A Cup of Nepali Tea: A Mother’s Day Story

Mother’s Day isn’t about expensive gifts — it’s about love, effort, and the little moments that make Mum feel truly seen. From quiet reflections to tiny hands making tea, every gesture counts.

I am a mum of two now. Some days are joyful, some exhausting — but all are filled with love.

When I Became a Mum, I Truly Saw You

Lately, as I raise my children in a foreign country, far from home, I’ve started to see someone more clearly than ever before: my mum.

Growing up, we were four — my mum, my dad, my siblings, and me. My dad worked in a bank and often had to live in different cities. During those times, it was my mum who held everything together.
She did everything: cooking, cleaning, helping with school, comforting us when we cried, managing the house, the bills, and the worries. She carried so much responsibility, yet she rarely showed how tired she was.
I can still picture her sitting by the window in the early morning light, quietly sipping her tea — perhaps the only peaceful moment she had for herself.

Back then, I didn’t really notice it.

But now… I do.

Now, when I stay up all night with a sick child, juggle meals, laundry, school runs, tantrums, and everything in between, I see her. I understand her strength in a way I never could before. Sometimes I wonder, how did she manage it all? And my heart answers softly: with love, just like mothers do every day.

Mum, I just want to say thank you. For every unseen moment. For every sacrifice. For every bedtime story, warm meal, gentle word, and every hug that held more comfort than words ever could. Mummy, timro maya le malai ahile samma samhalecha. (Mum, your love has carried me through all this time.) Your hands may not be here beside me today, but your lessons live in mine. I only hope that I can be even half the mother you were.

Mother’s Day is a beautiful reminder to pause and appreciate the love, care, and dedication mothers give every single day. Celebrating this day matters because it gives families a chance to express gratitude and appreciation. Mother’s Day isn’t about fancy gifts — it’s about love, appreciation, and making Mum feel truly special.

A Nepali Tea Story: Love Made by Tiny Hands

Last year’s Mother’s Day, my little chefs wanted to make something warm and special for me. They decided to make a simple cup of Nepali tea.

Ingredients (for 2 cups):

1 cup water
1 cup milk
2 teaspoons black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
1–2 teaspoons sugar
A small piece of ginger (optional)
A pinch of crushed black pepper (optional)

Preparation steps:

First, they washed their hands carefully — “Clean hands are happy hands!”

Then they gathered all the ingredients: milk, water, sugar, and tea leaves. With a little help from Mum, the water and milk were poured into a pot on the stove.

They added the tea leaves and sugar, and even crushed a small piece of ginger for its lovely smell.

With careful stirring and excited smiles, they watched the tea slowly change colour as it boiled.

When the tea looked just right — rich and warm — they proudly called Mum to help pour it through a strainer.

Smiles all around. Because tea made with love always tastes better.

 

With a little help from Dad

Mother’s Day is also a wonderful opportunity for dads to help children show appreciation and love for their mum. Simple, thoughtful gestures can create lasting memories.

Dads can help by:

Planning ahead with the kids about what Mum might enjoy.

Helping children make handmade cards or drawings.

Preparing a small surprise breakfast.

Giving Mum a “day off” from daily chores.

Encouraging kids to write a sweet note or letter.

Creating a memory jar filled with favourite family moments.

Capturing the day with photos or a short video message.

Ending the day together with a family movie or relaxing time.

 
Children learn by watching. When they see appreciation and respect being shown, they quietly carry those values into their own lives. These small acts of love matter more than we often realise. This Mother’s Day, celebrate the small moments. Take a moment to reflect on the lessons your own mother taught you. Cherish the little rituals that bring families together. Maybe it’s sharing a cup of tea, listening to a story, or simply spending time together. Because love, care, and connection — passed from generation to generation — are the greatest gifts of all.