Related:
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Being a mum is the best job in the world, say three generations of women who have celebrated Mother’s Day together.
Wilma Henderson, a mother of four, grandmother of 24 and great-grandmother of 35, was joined by family including daughter Pamela Bell and granddaughter Naomi van der Leeuw for a celebratory afternoon tea on Friday.
With a large and growing family, Mrs Henderson said each member was special.
“It’s a privilege to watch them grown and develop into fine people,” the Mercy Health Bethlehem resident said.
A mother of 10, Mrs Bell said she felt that being a mum was to raise a family and be a light in the world, and her mother had been a prime example of that.
Mrs Henderson added that it was her own mother who had instilled in her good values.
From her mother and grandmother, Mrs van der Leeuw said she learnt the importance of loving and caring for others.
“It’s absolutely special to see your little people grow into adults with good values and morals, and just being their friend, it’s lovely,” Mrs van der Leeuw said.
A nurturing nature is something that the three women believe has been passed down the family line.
Perfectionism, too, is another trait shared by the women, as is a strong faith.
Mrs Bell said they were homemakers and loved the garden and sewing, something that had also been shared by her grandmother.
She said her mother had always been very loving towards her children and had been their “everything” in life, while Mrs Henderson said it had been a joy to be the mother to her four daughters.
Mrs van der Leeuw said her grandmother had been very supportive in her grandchildren’s lives and counted her mum as her best friend.
With many years of mothering experience between them, the three women have some advice for new mums, with Mrs van der Leeuw suggesting they appreciate every moment.
“Every little moment’s special and creates so many beautiful memories, when they’re young and old,” she said.
Mrs Bell said it was important to support and celebrate children’s achievements, and give them plenty of time to grow up.
“I think it’s very important to always be there for them if they need you… it’s a real privilege to be able to support them in lots of ways,” Mrs Henderson added.