A Mother's Work Is Never Done, A Note on Mother's Day Part II

In Part I of our Mother's Day 2025 rumination, I chatted a bit about the origin of Mother's Day and the spirit of women's solidarity that led to the tradition of celebrating motherhood and, more specifically, the work of women supporting other women who work inside and outside of the home. Rooted in compassion and empathy, Ann Jarvis envisioned a world where women used their talents and experience for the benefit of each other - and each other's families.

In addition to domestic work, women have long been the caretakers of tradition. One of the places where we commonly see this is in folk art and community service. 

So instead of speaking directly to motherhood, I want to speak to the community around us - specifically the communities in which we've opened our store: Manchaug (Massachusetts) and Chepachet (Rhode Island).

When we opened in Manchaug we met 2 women who shared their friendship, wisdom, and talents with us: Deb Dunleavy (owner of Manchaug Mills) and Julie Vinson (owner of Dragonflies & Amber). 

In Chepachet, I've been lucky enough to work with more generous and witty women who run their own businesses and, quite literally, keep this village a lively place: Trish Hampton at Trish Hampton Pet Boutique, Vian Musumeci at Whiskey Pearl, Kim Belleavoine at the Hen House, and Karyn Rae Szaro at Holidaze. 

These women do the heavy-lifting required to keep Chepachet a destination for tourists and locals alike. Each of them came to our store and welcomed us within the first week of our opening. 

To each of these women, and the women we've met through them, I wish you a very happy Mother's Day and celebrate the work you do in your home, in your studio, and in your community.