On Mother’s Day, why not turn the tables on mom and ask her a thing or two you’ve always wanted to know about her life. These types of questions can be asked casually, or put in a notebook so you and your kids can read them over and over in the years to come.
What Was Your Favorite Toy Growing Up?
I once asked my grandma this question and was so surprised to see her face light up as she answered. This question can tell you a lot about the way your mom grew up. If she had money, if her family struggled, if she was spoiled, if her biggest toy was her imagination… all of it will give you context about her childhood. It will allow you to see your mom as the little girl she once was.
What Is a Line From Your Favorite Poem?
Not everyone is into poetry, but all of us probably cherish one or two lines from a favorite poem. Allow her to recite her poem (or just the line) and then ask her specifically why she likes it. She’ll probably reveal something she’s never really talked about before, since poetry does have the power to reach deep into someone’s heart. Or, she may just tell you that she just likes the way it sounds! Either way, you’ll learn something new about her.
Which Singer Would You Like to Have Over for Dinner?
Musical tastes do tend to change over the years, so if your mom never talks about going to concerts or spending her hard-earned cash on records, then you’ll have a good time hearing about why she digs a certain singer. This question will probably spur a lot of memories, like the first time she heard a song by her favorite singer, the times she danced to his music, or even the line from a song she loves.
What’s the One Thing You’re Most Proud Of?
Chances are she’ll say something like her children or her marriage, but this is about fun questions, so encourage her to go a little bit deeper than that. I think we all cherish our family and children above all else, but if you give her a minute she’ll probably tell you something you hadn’t even expected she was proud of. This will prompt a different kind of conversation that you’ll be likely to remember always.
