Mothers Day Tribute to My TOTS Who Made Me a MOM

To Karson - although I gained roughly 70 pounds while pregnant and morphed into this odd amoeba of a person with swollen feet and ankles, I somehow managed to produce this beautiful 6 lb.,  12.25 oz. baby girl.  Your dad didn't let me cradle you long before he swooped you up, swaddled and hurried you out to the waiting room to show you off to everyone.  The first great-grandchild and grandchild on BOTH sides of our families, you have never wanted for anything.  I can't tell you how many baby 'thank you' notes I had to write.  Your life has been a blessing.  As I watch you slowly growing into this lovely young lady, I am constantly proud of the decisions you make.  You are confident, driven, dedicated and work hard at everything you commit to - church, academics, sports, Instagram =).  You are truly beautiful inside and out, and I admire you so much!  You make being your mother easy and wonderful!  I am very proud of you.

To Isaac - (same pregnancy story) although I gained roughly 70 pounds while pregnant and morphed into this odd amoeba of a person with swollen feet and ankles, I somehow managed to produce this beautiful 7 lb., 9.75 oz. baby boy with Donald Trump hair which curled and grew all over.  Growing up with only a sister, I never knew what it was like to have a brother in the house.  Boys weren't familiar territory for me unlike your dad who grew up with four of them.  It was love at first sight when I met you on January 25, not only for me, but for your sister Karson.  You got more kisses and snuggles from her than anyone else.  She was always concerned about what her 'lil' bud was doing.  You were the BEST baby - completely content 99% of the time.  I'd plop you down in Karson's room, and she would keep you thoroughly entertained stacking toys in your lap or bringing you a sippy cup.  You drove her crazy in the bath with your constant splashing.  She loved pushing you in your electric swing and simply taking care of you.  You have had two mothers in your life =).   I see myself in you in many ways.  I authored books as a child, one fort was never enough, a picky eater, puzzle lover, hesitant to try new, scary things (like food and roller coasters), wanted to create movies and videos all.the.time, and the list goes on.  You and I are soul mates.  I am blown away by your ability to write, create and problem solve.  You are smart and headed straight for the NBA draft.  Hopefully, Lebron will still be playing when you're selected. You are my precious child full of love and laughter!

Thanks for "knowing" me - so much straightforward information in one sweet document.  This Mother's Day, you were the child who couldn't wait to find me the perfect gift, two new puzzles.  You asked Dad to take you to Barnes and Noble so you could select just the right one.

Isaac didn't make it to church last Wednesday night when the kids worked on Mother's Day cards.  Ms. Katie took pictures of their arms for the painting.  Since Isaac wasn't there, his didn't have an "arm picture".  He attempted to make me a painting but didn't like the way it turned out so he drew me another picture.

To Miles - Your dad and I knew we wanted more than two children but we weren't actually trying for a 3rd child when we found out we were pregnant with you. I had actually just gotten back into my pre-pregnancy clothes when the positive line showed up.  I called my pregnancy buddy Melissa, who I knew would assure me that she was also pregnant, but there was nothing but silence on the end of the line followed with "no way" and maybe even an "are you crazy?"  I can't remember, but I felt completely lost and uncertain. I had a 1 year old and 3 year old demanding every bit of my attention.  How in the world would I manage a newborn baby? Again, gaining roughly 70 pounds while pregnant and morphed into this odd amoeba of a person with swollen feet and ankles, I somehow managed to produce this beautiful 8 lb. baby boy who Karson had dubbed as "Barbara" because she was convinced you'd be a girl.  You completed our family and have been a trooper.  I know it hasn't been easy being the 3rd child (and actually the 5th child in the grandchildren pool).  You learned early that taking turns and sharing meant survival.  I love how much you embrace life and each day.  You cannot wait to play with your friends and everyone loves you.  Your smile is the highlight of my day - when you wake up, grin and then ask me if I'll fix you some pancakes.  I love being your wonderfull mom and am thankful everyday for that positive pregnancy test =)!

 

I love all my Mother's Day homemade cards, notes, gifts.  Thank you Miles for the new hot pink lawn chair!

From body wash to new garden gloves, my family sure has spoiled me this Mother's Day.

To my Mom - I am super thankful to have had a mother who can rock a bee hive in 1969.  All kidding aside, she is my best friend and someone who is always there when I need someone to listen.  She gives the best advice and is always in my corner no matter what.  She went to every game, every program, every awards ceremony, when I was a child/teen.  AND, she is currently at every game, every program and every awards ceremony that my children have.  She is so supportive and loving, and always says 'yes' even if she doesn't feel like it =).  I love my mother and am thankful my kids have such a loving Meme!  Happy Mother's Day!