To Mom, With Love on Mother's Day

Before I became a mother, I loved my mom. Of course I loved my mom. After I became a mother, though, that love really did grow. I have a whole new appreciation for my mother now. How did she make it all look so easy?! How did she raise two kids and work full time without losing her mind?! She kept the house decorated fun for each holiday, and clean and cozy in between. She apologized after every argument (and believe me there were a lot with me as a teenager), and always made sure we had what we needed. I now realize how hard it must have been for her to drop us at daycare that first day back to work after maternity leave. I now realize that every time my sister and I injured ourselves, her heart must have felt like it was going to jump out of her chest in fear. I now know how much she loved us, and how lucky I am to have had a mother like her. Raising children is HARD. There is so much to worry about – you even worry about worrying too much. You love your kids so much that you think you might explode (in a good way). Sometimes you just tear up because you love them so much, and sometimes you tear up because they drive you up a freaking wall! Overall, having a kid is the best (for those who choose that path). This one is for you, mom. I love you. Thank you for everything.