Today was Mother’s Day. A special day for many. A tougher day for some. For me?… it was a strange mix. A very strange mix.

One year ago, on Mother’s Day morning, I held my Dad as he died. I can barely write this as it still seems fresh and unbelievable. He was my best friend. My longest friend. And, someone I miss deeply.

Today was one of those “first anniversaries” for me. A hard one as my brain relives the sights, sounds, words, smells, feelings, gestures, hugs, love, tears of this day, one year ago. (even though the official date was the 10th… it still was Mother’s Day, on the Sunday) (and will I go through this again on the 10th?)

I have friends who lost their mother this past year, so today was a first for them as well. I imagined how tough it might have been for those friends on facebook to watch the stream of loving photos and love notes.

“Hallmark” holidays can be a challenge. Especially if you didn’t have a great childhood or a parent who just couldn’t love you the way you would hope.  And, if one of these commercial days happen to fall on a significant date for you and your loved ones, the wonkyness increases. Just as it’s been for me today.

But… it still was Mother’s Day and my Mom is still here.

It’s been a tough year for her… well, a few tough years and then today showed up. Fortunately, a good friend kicked in and we teamed up to successfully get Mom up and out (even though I’m in Vancouver and they’re in Prince Edward Island). She ended up having a good country afternoon which included a Skype visit for us.

Tonight, I will attempt to go to sleep after a little chat, and a brandy “with” my Papa, and tell him his love was taken care of today and she had a better Mother’s Day than anticipated.

And, me? I’m writing a blog post to help me. Haha… But he probably knows all of this already.

How was your day? In all sincerity, I hope you found a way to embrace it peacefully whatever your situation. And, if your mother is still around and your relationship is good, I hope you had fun!