Thanks, Mom!

Hi everyone:

It's Mother's Day and I'm being spoiled by my children and husband today. Flowers and a card already today and supper is being cooked by them. They even give me the day to play in my studio. Who could ask for more? I hope that you're being spoiled by your children today too.


I don't think I really realized what being a mother was all about until I became one myself. Is there any other job more important in the whole world? I don't think so. I never really appreciated the motherhood experience until I had my own children. The joys, the heartaches, the worrying, the pride - it's almost overwhelming and it's definitely all consuming. 


As I guide and watch my own children grow towards adulthood, I think I have a bit of an understanding as to what my own mother went though with me when I was younger. 

Mom, Dad, Sarah & Jamie (my guys!)

My mother didn't work when we were younger, only returning to a part-time office job at the local funeral home when my brother and I were in our early teens. Even then she found time to do the housework (our house was always immaculately clean), laundry, help my brother and I with our homework, and have a full meal on the table every night. She gardened in the summer and made all of my grad, prom and special occasion dresses (although she didn't quilt). There were always cookies and baked treats in our home and our friends were always welcome. I admire the organized fashion in which she ran, and still does run, her household.  


She always exercised, in a time when no one even knew what Jazzercise was, and continues to do so today at the age of 77. I credit her healthy lifestyle and mental toughness for allowing her to conquer breast cancer while I was still in high school.


I respect and admire her marriage, of over 50 years, to my father. It is a testament to their love and commitment to one another. It is what allowed them to build a wonderful life together and raise my brother and I to be the adults that we are today. I can only hope that my own children will feel about me the way that I do about my mom when they reach adulthood. 


So, thanks to my Mom, and all the other mothers out there, for the time, effort and sacrifice that you've put into raising your children. Where would we be without you?