Mother’s Day Feature
There’s something timeless and powerful about a mother’s love — quiet moments, warm hugs, endless support and tireless care. On Mother’s Day, we take time to honour the women who help shape our lives in countless ways, offering their strength, wisdom and compassion day after day. Whether it’s through guiding young hearts, cheering from the sidelines or simply being present, mothers make the world a better place — one loving moment at a time.
For Randi Findlay, the best part about being a mom is watching her kids learn and grow.
The mother of two is always on the go with her family from Grosse Isle.
“Being a mom is feeling this love for them that is unlike anything else you’ve felt before,” she said.
Findlay has a five-year-old daughter, Ryenn, and a four-year-old son, Will, who keep her on her toes. They enjoy exploring together and sharing their discoveries — always on the lookout for a new adventure.
She said motherhood can be challenging at times, but with the profound impact it has had on her life, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Motherhood — and parenthood, respectfully — has definitely shifted our priorities. While I still try very hard to take care of myself so I can be the best mom and person I can be, the focus is on their well-being and providing a safe, happy and nurturing childhood.”
She added that while she’s far from perfect, she learns and grows each day, appreciating the simple pleasures that motherhood brings.
Findlay said becoming a mom has also helped her form new connections with other mothers and deepened her appreciation for the childhood her own parents gave her.
This Mother’s Day, she spent time with her children and husband, Brock.
“I was spoiled with the cutest handmade cards and crafts,” she said, offering a special shout-out to teachers and daycare providers.
Her celebrations started Saturday with a barbecued steak and shrimp dinner prepared by her husband and two little sous-chefs, followed by a movie night watching Finding Nemo with her three favourite people. On Sunday, they enjoyed brunch and watched the Jets game.
“It was low-key, it was perfect,” she said.
Findlay said she is grateful for every opportunity she has to spend with her family. She has always loved being around others — especially children.
That passion is reflected in her career as a kindergarten teacher at École R.W. Bobby Bend in Stonewall, and in her many community roles, including vice-president of the Grosse Isle Community Club, parent advisory council member and baseball coach.
“I see the types of people that make our community a great place to be — a place I love to live in and want to raise our family in,” Findlay said. “When you have those people in your life, you are around them and you learn from them.”
As a teacher, she said she appreciates the joy, laughter and honesty her students bring, and she holds many classroom memories close to her heart.
One of her fondest memories was learning that a classroom volunteer had been inspired to pursue education and become a kindergarten teacher herself.
“I was so touched that she had such a positive experience in our classroom and was able to experience that connection and joy with the kids.”
Findlay thanked the many people who have made an impact on her life — from her youngest students to her oldest friends.
“They have certainly helped shape the person I am and the person I hope I can be for someone else,” she said.