Singapore Supermums We Love: A Mother's Day 2015 Tribute

"Mother’s love is bliss, is peace, it need not be acquired, it need not be deserved. If it is there, it is like a blessing; if it is not there it is as if all the beauty had gone out of life." — Erich Fromm

This Mother's Day, we'd like to pay tribute to 22 incredible Singaporean supermums who encapsulate all the awesome qualities that you, our dear readers, have in yourselves, too.

These mums are hard-working, strong, brave and perservering. They never give up, never say die and would fight tooth and nail to protect their little ones. Most of all, they love their children with a pureness, joy and fierceness that can only be found in a mother's heart... just like how you love your own children.

So read their stories, find the similarities with your own stories and be inspired by their Mother's Day messages to you. We hope you know that you all are loved and appreciated very much!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you from all of us at theAsianparent!

Dimple Aswani

A director at Royal Group Holdings, 34-year-old Dimple has a five-year-old son and a two-month-old daughter. Motherhood, she says, has made her learn to appreciate life a lot more.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Just seeing my babies and watching them grow, from the moment they started to smile and laugh to when they say their first words… it’s all simply heart-melting and oh-so-fulfilling!"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "It has to be time management. When I’m at work, I miss my kids terribly and want to be at home with them. It’s tough juggling the demands of being a wife and mother and also keeping time for myself."

How do you create "me-time"? "Every night, I steal an hour just for myself after the kids go to sleep. I just watch TV or read a book during this time."

Dimple’s Mother’s Day message: "Mothers have the toughest and the best job! I love my mum. My message to all kids is treat every day like Mother's Day. And, all mothers, do take some time out, even if it's just ten minutes. We come out feeling better and recharged!"

Cherie Lim

This 35-year-old mum of two boys (aged four and two) works full-time and also enjoys blogging at CherieLadie.com about her motherhood moments. She likes to see herself as Mrs Fix-it-all for her family, mending toys, wiping tears, and dishing out hugs and kisses when needed.

Cherie believes motherhood has made her re-think a lot of her priorities and has helped her give importance to maintaining a work-life balance.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "It’s fulfilling because I get to watch my kids grow up day by day. The little things they do, like plucking a wild flower off the grass for me, make my heart pound and swell with pride, all the time!"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "It is so easy to spoil a child, but a lot harder to teach them all the correct things and build their character. I honestly haven't overcome that, and I am constantly learning through reading, observing others and getting feedback on how to do it better."

How do you create "me-time"?: "I blog! My blog is like a virtual alcove that I retreat into when I need time alone. I also like going on dinner dates with my girlfriends and jetting off on a trip without the kids for a few days at least once a year, just to recharge and reflect."

Cherie’s Mother’s Day message: "Make time to think and indulge in yourself whenever you can. Motherhood is a lifelong journey and a little rest goes a long, long way! Happy Mother's Day to all!"

Neetu Mirchandani

38-year-old Neetu is mummy to two boys – six-year-old Zayden and three-year-old Xavion. This "super mum" personified is the regional VP of Strategy and Insights for Tickled Media, and is also the most followed Google+ personality in Singapore and the sixth most influential Google+ female personality in Asia, thanks to her SuperMommy blog.

She says that motherhood has taught her what unconditional love is and that right now, her kids are the centre of her universe.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Nothing beats the feeling of knowing that you’ve given birth to another life and watching your kids grow each day. In my job as ‘mum’, the hours are crazy, I get no days off and I get paid in hugs and kisses, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "One of the most challenging things I had to learn was patience. But now, I am able to just take a step back and just let things go when things are a bit crazy! So what if there is food on the floor, and you didn't get the chance to shower... life will go on!

How do you create "me-time"? "Me-time? What's that? Between the kids, my husband, home, work and blog, I get very little me-time. But every now and again I do sneak a few outings on my own. But after a few hours I end up missing my kids!"

Neetu’s Mother’s Day message: "This quote says it all: ‘It takes someone really brave to be a mother, someone strong to raise a child and someone special to love someone more than herself.’ Happy Mother’s Day to all mums everywhere!"

Tamy Ambarchi

A mother of three (aged eight, six, four), 40-year-old Tamy is a distributor of SMT Distributors, a company that sources baby and kid products outside Asia.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Watching my kids developing strong friendships with one another and playing together warms my heart.

The hardest thing about being a mum: I found it hard to suddenly stop working when the kids came along and having my life revolve around them for about five years. I’m now happy that I’ve managed to find the right job for myself, without compromising on the quality time with my children.

