momma mia

I love Mother's Day.  Honestly, I do.

Not because I have crazy expectations of gifts, breakfast in bed and a "day off" from

my mothering responsibilities.

I love it because my kids have excitement they share with me and I receive a little

EXTRA love, hugs, snuggles, and smiles.

I love to read other "mommy blogs" and there are several I check often because

they are inspiration, uplifting and share great ideas and insight.

A few weeks ago I was reading a blog post about Mother's Day and what this mom shared about her own 

mom growing up.

Instead of waiting to be honored doted on by your family on Mother's Day,

take a minute as a Mother and honor those that made YOU a mother.

Your children and your spouse.

So...that is what I did this morning. 

I woke up early and made a yummy breakfast

for my kids and for my husband.  I took joy in the surprise and enjoyed sharing with them WHY I was making them breakfast on Mother's Day. 

I wouldn't be a mother without them, so it seemed appropriate to show my gratitude to them.  It really started our day off special and they could feel my love for them.

Thankfully, they were mostly cooperative for pre-church pictures...

There are some days when I wonder if we will all survive the day and there are those days when motherhood is amazing and just as I had imagined it.  The good days far out weigh the hard days but mothering is a hard job, one that isn't glamorous, pays the big bucks and often leaves you completely exhausted.

*a funny and unsuccessful picture taken ourselves*

Morley and Brayden...sorry you were cropped out.

BUT...

I love my kids more than anything and I am so thankful to a wonderful husband who

honors me and respects me.  He makes pretty cute kids too.

I was able to enjoy some time outside in the glorious sun...and took a nap in my lounge chair resulting in a little sunburn.  Then I took another nap on the couch while Matt and Ella made special cards.

I have five new flowers to plant tomorrow and cards to put in my keepsake box.

A few new books to read, new hanging baskets full of colorful flowers and a pretty new necklace made my day complete.  I will admit, I love the acts of service and love more than gifts that I open. 

Today was a great day.

Take some time to read THIS post and THIS post and THIS one about motherhood. 

I think they ring true for most moms and about expectations.  You'll laugh, smile and something might just touch your heart and make this day more joyful for you. 

I am blessed with a wonderful mother and so thankful for the amazing example she was to me growing up and how much I rely on her now.  I am thankful to Matt's mother for raising a man that is a wonderful father and husband.  There are so many friends that are wonderful influences on me and help me to be a better mom, wife, daughter and friend.  I am thankful to all those women in my life.  I honor YOU today!

Happy Mother's Day!