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My mom was an exceptional woman.

She was charismatic, strong, funny, loving and the most organized person I've ever met.

She's been gone over 9 years now, tragically passing away from pancreatic cancer at the young age of 56, about 8 weeks after I opened Embody Pilates studio.

I always think about her, but being that Mother's Day is this weekend, I thought I'd share 3 lessons (of many) I learned from her.

1) Be Multidimensional.

My mom didn't really fit into any particular stereotype. For example, she could work tirelessly outside doing yardwork until she was covered in dirt and then an hour later, be formally dressed in diamonds and heels to attend an event.

She was a hockey fanatic (boy, she would have LOVED Sunday's Oilers game) and also loved live theatre. As much as she loved planning and organizing, she was also incredibly fun and spontaneous.

I personally can sometimes get caught in a "tunnel vision" either as a business owner or a mom, but I try to keep in mind that being involved in several interests can lead to a rich and fulfilling life.

2) Be okay with breaking the rules sometimes.

Now I'm not at all suggesting that my mother was an outlaw but she did step outside the "normal mom behaviour."

For example, a few times growing up, I remember her letting me stay home from school for no particular reason. She'd make me pancakes and we'd go shopping or to a movie and had a great day together. Now I know several school teachers would think this is completely inappropriate, but honestly, it's one of my fondest memories with my mom.

As I grew up and had my own apartment, I remember literally being in my pjs late one evening and she called me and said to meet her at an Earl's patio just because it was such a beautiful summer night and "Margarita Monday."

So now that I'm a mom myself, I sometimes catch myself trying to be the "ideal mom" instead of just allowing myself to break the routine and create some awesome memories with my son.

3) Be Present

One of the things I miss the most is just talking openly to my mom. She always listened with an open mind and positive attitude.

For example, when I went to her with the dream of opening up a Pilates Studio, she could have likely found 101 reasons why it wasn't a good idea. Instead, she listened, encouraged, and asked how she could help. Everyone needs someone to believe in them and my mom had an ability to make you feel like you were the only person on the planet when she listened to you.

So now when my son grabs my hand and takes me over to play cars with him, I think about how present my mom was and I try my best to give him all my attention. Even though according to him, I must not be playing right ("no mommy no" as he removes the car from my hand) but I know it's just spending the time together that matters most. :)

Mom's are amazing.

Join us this Sunday for a special Complimentary Mother's Day Mat class at 12pm. Sign up now as space is limited.

What's one of your favourite memories of your mom? Let me know in the comments below.