How do you create "me-time"? "My ‘me-time’ is at 6.15am when I go to Ozfit bootcamps at Fort Canning thrice a week. I get back in time to get my kids ready for school."

Tamy’s Mother’s Day message: "Being a mum is an amazing thing. There is no doubt that there are days that are trying and challenging, but as the children grow and you see them bond together, there can be nothing more fulfilling. I wish all the mothers in Singapore a very happy Mother’s Day and may there be health and happiness for all their children."

Aivonne Chong

Aivonne is a 37-year-old mum of three children, of whom two have passed on. Having been through the unforgiving pain of losing two children, Aivonne explains that she now finds solace and the will to move on in her three-year-old son’s pure innocence and love.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Being able to witness my son Maddox’s life journey with him is the best thing ever. And when he says that mommy is his best friend, I know I have done something right."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "Dealing with moments when the worst of me comes out in front of my son is hard to tackle, like how I deal with anger, stress, sadness, people, and the words that I utter on bad days. But I’m working on changing the way I deal with these unwelcoming moments."

How do you create "me-time"? "Thanks to my husband and helper, I’m fortunate to get the ‘me-time’ that some other mums may not get. I learn to cherish the short-lived me-time moments, be it 15 minutes, 30 minutes or a few hours. To be honest though, I start missing my son after about three hours of time on my own!"

Aivonne’s Mother’s Day message: "Don’t lose yourself. There are times when you get derailed and, if possible, do what you need to do to get back on track. Your child enhances the person you are. Believe it or not, they bring out the best in you."

Rachel Chung

This 39-year-old mum has two gorgeous girls, aged 17 and 12. As the mum of a teen and a tween, Rachel claims she’s quite well skilled in conflict resolution and has also learned the fine art of picking her battles!

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Watching my kids grow up to be wonderful people is the best feeling ever. My kids never cease to amaze me, make me laugh and move me with the things they do for others."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "The hardest thing was when I got divorced and felt a lot of guilt for not keeping the family together for the kids. But, my kids are very loving and supportive and that helped a lot."

How do you create "me-time"? "I'm an introvert and during times when I feel overwhelmed by people, I ask my girls for some time alone. They always understand and oblige. It also helps that they are very independent. I also do mum and daughter activities with my girls, like facials and massages so we can spend time together and pamper ourselves at the same time."

Rachel’s Mother’s Day message: "Whether you are a stay-at-home or working mum, don't let anyone shame or pressure you for the choice you made. Empower yourself and believe in yourself to do the best for your children."

Cheah Yee Hooi

Yee Hooi is a 44-year-old Director of Internal Audit and a mother to four children (ages 13, 10, 8 and 1). She is thankful to her pro-family company, NTUC Fairprice, for offering several flexi-work options.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Getting to see my children grow up as healthy, happy and responsible people is amazingly fulfilling."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "No two children are the same, and every child goes through different experiences as they grow up. It’s challenging to just be there for every child. But I do try to find a balance between watching over them and giving them their personal space."

How do you create "me-time"? "With careful planning of my schedule, I include the things I like to do, such as playing piano, getting connected with friends, attending aerobic classes and swimming."

Yee Hooi’s Mother’s Day message: "Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers for their unconditional love and care. You are the greatest!"

Jacqueline Chow

36-year-old FLY Entertainment artiste Jacqueline wears many hats. She is an actress, host, presenter, teacher, moderator and a corporate facilitator. But perhaps the biggest and most important role of them all is being mum to her two adorable children, Elizabeth (two years) and Charles (nine months).

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "The moments when I’m with my kids, hearing them laugh, giggle or getting up to something silly... and suddenly it hits me, ‘Jacq, how did you get so lucky?’"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "It’s the fear that I'm not a good enough mum. Fear that I’m not educating them well, fear that I've over mothering them, fear when they are sick, the list goes on. No, I’ve yet to overcome it, and I doubt I will ever. That's parenthood isn't it?"

How do you create "me-time": "The elusive ‘me-time’! I enjoy ‘me-time’ when I’m expressing milk for Charlie. But my ultimate ‘me-time’ is when I’m travelling for work. I remember my first work trip. I was so free at night, lying in the hotel room, watching movies and thinking, ‘wait, this cannot be right, there is nothing to do but actually laze?’"

Jacqueline’s Mother’s Day message: "Always enjoy the moments, big and small. Happy Mother’s Day!"

