With Mother’s Day this Sunday, families are planning many different ways of celebrating the day.

Children are the greatest gift of all for 92-year-old Thora Ireland from Bulahdelah.

Mrs Ireland said she will be kept busy on Sunday with visits and messages from her eight children, 23 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren.

“I have a wonderful family and I’ve been blessed to have them all,” she said.

“I’ve always tried to do my best by them and my trust has always been with the lord, and I am thankful to Him.”

Mrs Ireland said Sundays traditionally include a family lunch with her children’s families and frequently sees four-generations enjoying time together.

For Karuah mum Katie Hogan, Mother’s Day will be three times as special this year celebrating her first Mother’s Day with her eight-month old triplets.

The three boys, Kenny, Jackson and Will along with their three-year-old sister Grace, keep parents Katie and Phillip very busy.

Katie said although the triplets are a challenge at times, she is very happy to be celebrating Mother’s Day with her bundles of joy.

“I am very blessed to have four healthy beautiful babies this Mother’s Day as some women are denied that luxury,” she said.

“Phil and I defiantly experience tough days, but days like Mother’s Day remind us how lucky we really are.”

Katie said she is looking forward to spending the day with her children and extended family with plans for a get together with the couples Mother’s and Grandmother’s.

Mother’s Day is always special for single working mother of five Michelle Carter from Tea Gardens.

Michelle said although balancing home life with school, sport and work with her children aged six to 18-years is very hectic, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Each of my children have filled my life with much love, laughter and tears and I love them all to the moon and back,” she said.

“I am no way a perfect parent, but I try as hard as I can, you just have to do the best you can with what you have.”

Michelle said she is looking forward to sharing Mother’s Day with her children Taylah, Hayden, Emma, Amelia and Mitchell.

No matter what plans you have to show you care on Mother’s Day, the message is always the same, “Thanks Mum, I love you.”

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN