to my Mama, my sister, my Gram, my Grandma, my MIL and all of my Aunties! Happy Mother's Day to all of my amazing friends who are such amazing Moms!
Being a Mom has shaped me more than anything else in my lifetime. I am so very, very blessed to have had the experiences and time spent with my kiddos. It hasn't always been easy to balance life and all that it brings, but I think both of my kids know that I would pretty much drop anything to come to their aid.
Dylan is my first love. He would be so embarassed to hear that direct quote, but it's true. Before I had him, I thought I knew what love really was. But, until I held that little guy, I really had no clue. He was the instant turning point to my life. I was 25 and I could no longer be selfish. I could no longer put myself first. (Isn't that the true call of parenthood? Doing what is best for someone other than yourself?)
So it is especially neat that I first found out that I was expecting Dylan 13 years ago, today. For the sake of history, I do have to recall that it was the one Mother's Day that I forgot to wish my Mom a happy Mother's Day. I was distracted, but still . . . sorry, Mom!
Along my journey as a Mom, there are so many influences that I am grateful to. Some from my childhood (my Mom, Cindy C., Janet, Liane, my Aunt Linda, my Aunt Karen and so many more); others that met me in my early journey as a Mom, my Ukiah girls (Carmen, Kristi, Charla, Regina and my other Young Moms bible study friends); more still that joined me along the way of coming home to Chico with just my little guy (Linda B. and Kathy especially); those that came with John . . . the ultimate package deal (Crissy, Robyn, Traci and Lynn); so many from our amazing church family (Christi, Susan and so many more); my go-to Mom when I need advice on the stages that we hit as parents (the amazing Lynn Mount); and my girlfriends . . . the ones who tell me the truth, even if it's ugly (Robyn, Ree, Shannon, Janell, Stacy, Marci, just to mention a few).
And I couldn't have imagined how soothing and supportive that the Internet can be . . . wow, I love, love, love and appreciate the 24-7 ability to find resources, support, an inspiring word, a place to vent . . . God bless the web of Moms, nurses, experts and yes, even the assholes that spend time on the Web, giving advice and knowledge and experience. It's the ultimate Mom's group!
And to those girls/women who come in and love my kiddos when i can't be here? My Lauren, Gillian and Shannon especially? You will never know the joy and support and love that you have brought to my life! I love you girls for loving my kids!
Happy Mother's Day! Thank you, John for planning ahead and giving me such sweet gifts today, even though you couldn't be here. And thank you, Dylan for getting up with your sister so I could sleep in. You boys rock!
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