Evelyn Quek

34-year-old Evelyn, who oversees internal and external communications at Bayer, South East Asia Pte Ltd, is a proud mother of an adorable three-year-old. What she loves most about her little girl is how she "demands" so much of love from everyone at home.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Topping my fulfillment list as a mum has to be seeing someone so tiny learn new languages, life skills and experience new senses every single day. Also, the way Alyssa has taught me how to love unconditionally brings warmth to my heart."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "There are so many things I want to do besides my mothering role, from work to gym to nights out. I often struggle with the guilt of choosing other activities over my daughter.

How do you create "me-time": "I have a few tricks up my sleeve to make me feel less guilty about having time to myself. For example, I’ll use my lunch time to sometimes catch up with my friends and I exercise twice a week right after work, so that I can make it home before my daughter falls asleep. I also rely on online shopping for necessities like my daughter’s pyjamas and diapers or my dog’s food supplies."

Evelyn’s Mother’s Day message: "Every mummy is a heroine. Happy Mother’s Day!"

Heng Gek Siang

Mother to two girls aged five and six, 37-year-old Gek Siang is a drafter at Coflexip Singapore Pte Ltd. She is also a volunteer instructor at PA Water-Venture, Changi.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "To watch my kids growing up day by day, from cute newborns to the lovely children they are today makes me unbelievably happy."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "The challenge for me as a full-time working mum has to be balancing my job and family. I am fortunate that I have a very supportive husband to help look after our girls and also do his share of household chores."

How do you create "me-time"? "Since I’m passionate about kayaking, being able to volunteer at PA Water-Venture during the weekends is where I get most of my ‘me-time’. I’m lucky to have a supportive husband and understanding children who tell me to enjoy myself when I take time out like this."

Gek Siang’s Mother’s Day message: "Being a woman is not easy, and being a mother is even more challenging. Nevertheless, that makes us even more wonderful people! Kayaking at PA Water-Venture has made me more confident and adventurous, as I journeyed from a beginner to where I am as an instructor today. If you have the time, do try this, too. Happy Mother’s Day!"

Raelene Tan

Ms Tan's beautiful love story was first highlighted by the National Library Board’s Singapore Memory Project recently. This 75-year-old mum of two and grandmother of four is a semi-retired etiquette consultant and food and travel writer.

She believes that parenthood is the ideal opportunity for a husband and wife to come together even closer as they evolve as a team in raising their children.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Watching one’s children grow, develop and blossom under the care of parents is very fulfilling. Being able to nurture and guide one’s children is a privilege."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "Perhaps the hardest thing for me as a mother is learning to let go. However, when a mother knows she has done her best, it is time to trust the child to venture forth safely and confidently."

How do you create "me-time"? "‘Me-time’ is created when there are moments to spare in between parental responsibilities and making time to be at peace with one’s inner self. Everyone has the same amount of time in a day, and it is how we choose to manage some of that time that allows us to have ‘me-time’"

Ms Tan's Mother’s Day message: "Even though at times frustration might set in with the busyness of motherhood, savour every moment of your children’s uniqueness as childhood flies by very quickly. To raise one’s own child is a very special gift to be treasured to its fullest."

Klessis Lee

37-year-old Klessis is an administrator, and has her own blog, The J Babies. She is mother to two girls, aged nine and six. Klessis says that her girls have taught her not to take things too seriously in life.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Being able to impart life skills to my kids and show them how to have fun is so satisfying to me as a mum."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "I struggle to keep my cool at times, and have to keep reminding myself to have realistic expectations of my children."

How do you create "me-time"? "On my days off, I take the chance to do the things I enjoy such as cafe-hopping and shopping. Occasionally, I also go for a couples getaway with my husband."

Klessis’ Mother’s Day message: "You are the best mum there can ever be for your children. Keep going!"

Lynda Adraste-Cassim

Mum to a six-year-old boy and a three-year-old girl, 36-year-old Lynda has her own company, French Lingerie Shop. Interestingly, she launched the website almost at the same time as when she delivered her first child!

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "It’s so rewarding to see how my kids have developed beautiful personalities. It always brings a smile to my face when I see my kids smiling and being playful, creative and enthusiastic about new activities."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "It tears my heart to see my children in pain. I still can’t find a way to control my feelings when I see them in pain."

How do you create "me-time"? "I plan every week well ahead of time, and always try to include time to meet up with friends and do some workouts. I need this time to recharge, ‘empty’ my brain and reset my mood."

