Becoming a mother gives you a whole new appreciation for the day that honors moms.

This year I am hoping that the cards I bought for the important women in my life actually make it to them in time. If not, at least get a sneak preview here.

For my mom: Not a fan of the poetic cards with flowers and candy adorning them, I handpicked this "wanted" Seltzer Goods card that states, "You're one of a kind" inside.

To see the other cards for other types of moms, read more

While many new moms are anxious to get their lil darlings out of diapers, San Francisco Chronicle reporter and author Regan
McMahon is experiencing a milestone long down the line — that of her son leaving the nest.

In "The Great Letting Go" she talks about her emotions in saying goodbye to her firstborn as he prepares for college. In regard to how hard it is to let go, she said:

This comes as a great surprise to a mom who, when he was a baby and toddler, couldn't wait for him to go to sleep by 8 so my husband and I could briefly recapture our life as a pre-kid couple. When he got to be a bigger kid, I relished every play date and sleepover that freed me to do what I wanted for a little while.

To finish the story, read more

Every mother thinks her child is exceptional, but some end up raising tots that turn into superstars, business moguls and acclaimed athletes.

Inspired by motherhood, author Stephanie Hirsch interviewed many moms of notables for her book. Mother Nurture ($17).

The hardbound collection of short stories include tidbits and tips from the women who raised America's best and brightest — Diane Sawyer, Tony Hawk, Beyonce Knowles, Tim McGraw and numerous others. A far cry from a textbok guide, this is a must read because it's all about the practical aspects of parenting.

To see what some of the women had to say, read more

Once when my aunt was queasy in the car and they couldn't pull over, my grandmother passed her hat back for the child to throw up in.

While I've never tried that trick, in a pinch I've caught vomit in my hands, my skirt, a blanket, a box, and a shopping bag.

Unless your tot gets carsick, you probably won't have too many of these situations.

To see what happened to me recently, read more