Day of Mothers

Since today is the day to honor mothers, that is what this post shall be about. Seems fitting.

I grew up with a great mother. Visions of my childhood include:

Fun and unique birthday parties
So many activities I was involved in
Family holiday traditions
Car games on long road trips to our annual Colorado vacations
A household full of friends over to play
Activities that taught me how to read early
Youth group retreats

The list goes on...and what everything has in common is my mother. She was an excellent mom - not only to me, or to my sisters, but to friends, neighbors, kids in the youth group. My childhood is filled with memories that include my mom. She has always encouraged me to be involved, to be a friend, and to be my best.

Here are three words that describe my mom:

Empathetic: My mom has the uncanny ability to relate to people. She has had many experiences in her life, both positive and "character-building", and that has allowed her to be able to connect with many people. When sharing something with my mom, you can tell she feels. Whether it be love, hurt, sadness, excitement, pain, or fear, she feels what you feel.

Thoughtful: My mom loves to do things and buy things for other people. Especially if you don't live at home and come visit. :) She will go out of her way to make sure my favorite foods are on the menu, and will spend her last $5.00 on me if we are out running errands. She is always looking for ways to go out of her way and do nice things for me while I'm home visiting.

Friend: My mom is a friend. She loves good conversations, she makes people feel welcome, and as stated before, she finds ways to connect with everyone. She is a friend to the next person in line at the grocery store. Or to the people she just took a picture of in Colorado. Or to those she meets with to pray. Or to those she meets with to find the best pie, or best coffee in town. Always social, always outgoing, my mom is friend.

Not all people would be able to admit they have a great mother. Probably fewer people would be able to say they have a great mother AND a great mother-in-law. Somehow, I can say both. My mother-in-law makes me feel so much a part of her family that it would be a shame not to also honor her on a day to honor mothers.

Here are three words that describe my mother-in-law:

Sincere: My mother-in-law is a very genuine person. She remembers details and spends quality time with others, making them feel special. She loves to spend time with people - whether it be over a cup of coffee, quilting, or bonding over a fun tv show.

Giving: My mother-in-law is very generous. She is always willing to give up her time to sit and talk, treat others to a special outing, and make a favorite meal. She enjoys to give, and looks for special items that could be considered "forever gifts" - something that is of good quality and will still be useful and enjoyable in the years to come.

Steadfast: My mother-in-law somehow stays very consistent. She is extremely even-tempered, patient, loving, and very slow to anger (as in never). She stays positive, is a good listener, and responds to others with good advice. There is not much that gets her rattled, and she is able to keep a peaceful demeanor while sticking true to her beliefs.

It's thrilling, scary, and the biggest joy in the world to now be a mother myself. I'm incredibly thankful for the examples I have in a mother and in a mother-in-law and hope that I in turn can be the best mother possible to my kids. 

Because let's face it. My kids are awesome.