Lynda’s Mother’s Day message: "Don’t forget that the most important thing is to show your unconditional love to your little ones."

Madeline Heng

32-year-old Madeline is a research psychologist and blogs at Mad Psych Mum. Madeline tries to enjoy and treasure the moments she shares with her two children, aged four and one. May those times be good or bad, she knows those moments will be missed.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "I have found the meaning of unconditional love through my children, and I have also learnt to be an expert multi-tasker!"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "One of the hardest things is balancing time with family, work and personal demands. I usually try to schedule everything in my calendar so that they are all portioned out as evenly as possible."

How do you create "me-time"? "Because I schedule my time so carefully, I’m able to get my regular fix of facials, manicures, dinners with friends, dental appointments and even Pilates classes. I believe that if I take care of myself, I can take better care of my kids."

Madeline’s Mother’s Day message: "Trust your instincts, believe in yourself, you can do it! Happy Mother’s Day!"

Mabel Lee

Mabel is a 27-year-old mother to two children (four and two years old), has her own blog Amazingly Still and is a part-time Marketing and Operations Executive for La Canine Coupes, an online store for pets.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "I find it hard to pick just one or two things as there are so many things that I love about motherhood! From the unconditional love my kids give me despite the disciplining, the things they say which are usually funny and sometimes thought-provoking, to their pure innocence, I think my little ones teach adults around them to be better people."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "I need to stop comparing myself to other mums. It used to be worse. I used to put pressure on myself to be better or cooler or earn more money to be the best mum for my children. I am wiser now and know that my children think I am the best mum anyway!"

How do you create "me-time"? "I’m so thankful to my husband who encourages me to get time-off from the children. With his support at home, I meet up with my siblings and friends - all without any guilt!"

Mabel’s Mother’s Day message: "Your children and husband may seem like the only ones who matter to you, but don't neglect yourself. Just remember, a sane woman makes a happy wife and mother."

Cindy Gan

This 31-year-old mum with a passion for writing enjoys nothing more than chronicling her motherhood adventures with her one and a half-year-old daughter on her blog, The HOOting Post. She is also the Associate Editor of theAsianparent Singapore.

Cindy explains that motherhood has made her really think about what she wants from life and how she can continue growing as an individual.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Because I get to cuddle and kiss my precious little one, see her laugh and discover her cheeky antics every day!

The hardest thing about being a mum: "Being a working mum is tough because it comes with "mummy guilt" that emerges when I have to be away from my little one. But at the same time, being apart makes the heart grow fonder, so it’s not all bad!"

How do you create "me-time"? "Meals with friends, family time, sharing my mummy experiences on The Hooting Post and finding time to spend with my better half are all ways in which I create ‘me-time’ for myself."

Cindy’s Mother’s Day message: "Enjoy this special day with your little ones, for they are the ones who have come in to this world so you get to have a day coined for you too! Happy Mother’s Day!"

Karen Ong

Karen is a 21-year-old mum of one who juggles full-time studies with two part-time jobs, one of them as a cleaner with Helpling. Motherhood has helped boost this young mum’s self-esteem and determination to do well in life for her family’s sake. It has also taught her the value of family support.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "I love enjoying moments of the exquisite mother-daughter bond I share with my daughter, such as when she looks me in the eye and gives me her special love-filled smile!"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "Because I’m still very young and still studying, I find my lack of experience and time challenging. But because I have such a strong family support network, I’m able to learn how to be a confident and loving mum."

How do you create "me-time"? "I like going shopping once a month or going to the library by myself for an hour or two."

Karen’s Mother’s Day message: "Motherhood is a tough journey but it is definitely a rewarding and fulfilling one especially when you get to see your child reach their milestones. So enjoy every moment of it!"

Mythili Pandi

Mythili is mum to three kids aged four years, three years, and four months. This 33-year-old doctor with an interest in Occupational and Family Medicine also finds the time to volunteer with the Breastfeeding Mothers' Support Group (BMSG).

When Mythili first started working, she had dreams of becoming a prominent obstetrician in Singapore and the region. But when her first child was born, she simply couldn’t tear herself away from him and is now happy with being a part-time doctor and a full-time mother.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Watching my kids grow from tiny little babies to toddlers and pre-schoolers fills my heart with joy and love!"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "As a working, studying, volunteering mum, ensuring that each child has enough "loving-mama" time each day is a challenge. But, I ensure that I make the time for each of them by putting the ‘less essential’ work aside."

