Mother's Day, Part Deux

I'm going to take the easy way out and talk about Mother's Day today too! :) Hey, I've got to take advantage when I can.

My very understanding husband realized that the best medicine for me after the last few hectic weeks would be some time to myself. So we had a leisurely breakfast, then he threw me out of the house with some money and told me not to come back until bedtime. Bless him!

I went to the movies and saw Poseidon, which was great. I love the old one and the remake is just as good! Then I went to the craft store and clothing store and browsed to my heart's content, picking up some bargains along the way. My children gave me a gift certificate, so I bought some new bras (can't go wrong with good, quality underwear, right ladies!). Then I went flower shopping and out to dinner with my mother- and sister-in-law. It was great to enjoy adult conversation without any of us being interrupted by someone who wants the attention returned to them. Then I went to a coffee shop and had a caramel macchioto while I worked on my synopsis.

All in all, a wonderful day! I came home to lots of hugs and kisses before my husband put the kids to bed. Now I feel tired and happy and reluctant to start my week. But I know it will be a better week for the break I had today.

Many times as a mother I've felt under-appreciated and over-stressed. Many times I've felt invisible and tired. But there are other times my heart has swelled to bursting as I watched my children or cuddled them. I experience awe as I watch them grow up and learn new things. And through it all I wish with all my heart to be the best mother I can be. As a very smart person once told me, "If you worry about being a good mother, then you are one." I must be a great mother, because I worry about it a lot! :)

I'm not a traditional mother. I'm not a disconnected mother. I'm not a young or old mother. I'm just a mother hoping to make a peaceful, loving home for her family, while not losing myself in the process. Today I received hope that I've succeeded in some small way, for I received the following card from my husband:

You're more than a wonderful Mom--
you're the keeper of memories,
the maker of everyday miracles,
and the one whose love brightens the ordinary days
and makes every occasion special.
You're more than a wonderful Mom--
you're a remarkable woman who's thought of today and always with love
and a wish for everything that brings you joy.

Coming from a husband who normally goes for the funny cards, this one is extra special! His regard and insight means the world to me.

I'd like to remind all you mothers out there how special you are. You work hard, look out for everyone, do the grunt work nobody else wants, and second-guess your struggle to do the right thing, all the while trying not to lose yourself completely. Now that I'm a mother, I realize how hard all that really is. So here's to you! Great job!

How did all you ladies spend your Mother's Day?

Angel

PS The Children would like to wish our friend, author Rhonda Nelson, a speedy recovery from her surgery today! Take it easy, Rhonda, and milk the sympathy for all it is worth!