Violet's Birthday/Mother's Day

Alternate title: Motherhood is like the Marines -- The Hardest Job You Will Ever Love!

Violet made me who I am today.....a Mother! As my first born it was her distinct honor to usher me into the role in which I feel I was born to play. Granted my subsequent children have allowed me to continually rehearse and perfect the part, put it was Violet who made me the loving, caring, controlling, neurotic mother that I am today. Thank you my darling daughter.

She was born on May 8th and Mother's Day was May 11th that year. We were still in the hospital on Mothers Day Sunday. My husband Roger left for brunch with my mother and father who had come to celebrate the birth of their granddaughter. I was left alone with Violet to celebrate and reflect on my new little angel. Her bassinet was pulled up beside my hospital bed but she was rarely in it. I held her at all times and just could not believe that she was mine. She was a tiny 6 lbs. and I thought that I might forget that I was holding her and drop her. There were so many things to worry about. I was afraid.

My life had just changed, for the better...but forever changed. I don't think I even grasp the responsibility that I held in my hands. I still don't. God has a way of showing us only small glimpses to keep from overwhelming us. If I had known how terribly hard it was, emotionally, intellectually, and physically I would have quit before I ever started. But I'm glad I didn't.

Motherhood is a gift. Not to be taken lightly, but for the immense responsibility that it is meant to be. Our children are given to us to raise and direct and impart values. There is a reason that Mothers Day is such a celebrated occasion. Mothers are special, they work hard to insure that the next generation is prepared for the future. Their job is great, rewards are generally few. But I challenge you to find a mother that doesn't love her job and doesn't grudgingly relinquish any aspect of it.

Celebrate Mothers Day this year with your mother, mother-in-law, or any mother you know. This is a day to recognize all they do for us. Honor your Mother.

Of all of the hats that I wear, my mother hat is the one that fits the best and is my favorite. Wonder if the kids will get me a hat as grand as the monkey is wearing above? I can only hope.