Motherhood

Really, where does one begin?  I was so selfish and righteous and lazy (!) before I became a mom.  My children bring out the best in me.  If they get my worst, it’s all on me.

They have been my lessons in:

patience.
humility.
laughter.
finding joy in the little stuff.
heartache.
pain.
trust.
faith.
hope.
having wipes in the van at all times.
flexibility.
manners.
and most importantly, love.

Today, I am grateful for my mom Debbie and my mother-in-law, Carla.  I am grateful for my two grandmothers, Dora and Mary, both resting in peace.  My great-grandmothers, whom I had the privilege of knowing as a small girl.  I am grateful for my awesome aunts – all seven of them.  I am grateful for my two really funny and fantastically awesome sister-in-laws, Jennifer and Amanda.  I love the five amazing Godmothers to my children.  And, I am eternally grateful for the example of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

When I reflect on all those awesome, independent, self-assured women I am reminded that life is good.  Really, really good.  I not only pray for them today, but I pray for all mothers.  Today is a celebration of one of God’s greatest vocations:  motherhood.  To all of you, I say a big Texas *thanks* for teaching me how to love my children.  God bless ya.  Each and every one.