Celebrating the Mothers in My Life

Mama with Papa!

Two days ago my beautiful and intelligent Grandmother, Vikentia turned 95. Amazing. My Dad’s family live forever thankfully-his Grandmother died at 113. For real. It’s that naturally organic food and sunshine. Good for the soul.

Despite my Grandma (Yiayia) living in Cyprus we have this unbreakable, close bond-there’s no generation gap or lack of understanding between us which is incredible. ( I’m so happy for all those Saturdays spent in Greek school.)

She is in fact more modern that my own parents in many ways. Today of all days I want to celebrate my wrinkle free, fiercely bright, funny and utterly kind Yiayia Vikentia. Happy Birthday Yiayia.

Next up is my wonderful Mum-when I found out I was pregnant with Oliver, my first thought was how can I compare to such a wonderful woman. Always fair, offering the best of advice (a real feminist she taught me women together are strong, a wore a badge aged 2 stating as much) and that we can achieve anything, loving-she is truly fabulous- and what she has achieved in life is simply awe inspiring.

Arriving in the UK from Cyprus as a young teen, she had one year to learn English-took all her O level’s, then aced her A levels before studying for a degree in Sociology and Politics then gaining a Master of Philosophy in Sociology at Bradford University and then a PGCE before becoming a lecturer. Wow. My Dad and her opened award winning restaurants later when my brother and I came along. Inspirational, the only person I know who can read 4 books a week-and a brilliant Grandma to my son who thinks she’s his second Mum, Happy Mothers Day Mama.

Last but not least, I’m one of the lucky ones to have such a cool Mother in Law. Sadly she lives in South Africa but we do visit and they also come to the UK often too. Cathy is the most incredible chef and her special chocolate cake is to die for.

Little Oliver still talks of Grandma Fifi and Grandad David everyday and adores them. They are the most patient and loving Grandparents O could ask for.

To all my readers: Mothers-to be,  Mamas, Grandmothers and Mothers in Law and of course the Mothers who are no longer with us but will never be forgotten: Happy Mothers Day.

Photograph ©Peter Broadbent.