A Day For Mom's

Me and Allyson

"Do the best you can through these years, but whatever else you do, cherish the role that is so uniquely yours, and which heaven itself sends angels to watch over you and your little ones." -Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Motherhood, for me, has been one of my life's most challenging experiences. I feel like in a way, I am growing up with my children. I started having them so young--at age 19 is when we found out we were pregnant with Allyson. So young! I've had to stretch myself in ways I didn't know I could. I have felt emotions I didn't know were possible. I have rejoiced with them, cried with them, and have had my breath taken away by them. The very core of my soul has been changed--for the better, by them.

I know that being a mother is a gift from God, and I have fallen to my knees many many times in gratitude for my blessings. I look to the examples around me constantly for guidance and reassurance. I feel like I am continually learning and growing with my children, and that I might not ever measure up to their expectations, or be good enough, or what they deserve. I think those are all normal emotions for mothers, and it's healthy to want to be better, to do better, for our little ones.

I am so thankful for those mothers around me who have guided me and taught me through the years. Especially my own mom, grandma and mother-in-law. I love each of you and wish you a Happy Mother's Day!

Here are some of my favorite photos
of the kids when they were tiny:

Allyson Emily

Brayden D.

Reese Olivia

Owen James