Happy Mother's Day

Mother's Day, for me, is a day of mixed emotion. I used to not enjoy Mother's Day -- for about 16 years of my life, in fact. The reason for that is that my mom passed away when I was just 13 years old. In retrospect, she could have died when she was first diagnosed with cancer, when I was only 2 years old. She was a fighter and a strong lady. She knew that she had 5 kids that needed her. She trusted God to heal her and allow her a few more years on this earth to leave a legacy for her kids. He answered that prayer and allowed her to have 11 years more than the 6 months doctors originally diagnosed. She wasn't perfect, by any means. My memories of her have faded so much over the past 22 years, yet she left an imprint on my life that has helped to make me into the mother I am today.

Nearly six years ago, we welcomed sweet Caroline into our lives. She made me a mother and changed my life. I look back to where I was six years ago and am amazed to see all the changes in my life. God has worked wonders and daily sustains me. I've learned to trust him in all circumstances -- big and small. It's not always easy, but I'm learning daily. Who knew that after having Caroline, we'd have another sweet baby to follow just 18 months later! Jonathan is a kind and compassionate little boy. And then through the trials of of miscarriage, God drew me close to him. Our friends and family showed the love of Christ to us through their support. Sweet Elizabeth joined our family just over 2 years ago. We had no idea the joy and laughter she'd provide. A day with Elizabeth is a day of fun! Then, again, just another short year and a half before Matthew came along.

Wow! Four super sweet kiddos in such a short period, but what awesome blessings they are! Each day presents so many aspects of motherhood: snuggling, feeding, cleaning, kissing boo-boos, playing, reading, laughing, feeding, cleaning, teaching, training and so much more! It's been so great to be able to stay home with these 4 kids to watch them grow and blossom right before my eyes. Thank you Caroline, Jonathan, Elizabeth and Matthew for the honor of being your Mama. I love you all so so much and pray this next year will be a year of growth in all aspects of our lives!