From the editor
There are moments in life when you suddenly realize the roles around you are beginning to shift. For me, that moment came last weekend during a walk on the Boardwalk with my daughter. As we strolled, she talked about her work in communications — building websites, developing apps and promoting national conferences. Listening to her explain the technical side of her job, I couldn’t help but think about the areas of Shore Local that have challenged me over the years, especially the constantly evolving digital side of publishing.
At one point she laughed and said, “It’s really easy. I’ll show you when we get back to the house.” Later that afternoon, we sat side by side with our laptops open. She moved confidently through settings, shortcuts and programs that would have taken me hours to figure out on my own. I found myself doing exactly what she used to do as a little girl — watching carefully, listening intently and trying to learn something new. It feels like only yesterday I was teaching her how to walk, hold a pencil and tie her shoes. Somewhere along the way, the roles quietly began to change. Now, she is teaching me.
Both of my daughters are adults now and play important roles in our family business. Their ideas, creativity and work ethic are not only appreciated — they are essential. Watching them grow into capable, independent women has been one of the greatest joys of my life. At the same time, it comes with a certain ache that every parent understands. The years move quickly. One day you are packing lunches and driving them to soccer practice, and the next you are sitting across from your children as peers and trusted advisors.
While I am learning to lean more on my daughters, I also find myself leaning further in toward my mother. At 86, widowed and still living independently, my mom continues to amaze me with her strength and determination. But aging changes things. Since she no longer drives, much of her daily life now requires coordination and planning. Doctor’s appointments, errands, hair appointments, vacations and even routine outings have gradually become part of my schedule too. Recently, while talking with our veterinarian, I jokingly said we were “co-parenting” my mother’s little white dog — her beloved companion. We laughed, but underneath the humor was a truth many people in my generation understand all too well.
This stage of life can feel like living in the middle of two worlds. On one side are children building lives, careers and futures of their own. On the other are aging parents who once cared for us and now, in many ways, rely on us. It is a season filled with responsibility, scheduling and constant adjustment. Some days, it can feel emotionally and physically exhausting.
But it is also a season filled with perspective.
I know how fortunate I am to still have my mother here — to hear her voice on the phone, to share meals and conversations and even the ordinary moments that once felt routine. I know how lucky I am to have daughters who are kind, capable and present in my life.
Many readers are likely navigating this same chapter. Caring for aging parents while staying connected to adult children is not always easy, but it is one of life’s most meaningful roles. It reminds us to slow down, pay attention and appreciate the people who matter most.
As Mother’s Day approaches, I find myself especially grateful for the generations of women in my life — the mother who raised me and the daughters who continue to teach me. Thank you for picking up Shore Local each week and allowing us to be part of your lives. Wishing all mothers, grandmothers and mothers to be a very happy Mother’s Day!
Peace & Love, Cindy
