My adventure with Moms

Mother's Day is a big deal.
And I think most mothers will agree.
It's a bigger deal than father's day.
And still, I think most mothers will agree.

I have a better Mother's Day than most. Why? Because I have two. Two Moms.
I differentiate between these two women by entitling one 'Mother' and one 'Mom' in my thoughts and speech.
One of them gave birth to me. One of them raised me. And yet, I can still call each one my mother.
This puts me in a position I think is enviable. Most ladies are close to their moms. They call each other to chit-chat, to ask for advice, to relate a funny story or just to hear the other ones voice. I am close to mine. I love my Mom. She is the most wonderful woman. Full of compassion, thoughtfulness, service and loves with all of her heart, this lady taught me so much by her example. My Mom stands as an ensign. A clarion call to those who wish to do more, to be better. I love her for her faith, her perseverance, and her support. She is still my Mom- which means she still has that "parent" mantle. But I am coming to feel her more and more my friend and confidant. This is perhaps a natural progression of a mother-daughter relationship. The transition period may be difficult to navigate and perilous at times. However, the end result is stronger than it began, and on more even footing. I am thankful everyday to my Mom for showing me how to BE a MOM. Happy Mother's Day to my Mom. I love you so very much. And yes, I am your daughter.

But I don't have just ONE Mom, I have two!

My Mother is the woman who selflessly gave birth to me. She gave me pom-poms to dance with. She took care of me and loved me. She loved me so much, that she saved me by giving over my care to another person. This had to have been the most difficult thing any woman can ever do- give away the child you love, so they can have a better chance at life. I know how I feel about my children, as I'm sure you feel about yours. That connection between mother and child is so strong, and to break it even temporarily is pain I cannot understand. My Mother had a difficult time with life, but she overcame her trials and has succeeded in her school and work endeavors. I am proud of my Mother because she has made herself into a woman with strength and compassion. I love you too, Mom (mother). You have done well for yourself. That is a good thing.

I am a mom now, with two beautiful children. I love waking up to their faces and telling them all the fun stuff we get to do over the course of the day. I love helping them wriggle into and out of clothing- sometimes a few times a day. I love the smell of clean baby and the squeeze of chubby buns. I love watching with pride as James zooms around the sidewalk on his bike- fast as the wind. I love watching Oliver's little legs as he runs to keep up with his brother: bippity-bippity-bippity-bippity. I love to snuggle with my family at the end of the day, reading books and giving kisses.
Being a Mom, no matter how hard- and it is the hardest thing I've ever done- being a mother and a mom is always worth the sacrifice.

Happy Mother's Day to my Mom, my Mother, my fellow moms and to me. May we remember they joy of our lives brought to us by our venerable position as the MOTHER.