A very special day to honor...

I want to wish every mother out there a wonderful and happy Mother's Day this Sunday! It is truly a day to openly show and express how grateful we are for these powerful and important ladies in our lives. Since becoming a mom myself, I have learned what hard work it really is to be a mother. It is a constant job that can be so challenging and worrisome at times, yet so rewarding and joyful, all the same. It is amazing. As a little girl, I always knew I wanted to be a mommy. I am incredibly happy to be a mother. The process and journey to motherhood took a little longer than expected for me, but thank goodness it did! Motherhood is a miracle, regardless of how you come into it. It is the best thing that I have ever done. My Bear Cub really is my dream come true!

I wanted to honor and recognize the special ladies in my own life. They are not all my mother, but mothers all the same, that have in one way or another, influenced my life, loved me, and taught me things, as a mother does. Thank you to these beautiful, beautiful women that I feel so privileged to have in my life! Happy Mother's Day!

For my own Mama Bear...thank you for your never-ending encouragement and love that has meant so much to me! You are wonderful in countless ways. I love spending time with you, hearing you laugh, and knowing that I can always turn to you when I need someone to listen or a shoulder to cry on. You have taught me how to be patient, kind, and loyal, among so many things. When I think back on my own childhood, your face dances in my memories, as you are what created a safe and happy place for me to grow. You mean the world to me and you make the world a brighter place! I love you!For my talented sister, Jessica...thank you for always being there for me! I can't tell you how much I learned about motherhood and parenting (and continue to) from having you as a role model. Your children are amazing and that wholly reflects back to you and your awesome mothering. You have many skills and talents, but wow, you were supposed to be a Mama, there's no doubt about that!

For my mother-in-law...thank you for always listening and being there for me and our family! You are a joy to be around and can light up a room with your smile. I give you so much credit for raising 3 great children...and for obviously playing a huge role in making my husband the man he is today. I can never thank you enough for that! I feel so blessed and lucky to be able to call you "Mom."

For my own Grandma...who passed away several years ago...thank you for showing us how to love unconditionally. She was a strong woman who lived through many challenges in her life. Yet despite these hardships, she always had a smile, a warm hug, and plenty of love to share. She was a lady with a hearty laugh, a huge and forgiving heart, and was always wanting to help in any way she could. I know she dances with the angels in heaven now.

For Grandma S...thank you for always loving me and making me feel as if I were really your own granddaughter. You are an amazing and strong woman, and I have complete respect for you. Also, you are a fabulous cook and baker...so I thank you for always sharing your secrets and teaching me the ways of the cooking world!

To Grandma C...thank you for your constant love that you provide. I love spending time with you. You are a great listener and have a sweet, kind heart. You've taught me to listen to the birds and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. And I bet you didn't even realize that. It goes beyond that...you've taught me to enjoy the pure things in life, as simple as they may be. You teach by example. And of course... we are quite a Euchre team when we play cards!

Sending out hugs and kisses to all the amazing mothers that I know and respect! I love you very much!