Mother's Day

I wasn't going to post anything for Mother's Day because a lot of the women who read my blog are waiting moms. Waiting and waiting and waiting. Some of them will not only be "celebrating" this Mother's Day without their child, but also without their own moms. This has made my heart quite sad to think about, but then I remembered another woman who reads my blog. My mom. And, yes, my mom-in-law too. So, this is for them.

Mom, just typing that word choked me up for a second. You have that effect on me -- you always have. There is just something so special about a mother's love. Something bad can happen to me and I'll keep it together, but as soon as I see your face or even hear your voice I will totally break down. It's like I'm still just a big baby who needs her mommy to make it all better. And, I know that your life's mission has always been just that: to make everything in your daughters' lives better. You have taught us so much about God and life and love. You have shown us that relationships aren't perfect, but when we love each other we can look over some imperfections to see the heart. And, you have a good heart! As a small child I remember you being my number one supporter. You were there after school every day with a snack and a smile. You volunteered in the library at my elementary school to be close, and I remember being so excited to see you in the middle of a school day!
When I was sick you held my hair back so I could throw up without making a big mess. (yuck)
And, you were in the kitchen crushing ice so I would stay hydrated. (I still remember how much noise that thing made. ) As I grew older, and more rebellious, you made your opinion known but you also let go and let God. And, I eventually found my way back to you (and Him) and you let me come home -- no questions asked. Remember that day? I'll never forget it.
Now that I am a mom I realize even more all of the sacrafices you made. I understand how deeply your love runs for your children as I am overwhelmed with love for my own sweet child. I get to see you loving, nurturing, and caring for MY daughter now and it makes my heart swell. I also love OUR relationship. You are one of my very best friends. I love to chat with you daily about the silly little every day stuff that goes on, and I still like to discuss the bigger and more important issues with you too. I love the times we spend out together -- shopping (like last night) and out to eat! Yes, we do love to eat out! It is so fun to make you laugh. You have become such a good sport...you really don't have a choice with a kid like me, right? But, you know I think you are the greatest and I'm so glad God gave us to each other.
Happy Mother's Day mom. XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Sheri, when I married your son one of the (many) things I was excited about was marrying into his wonderful family. You all accepted me from day one and I have always felt nothing but love from you. You are a sweet and kind woman whom I really love and admire. You can cook and bake like nobody else I know (except of course your mom and sister!) And it is always fun to see what fun treats you cook up for us when we visit. You have been so thoughtful, kind, and generous to us over the past 6 years. I wish we could see you more often, because we always have the best time and it just gets more and more difficult when we have to part ways. You are so good to Lily, too. You are such a loving and patient grandma! I love to watch you with all of your grandchildren. You are an incredible woman and I am tremendously grateful to be able to call you mom. Happy Mother's Day to you. I can't wait to see you again. XOXOXOXO

So, with that I will just say: I hope everyone has a Happy Mother's Day. Whether you have your mom with you, or just her beautiful memory. Whether you can wrap your arms around your child(ren) or they are still a world away...a mother's love knows no limits.