‘In adulthood, I’ve learnt the importance of Mum’s wise words’
Sara Keel, 53, is the founder of Babycup Sippeco weaning cups. She lives in Surrey with her husband Julian, 54, and their daughters Lauren, 17, Plum, 15, and Otty, 13. My mother, Margaret, 76, has imparted plenty of advice to my sister Jessica, 45, and me over the years. And there are two phrases – ‘ever flexible’ and ‘jam tomorrow’ – which I hold dear and think of often.
When I was growing up, my dad, Duncan, now 71, a professional photographer, had a busy schedule that was always changing due to his various assignments. Mum taught us the importance of being versatile and willing to change.
Through that phrase
‘ever flexible’, she’d encourage us not to be set in our ways and be open to others’ opinions and changes of plans.
I’m constantly talking to my own children about this too, as they learn to navigate the twists and turns in life, and make the most of changes and opportunities.
It’s become a life mantra for us.
Even now, there’s never a week goes by without Mum saying
‘ever flexible’ or me thinking it. Although she doesn’t live near us, I can hear her saying it in my mind!
Her other favourite is ‘jam tomorrow’, which has its origins rooted in Alice in Wonderland, with rather a bleak message of unrequited hope, although
Mum uses it in a much more positive way.
She says that when times are tough, you’ve got to dig in, work hard and keep the faith, that there will be brighter days – and jam tomorrow.
I didn’t always follow her advice when I was younger, I think that it takes a while for children and teenagers to realise that actually their parents do know what they’re talking about.
Mum has never been a defeatist – even through tough times, she’s always there with a smile and a hug. She’s forgiving and never judgemental. She’s a wonderful woman, and I’m blessed to have her as my mum.
‘Be willing to change, she’d say’