Remember That

I feel like I should be the one celebrating. Mother's Day to me, is about my kids. Without them, I would simply be wife, sister, daughter but not mother. A precious title not given to everyone who wants it. Remember that. How precious it is to be allowed to carry and nurture your own baby in your womb.

Tomorrow I plan to celebrate each one of my kids who have made me what I am, mommy. I cherish the title and love my job. How many people get to say their job is to stay at home all day, in their pajama's if they want, with their favorite people? 

Often you will hear people say it's a thankless job, but honestly, my baby stretching her fat, dimpled arms to me is all the thanks I need. Or my son telling me over and over throughout the day how much he loves me is all the thanks I need. Or a tiny daughter looking up at me with awe in her eyes as I put on a pretty dress and saying, "You a princess, mommy?" That's all the thanks I need. 

Sure, it's hard when you don't get a full nights rest for nights on end. Or when three people all want something from you at the moment a very hungry you is about to put that first bite in your mouth. Or when you step on a lego in the dark of the night. Or when they don't overwhelm you with gratitude when you do something for them that you think they will love. But your arms aren't empty. Remember that. You don't sleep soundly through the night every night because there is no baby and never will be one to keep you up at night. Remember that. 

Some say it's a hard job. It's true, it is. Raising children of character, teaching them to obey, following through on consequences when it's so very hard to do. Keeping them busy and active, teaching them to admire and care for creation, showing them how to love unconditionally, setting the spiritual tone for a lifetime of following Christ. It is hard. But harder, would be burying a child. Or losing a child to the world. Or never having one. Remember that. 

Sippy cups, boppy, diaper bags and bibs. First day of school, first haircut, first trip to the zoo. Riding the lawnmore with dad, helping mom make biscuits, climbing trees, scraping knees, running and laughing and playing. Sneaking into the room at night to look at the beautiful sleeping tiny son and daughter, taking them out for ice ceam just because, sloppy baby kisses and group hugs. The time is short, remember that. The firsts come quickly and the lasts faster still. 

This Mother's Day, I don't need flowers or gifts or cards. Just call me mama. Hug my neck. Spend time with me, and lets celebrate you for making me...me. 

Beautiful photo by Allison E Photography

Beautiful photo by Allison E Photography