Origins: mid 15th c., “sweetheart chosen on St. Valentine’s Day,” from L.L. Valentinus, the name of two early Italian saints (from L. valentia “strength, capacity”). Choosing a sweetheart on this day originated in the 14th c. as a custom in English and French court circles.“For this was on seynt Volantynys day Whan euery bryd cometh there to chese his make.” Chaucer, “Parlement of Foules,” c.1381

It is assumed that the date reflected the informal first day of spring in whatever Fr. region invented the custom (many surviving medieval calendars note the start of spring on the 7th or 22nd of February).  The custom of sending special cards or letters on this date flourished in England c.1840-1870, declined around the turn of the 20th century, and was revived again in the 1920s. […]

Dear Readers: This delightful e-mail was sent by UK-based Mothering writer Ellie Stoneley,  as she sat at her computer (writing me) along with her  two-year-old daughter, Hope.

“OFF TO Put HOPE WHO IS playing with mY KEYBOARD right now to BED!!! NOTE The cAPS GOING UP AND DOWN AS SHE presses tHE KEY WITH THE LIGHT ON!” XO-E

Ellie Being Watched on TV By Her Two-Yr. Old Daughter

A recent Guardian (UK) article about the increasing popular of older mothers putting a strain on the already-filled plates of midwives in that country has created a stir which is slowly trickling around the world.

http://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/jan/05/older-mothers-strain-midwives

Ever ready to tackle any number of issues surrounding new older mothering, we asked UK-based Ellie Stoneley for her perspective, after she appeared on the BBC1 Show “The Big Question.” The topic: “Is Being a Mum in Midlife, Selfish?”

The photo shows her during the show.

Fat and Old?

I had an email from a news agency last week asking if I was available for an interview on the strength of the Royal College of Midwives report regarding the rising number of births in the UK to mothers over the age of 40. The email was clumsily worded:

“On Tuesday (we have) a special report on the rise in the number of obese mums and over-40 mums-to-be. As such we would be very keen to have you on for a live interview on the day.” […]

Dear Reader – I write often about motherhood, children and life.  I write about my experiences, the experiences of others and provide general social commentary regarding our lives. But, a photo by my friend and Mothering writer, Wendy Sue Noah, struck a deep chord.

Here’s her seven-year-old son, Samaj, meditating among the things he cherishes the most. Here he is, surrounded by a wall of safety; here he’s found his “place,” his hallowed ground. So, it is to him that I dedicate this essay.

Safety is something I care deeply about. I do not so much mean safety from external elements, but rather the internal safety which carries us far throughout our lives.

In my daily yoga practice, and my thrice-weekly yoga sessions, I patiently work through physical, emotional and physiological issues. I give daily thanks and blessings; I am full of gratitude for the things that I have and for the life I lead. But, I struggle with the safety part – the result of childhood experiences and personal traumas.

Therefore, safety is paramount for me – it determines what I do and when; how I feel and why I’ve chosen some of my paths. This photo now sits above my computer – a testament to the power of children, the ability to exercise free-will, and the safety that life, at its finest, can truly bestow.

May I offer you, in advance of the New Year, many blessings for safety, good health, happiness and all that your heart desires. May this be a good year for your children, your friends and those you hold dear to your heart. May your life be filled with ease.

From my heart to yours –

Cyma

Dear Readers: We’ve been asked to participate in this. (If applicable) I hope you will!

Dr. Dinah Meyer, a faculty member in the psychology department at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio, is putting together a research study on the experiences of first-time mothers over 40.

“Very little research has examined the experiences of new mothers over 40, so it is my hope that the knowledge gained from this study will further our understanding and care of this growing population of mothers,” says Meyer, who had her first child at 40.

Meyers is using an online survey to assist in her research.  The questions ask about pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the post-partum period. The questions are both medical and social/emotional in nature.

Meyer says the online survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and participants’ responses are completely anonymous – names or any other identifying information will not be asked.  Also, the participants will not be contacted in any way after their participation. To participate in this study, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/First-timemomover40

Dear Reader: I stumbled on this and thought it worth reprinting a few excerpts. I especially note #1 and #9:

Notes to myself on beginning a painting

1. Attempt what is not certain. Certainty may or may not come later. It may then be a valuable delusion.
2. The pretty, initial position which falls short of completeness is not to be valued — except as a stimulus for further moves.
3. Do search. But in order to find other than what is searched for.