Mother’s Day is just around the corner! This month, we’re partnering with Hallmark to bring you the stories of four inspirational women and the mothers who helped shape them into the incredible people they are now. Today, we’re chatting with Cynthia Andrew, attorney and the style and travel blogger behind Simply Cyn, to hear how her mom’s wisdom inspired her career—and how she celebrates her mom not just on Mother’s Day, but every day.
Q: How do you make your mom feel loved?
A: If there’s one thing I’ve learned—gifts are great, treats are nice, but what really makes us feel close and what I know makes my mom happier than anything is real time with me. And especially now that we’re apart and live in different cities, in different countries, it’s a video call, a handwritten letter, or getting her a plane ticket to come visit me.
Q: How are you and your mom similar? What parts of her do you see in you?
A: We are both super loving and super sensitive. But don’t be fooled, I get my street smarts, discipline and work ethic from her as well.
Q: How has your mom inspired your career?
A: She’s always been non-stop, super ambitious and that has fueled me and made me want to work harder, be better, do better. She also is such a caring and generous person, she has taught me the importance of being generous with whatever you may have- access, experience, wisdom. You may sometimes feel like you have nothing to give (we tend to think of giving as financial), but some of the greatest things I’ve received and given have been non-monetary. And all of that is from her.
Q: What's your go-to mom word of wisdom?
A: You can do this! and Pray about it. They go hand in hand.
Q: What's the latest "I have to call my mom" moment you've had?
A: Stress about a major financial decision—she always gives the best, completely non-judgmental advice.
Q: What is your most memorable card to or from your mother?
A: The handmade ones I made growing up—I was so much more original and crafty back then. Thank Goodness for Hallmark to help me these days—I’ve been able to find the right words to express just how I feel about my mom.
Q: What are you most grateful to have inherited from your mother?
A: Her spirit. I didn’t realize I had it, but my husband who has gotten to know my mom a lot more over the course of our marriage, pointed it out the other day. He was like—you are your mother’s child—and that’s the best compliment ever.
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