From Dance Floors to Church Pews: A Mother’s Day to Remember

Me and My 3 Littles on Mother's Day 2025

Mother’s Day has always looked a little different for me. I’ve spent one Mother’s Day yelling “point your toes!” from the back row of a dance competition, clutching a coffee cup like it was holy water and wondering when I became a full-time glam squad. And honestly? I wouldn’t trade it for the world. 

But if I’m being real, most of my Mother’s Days haven’t been spent relaxing. They were spent in retail management mode, headset on, schedule in hand, answering customer questions like, “Do you have anything for a mom who’s kinda sporty but also hates sports?” (seriously?)  I can’t count how many last-minute shoppers I’ve helped over the years on Mother’s Day. There’s nothing quite like watching someone panic-shop at 9:45 a.m. for a noon brunch. Pro tip: A lint roller is not a thoughtful gift, no matter how much someone tries to convince themselves otherwise. 

In those years, I wasn’t just managing a team, I was kind of their work mom, too. I was the one they came to when their register froze, when their life felt overwhelming, or when they needed a little pep talk before closing shift. And let me tell you, nothing warmed my heart more than getting a text this Mother’s Day from one of my old associates just to say, “Happy Mother’s Day, Work Mom! I miss you.” That kind of love? You carry it with you, even after you hang up the headset. 

This year, though, was different. It was quiet. It was sacred. I spent my Mother’s Day in church with my family, soaking in worship and peace instead of running around a sales floor. It reminded me how much beauty there is in being still, and how God has walked with me in every season of motherhood, whether I was clocked in, clapping in the audience, or just catching my breath. 

And as always, the highlight of my Mother’s Day was the sweet gifts my kids made me, handwritten cards, homemade crafts, and those wildly creative “coupons” I can cash in for hugs or chores (I plan to frame those instead of redeeming them). The best part? My kids never make it to Sunday. They come barreling through the door after school on Friday shouting, “MOM! I HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU! OPEN IT NOW!” And let’s be honest… when a glitter-covered card is handed over with that much excitement, waiting just isn’t an option. 

In all the chaos and charm of motherhood, whether I was managing a store, cheering from the sidelines, or quietly praying in a pew. I’m reminded of God’s beautiful design for a mother’s heart. Proverbs 31:28 says, “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Some years, those blessings show up in text messages and crayon drawings. Some years, they show up in the stillness. 

Motherhood is sacred, messy, hilarious, exhausting, and holy. And whether your day was spent in heels or house shoes, know this: you are deeply loved, and the work you're doing is making an eternal impact. 

Happy Mother’s Day to the moms, the managers, the makers of magic. Whether you opened your gifts early, worked a shift, or finally had a moment to exhale in church, you are appreciated more than words can say. 

With love, laughter, and a heart full of gratitude, 

Raquel 💜 

Me and My Oldest Christyana

Retired Retail Queen 

"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." – Proverbs 31:25