How do you create "me-time"? "I take a few hours off mothering duties twice a week for yoga and exercise, which helps me shed my stresses and boost my happiness levels."

Mythili’s Mother’s Day message: "Mothering is tiring, emotional, and time-consuming. But it is the most exciting journey of our lives - filled with excretions from all orifices, the sweetest kisses, the cuddliest hugs and the most heartwarming I love you’s ever heard. It is also crucial to respect yourself and your partner in this journey as the little ones truly learn by example - so laugh, love and life live as you'd like them to."

Nadia Lambrechts

Nadia’s heart and soul is her four-month-old girl Surina. This 36-year-old mum also runs a baby planning service for expecting parents, called 40 Weeks. Being a mum has taught her how to draw a clear line between work and time with her little one.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "It’s all about the indescribable feeling of love and joy my baby brings me, and being able to watch her grow and learn."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "Having to go through the day with a lot less freedom than I used to have can be hard at times, because I now have this little human being who is totally dependent on me for everything. Setting boundaries and the whole topic of discipline can also be trying."

How do you create "me-time"? "I enjoy working out at least three times a week and catching up with a good friend at least once a week."

Nadia's Mother’s Day message: "All Singaporean mums are awesome! Do what you feel is best for your children, your family and yourself and, most importantly, love yourself!"

Sabine Seillière

This 35-year-old mum of a five month old baby boy runs her own company, Sabine's Baskets, which is a delivery service of fresh fruit and vegetable baskets. She never thought her life would change so much since having her baby. However, if she needs to re-orient her career for the sake of her baby, Sabine knows that she would do it in a heartbeat!

Why is being a mum fulfilling? " I just can’t get over my little boy’s unconditional love, the sparkle in his eyes and the gorgeous smile on his face each time he sees me!"

The hardest thing about being a mum: "I find the sleep-deprived nights a bit tough to manage. But I do try to get a few minutes of snooze whenever possible - which is hardly ever, really!"

How do you create "me-time"? "Exercising is how I make time for myself. I love my ‘time-out’ moments and come back to my little one re-energised."

Sabine’s Mother’s Day message: "To all mums out there, you are amazing! I admire your strength, courage and energy. I now know how much it takes. You all deserve a big, big hug!"

Sonya Madeira

This 42-year-old mum of an eight-year-old girl and her husband’s 16-year-old twin boys runs her own PR company Rice Communications and loves nothing more than cuddling with her little girl at bedtime, singing her to sleep with a lullaby. Sonya explains that motherhood has made her plan for and think about the future, rather than just living for the present.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "The best part about being a mum has to be the sense of powerful and unconditional love that I get from all three of my children."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "The hardest thing about being a working mum is not being there more for my kids. But I am grateful that the other partners of my company are also parents, so they all understand if another has to be away from work for the kids."

How do you create "me-time"? "I enjoy movie nights with my husband and the occasional morning to myself when I can do exactly as I please!"

Sonya’s Mother’s Day message: "Love your children with all your heart because they are the only ones who have felt your heartbeats from within. Happy Mother’s Day!"

Melissa Wong

Mum of three beautiful children (aged 18, 14 and 2), 45-year-old Melissa Wong Virk is Singapore media personality Gurmit Singh’s beloved life-partner. This self-proclaimed dreamer also works as a preschool teacher.

Why is being a mum fulfilling? "Being with my children and watching them develop into their own is an incredible experience. Often, I let the everyday workloads rob me of the pleasure to actually watch and understand my children, but when I do manage to slow down and look at them, I marvel at how they are becoming their own persons."

The hardest thing about being a mum: "Watching my kids struggling with making sense of the world and sometimes choosing a different perspective from mine that I feel could have been more well-informed is tough. But I have to hold my tongue and let them be, to let them make mistakes and learn to pick themselves up. To wait for them to come to me to discuss or find solutions together. They need not be 'clones' of me just because I am their mother. They should be their own."

How do you create "me-time"? "I wake up in the morning before everyone else and this quiet time is my regular ‘me-time’. But apart from this, I love getting a facial, manicure or pedicure while Gurmit is with the kids. I also enjoy date-nights with my husband or the occasional girls’ night out with my friends."

Melissa’s Mother’s Day message: "It doesn’t matter if you work full-time, part-time, work from home, or are a stay-at-home mum. You are still a full-time mum. No matter how tiring it gets some days, no matter how insignificant you sometimes feel, your role as mum is awesome. Do the best you can and enjoy every moment of it!"