fill up hungry tummies, we turned to easy to prepare veggies with yogurt dip, brown rice, with beans and lentils, and many other quick to prepare, natural fare. Of course, Mother’s Day is the day when children and husbands prepare either a breakfast tray for Mom, or a big dinner. Many go out for brunch or dinner allowing Mom to avoid cleanups and mistakes. Monday morning is always another day… But Mom……..take some time to sit and read the paper or a novel that’s been sitting on the shelf for a year. You owe it to yourself to treat your body to a relaxing bath with scented oils or bubbles to rejuvenate your mind along with your aching muscles. This should not be a once-a-year treat! How about starting with once a month, and graduating to once a week? Many men get together with their buddies on a regular basis to catch up on gossip and vehicle stuff, but few women allow themselves the time to see their girlfriends without having children hanging around, needing attention. Not too long ago, women were actually made to feel guilty for wanting a life of their own. Now the pendulum has swung the other way, where they’re being made to feel guilty for taking time for themselves. The ME generation is now caught between a rock and a hard place because they know they must take care of their own needs before they can help others. I read articles every day where it’s stated that the young generation is too self-centered and not interested in the care-giving aspect of women’s lives. Here is a recipe you can print out for your children (and husband) to purchase ingredients and prepare on Mother’s Day morning that uses only one pot, takes care of protein, vegetables, carbohydrates and vitamins for the day. Make sure you do this once a month….not once a year! Happy Mother’s Day! Bauernschmaus (German for Fritata) 4 to 6 eggs (depending on how many in family will be eating) ½ c. chopped green peppers ½ c. finely sliced celery ½ c. chopped onions ½ c, mushrooms 1 cup brussels sprouts cut into pieces (optional)] 1 cup finely diced potatoes (more or less as desired) 1 c. smoked turkey, chicken, or meat substitute such as veggie ground round (optional) ½ tsp.Herbamare or vegesalt Oregano, marjoram, and other spices to taste In a buttered, bake-proof bowl or casserole, beat eggs lightly with spices. Add all other ingredients. Mix lightly so that veggies are evenly distributed. Place in preheated oven (375 degrees) and bake for about 25/30 minutes. When toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, casserole is ready to serve. Serve with salsa and hot biscuits or whole wheat toast. MMMMMM. This appropriate paragraph taken from a Mother’s Day message (author is anonymous) says it all!!! The heart of a woman is what makes the world spin! Women do more than just give birth. They bring joy and hope. They give compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. Women have a lot to say and a lot to give. To be continued next week. Back to the Writing Index