Celebrating Moms Today and Every Day
This Sunday is the official day to honor our moms. It seems funny that this is the one day set aside each year to recognize all that moms do. We thank our moms for always being there, listening, cleaning up after our messes, nagging us just the right amount, encouraging us, bragging about us to their friends, being our biggest fan and critic and loving us unconditionally.
As a mom of three boys, I try each day to be the best mom I can be. I encourage, critique, love, remind, laugh and instill Jewish values. I am there for my three boys who are quickly becoming men. I hope they will value the strength of a loving mom and always honor the moms, including their Nana and Bubbie. They are lucky to have so many generations of women in their lives.
When people ask me what I do for my work, I always say I am a mom and a camp director. I find that these jobs intersect at camp. On our Apachi J Camp team, all nine of our day camps are led by moms and one dad. This is a winning combo as you not only have a seasoned camp professional at the head of camp but also a caring mom or dad. We instinctively know when a camper or staff member needs a hug, an extra dose of encouragement or just a “look” to guide onto the right path. It’s part of our special sauce at Apachi J Camps – having a caring mom or dad to take care of your camper.
I asked some of the Apachi J Camp directors to share thoughts about their own moms. Here’s what they had to say:
My mom is THE BEST. She advises me, “Don’t do stupid stuff.”
–Marni Katz, Apachi Chicago
My mom has been one of the biggest influences in my life. As my sister and I were growing up she made a conscience effort to celebrate our differences and each of our strengths. She did not want to compare us even from an early age. This helped us appreciate each other and kept us from being competitive. My mom has made sure to instill self-confidence in me from a very young age. She has always been my biggest cheerleader believing in me and rooting for me as well as pushing me to be the best I can be.
–Jamee Smith, ‘Z’ Frank Apachi
My mom’s advice: “No matter what; put clothes on that make you feel good.” and “Feel good about who you are.”
–Terri Blenner, ‘Z’ Frank Apachi
My mom was my role model. She was beautiful inside and out, giving of herself, family came first, independent and strong. She had an infectious laugh. She is who I am today and hope I am carrying on in her footsteps.
–Pam Siegel, J Camp Maven
As for my mom, she is truly an amazing lady. She’s fun, honest, stylish, loving and reliable. My mom always puts us first, which she passed down for the way I am with my boys. We were fortunate to have my grandma in our lives until she was 103. She, too, was a strong, caring, stylish lady who has a great laugh and love for family.
Happy Mother’s Day to all of our Apachi J Camp moms and families.
We celebrate you today and every day!