Happy Mother's Day

Four years ago on this day, I told my own mother that I was going to become a mom (you can read that story here).  What I didn't realize at the time was how my relationship with my mom would grow once I held my own baby in my arms!

Becoming a mom has made me appreciate and respect my mom in ways I never even knew that I didn't before.  The patience and sacrifice my mom demonstrated on a daily basis I never recognized until I had my own two year old.  Her ability to see the big picture and not get hung up on the little things is a gift.  Being able to stay level headed in emergencies is one of her many great traits.  Consistency is a skill I long to learn from her. Always trying to follow God's will and not caring how it looked to outsiders was something I can only now fully appreciate!

My twenty year old self probably wouldn't imagine the new found admiration I have for my mom.  That's because my childless self hadn't experience the challenges of motherhood; the deep, unabashed love for your child and the fear of messing them up everyday. The worry of failing them miserably and wondering if doing your best is going to be enough.

And then I call my mom.  I can rely on her to give me words of wisdom, a laugh because she has been where I have been (only x5) and a boost of confidence and encouragement with her simple reminder that I'm doing a great job.

I have been so blessed to learn from my mom both passively when I was younger and directly now.  My girls will be blessed because of the values she instilled in me.  I love and respect my mom and am truly grateful that motherhood has taken our relationship to the next level.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!!!