There's Nothing Like A Mother's Love

Mother's Day is a strange day to me. 
 In my eyes it is difficult to understand why we only spend 1 out of the 365 days a year celebrating the mothers in our lives.  These women spend every day of their lives focussed on mothering those around them.  They are tested and tried by us difficult children who love to push the limits, and yet they love us with open arms.  They accept our friends into their home and can't help but to take on a loving and motherly role for them as well.  I think back to my high school graduation party, when I saw my mom looking upset.  I asked her what was wrong, and she told me that she would miss having all of my friends over.  She would miss having her house filled with children laughing, having fun, and accepting her motherly love.. Something we will NEVER stop wanting.  Whether moms work a full time job outside of the home, or they stay home with their families, they still have this 24-7 responsibility of taking care of someone else.  They put themselves second constantly to put our needs and wants above their own.  Yet through all of this, we give them one day? Like I said, it's very strange.

I was lucky to have a mother that did all of these things and so much more for me.  I definitely was not an easy child to have.  I constantly argued my point, believing I knew best.  Now as a nanny, it seems to me that most kids think this way.  Despite every mistake I made however, she was always there taking me back.  When I look back at what she dealt with, and how she dealt with it, I can't help but think about the Parable of the Prodigal Son.  Luke writes about the son who left, spent all his fortune, and did what would typically disappoint any family.  However, when he returned home, his father embraced him with open arms and unconditional love similar to that of God's love for us all.  My mom has been one of the biggest signs of God's love since the day I was born.  She has forgiven me for any mistake or sin, and loved me even more than before.  How in the world is this even possible?  I mean really! Think about what an absolutely mind-blowing concept that is.  

There truly is nothing like a mother's love.

So today I am sending a special thank you to not only my mom, but to all the mom's who do this for those around you.  I don't know how I was so blessed to be surrounded by so many loving women, but some how I am.  This year I'm thinking of not only my inspiring and kind mother, but I'm also feeling grateful for the following women:

Cindy Anderson
I have spent my life dreaming of having a little girl one day.  This is something I think many women dream of.  You however got extra lucky, and spent the past 21 years in a 3 boy household.  I don't know how you kept your sanity with those crazy, stinky, funny boys.  Despite this, your boys learned from you to be respectful, kind, loving, considerate, hard working, and so weird. (One of their best qualities I think). Somehow I got lucky enough to fall in love with one of your sweet boys, and I will always be thankful for him, the way he was brought up, and all that you have done for him and me in these last 4 years.

My Grandmothers
How did you deal with my parents?? Only kidding.  Thank you for raising two parents that would know just how to love their daughter despite her mistakes.  Unconditional love is something you learn through experience.  My parents are able to love me the way they do because they were each loved so dearly from all of you.  You raised the best parents I could've ever dreamed of, and I am so thankful. 
 I love you each so much.  

All of the strong female role models
Each of you has given me someone to look up to.  I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by women who truly strive to be the very best they can be.  You each have inspired me to love as God does, to work hard, to care for all things, and to be the best version of myself possible.  Whether you are a friend, an aunt, a neighbor, a friend's mother, or a teacher, thank you.


So please, each of you remember that today, and every day, you are so loved and incredibly appreciated.