Mother's Day

Tomorrow is Mother's Day, and I feel so blessed to be able to celebrate that day! Not because it's another day for presents or getting out of chores (although that's nice too), but because I have a beautiful 4 year old that makes every day a good day. He's amazing, brilliant, stubborn and covered in dirt most of the time. Everything a boy should be. I'm so thankful that he's happy, smart and healthy! Not that I would love him less if he wasn't, but those are things every mother wishes for their child.

I'm also very blessed to have an amazing mother. She's been my biggest fan my entire life, and there's something very special about having a mother who always supports you and believes in you. Not every child can say that. Growing up, money was tight, and I understood that. I know that she often did without so that I could do things with my friends, have new clothes or other material things that are important to teenagers. Being grown up and a mother now, I can truly appreciate that and all that her (and my Dad) have always done for me. I'm happy to say that my Mom is one of my best friends, and I love spending time with her at concerts or just hanging out and talking.

There are other mothers who have made a huge difference in my life, too.

My sisters for treating me like I was one of their own and giving me the best childhood a kid could ask for! I still cherish the memories of hanging out at the beach or pretending that my and my niece were sisters.

All of the single mothers that I know- whether it's full time or part time, I look up to you for doing it on your own. I know it can't be easy, and I have so much respect for you.

To Robin- It warms my heart every time I think about you and Peyton. To want something, SOMEONE so bad... and then not know if she would be able to stay... what a leap of faith and a testament of TRUE love. Even though I was there when it all happened, your story ALWAYS moves me to tears.

To Stacey- What an amazing, motivating, inspiring mother. As a parent and a person, I look up to you in every way Even in your saddest times of losing Laiken, you were strong. Your strength came from the great love that you have for Laiken. Know that you raised a beautiful little girl, and the number of people that have been moved by her and continue to be moved by her is simply AMAZING!

To Rebecca- I know you're not my mother-in-law, but I feel like you are. If I could adopt you, I would in a heartbeat! You've always been there to listen to my complaining (and I've been known to talk for hours at a time), hug me when I needed it and given me advice that only a mother could give! You have such a kind heart and such great love as a mother! (Not to just your boys, but to every "child" that enters your home). I truly enjoy our heart to heart talks and your frienship means the world to me!

To all the Moms out there, I wish you a beautiful Mother's Day. Thank you for all that you do!