On Being a Mother

My first Mothers Day as a mother.

I could easily write a tribute post to the amazing mothers in my life.  In addition to a fabulous mother, mother-in-law and grandmothers, there are so many people who have mothered me - aunts, friends, teachers, mentors, etc.  I truly am grateful for them and honor them today.

But, the tribute in my mind tonight is to my amazing husband and son.  I thank them for making me a mother and for letting me be the mother that I am, even if I don't fit the perfect mom mold, and for making me feel like a great mom even though I sometimes feel like I fall short.

Will and Liam gave me a beautiful necklace today (an emerald, Liam's birth stone) and card with very heartfelt messages.  I felt loved.  I feel loved.  I'm a mom.  Liam is almost a year old and he is a happy, healthy baby.  I'm blessed to have a job that allows me to be home with him (even though lately I've started to wonder if I work at home or live at work).  I have a husband that supports me in everything I do.  He still loves me even though he does almost all the dishes and a lot of the laundry.  He loves me for what I am and forgives me for what I'm still working on.

And, who is more forgiving than a baby?  Liam gives me a new chance every day to become a better mom and quickly forgets how sad he gets when I have a long teleconference during playtime or we don't get to go for a walk or bike ride because I'm working.  I love his sloppy kisses and even the bite marks that he leaves on my chin sometimes when his loves get a little aggressive.

I've waited for years for this day to be here.  I prayed for years to be a mother.  And, I am.  Will and Liam were both worth the wait.  I am so grateful for them and to them.  I am happy to be a mother.