Sunday is Mother's Day, a celebration dedicated to recognizing and honoring mothers' vital role in people’s lives.
"It's always encouraging to be encouraged by others, mothers, and told that I'm doing a good job,” said mom Megan McCants. “[They say] 'keep it up. You're a great mother.'"
Many mothers act as everyday superheroes, but often don't get the recognition they deserve.
"It's the greatest gift one could have and the greatest challenge one could undertake all at once,” said mom Alka Mysore. “But three years into motherhood, I feel like I still have a long way to go."
Taking the time to be recognized by other mothers in the community, Leah Reed was hailed as the Capital Region's best mom this weekend. This is an annual celebration that honors the mother of the family, motherhood, maternal bonds and the role of mothers in society.
Allison Armstrong, a mother of three, continues a tradition that began as a little girl by attending Tulipfest. She says sharing experiences with her children brings nostalgia and joy, and is a way to pass down family values and build strong relationships between generations. She says it serves as a reminder of how far she's come and the progress made.
"I remember coming here as a kid, bringing my mom and doing all the food trucks and seeing all the flowers at the events,” Armstrong said. “So it's really nice to share it with my kiddos now."
For Nancy Hayward, who lost her mother, there is a source of wisdom, strength and solace even without her physical presence. She says guidance and support can be felt even in her mother's absence.
"I lost my mom 24 years ago and miss her every day,” Hayward said. “You know, they're here with you. They're always beside you and listening to them because they speak to you and always talk to you."
As a grandmother, Julia Long enjoys spoiling her grandchildren like no one else, a privilege that many long for. Grandparents often serve as a safe haven for grandchildren, offering unconditional love, wisdom and memories that last a lifetime.
"You have learned from your mistakes, and you have grown,” Long said. “And now you can give all the love you have for your children to your grandchildren. I think that's amazing."
New mothers like Holly Meredith can often face a wide range of emotional and physical challenges after becoming a mother. Because they don't receive a manual, they're always learning on the job and trying to do what's best for the family
“Getting advice from the internet can be overwhelming,” Meredith said. “There's a lot of stuff you can read, and some of it will work for you, while others will not. The only thing you can do is do what is best for your family and have fun."