Happy Mother's Day to all my "Mothers"

There are many women who have raised me and influenced my life, but I want to say Happy Mother's Day to these ones in particular, who I feel have had the greatest role in shaping me into who I am today.

First of all, my own mom. My mom has been through a lot in life, but one thing that has always been clear is that she sacrificed a lot for us, her kids. I remember when I was in high school, my mom was in school for dental hygiene and I really don't think I even grasped at the time the kind of sacrifices she made for us. She got up at the crack of dawn in order to make breakfast for us before she had to leave for school and often she would put something in the crock pot for dinner. She would arrive home late after a long day at school and then stay up even later studying. I never heard her complain or become upset about her situation- she just silently went about taking care of us in the middle of everything else she had going on. My mom and I are still very close and I consider her one of my best friends and closest confidants. She is also the best grandma out there. She loves her grandkids and is always surprising them with little presents in the mail.

My step-mom, Sharon, has also been a really great example in my life. She is kind, caring, generous, and giving. She doesn't expect anything in return, but she is always thinking of ways to serve us and to give to our kids. My kids love visiting Grandma Sharon and Grandpa Dave's house because they are always willing to get on the floor and play with them. Sharon has been such a wonderful addition to our lives and we are really grateful for her influence. (ALSO- Happy birthday to my dad today!)

My mother-in-law, Colleen (but more often known as "mom" too). I don't know anyone more Christ-like. Devin's mom raised 8 children, one of whom is the amazing husband I have. Let me tell you, she raised him right. He is so kind and sweet to me and I know that he learned this from his parents. Devin's mom also influenced him to be a righteous leader in our home and for that I am very grateful. Devin's parents are moving near us very soon and I am excited to have them that much closer. Devin's mom is always willing to help us, no matter the personal cost or sacrifice, and she is such a wonderful example to me. 

My Grandma Shawna. This woman is a pillar of amazing-ness. I don't think I can be a fraction of the person my Grandma Shawna is. She does it all- and tried to teach it all to myself and my sister and cousins growing up- including cooking, baking, cleaning, sewing, family history work, temple work, etc. Grandma Shawna, even though getting up there in years, still attends the temple multiple times per week and does family history work in much of her spare time. I remember so fondly the times when we had "lessons" at Grandma's house. She made us feel special- my sister Jennifer, me, and our cousins Shawna and Anneka- because she took time with us to teach us how to cook, how to sew, and how to do other projects. I can't say that I developed many of those talents (she gave up on trying to teach me to sew with a straight stitch-- I got to use the zig zag always because I just didn't have the patience for the straight like the other girls), but I do remember the special times at her house as some of my most special memories growing up. 

My Grandma Donna. I have always had a special relationship with my grandma. She makes each of her grandkids feel like they are the most incredible person in the world. Just talking to her and hearing her call me "my Kimmy Kim" can brighten my day. I also remember fondly times with this Grandma- when she would take us to the McDonalds to play, or take us to the Sand Bar in St. Anthony and tell the other kids there that if they were mean to us, she would use her black belt in karate on them. :) We have so many annual traditions with Grandma that are so meaningful in my life, including her annual Easter Egg hunt with money instead of candy, our trips to the mall every Christmas to sit on Santa's lap, and now in our older years Witchapalooza, Neil Diamond concerts, etc. I love this woman.

And finally, my aunts Mari Ann and Sue. I have many aunts, but these two have had an incredible influence on my life. My Aunt Sue is the strongest person I know. She has endured more than any person should have to in one life, and yet she does it with faith and with a sense of humor that I admire. I love that she texts me every so often just to check in and chat about life. I love that I know that if I ever need anything at all, she will be there for me with no questions asked. I love that she has been an additional mother figure in my life and I am so grateful for her. Mari Ann is the first to text me or call me on birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. I can talk to her and confide in her about anything. I love that she is so sweet with my kids, too- whenever she is in town for work, she makes sure to call us to go swimming at her pool, or to have pizza and donuts. We couldn't ask for a better aunt. I also appreciate her example as a mother figure in my life. I am so blessed.

And...these three, for making me a mom. Love them.

I have an incredible husband. I know you already know that, but I am saying it again. Not only did he let me sleep in this morning (even though he was the one who worked till 1 am), but he woke up and made a feast for breakfast (and he had purchased all the food himself without my knowing!) and had flowers and my favorite candies waiting for me, along with handmade cards from each of the kids. What a sweet man. I love him so much. I count my blessings everyday that I have the husband that I do, because he treats me with so much kindness and love and I never have to doubt how he feels about me. 

Flor made this for me at school. I love it!!

He even bought donuts "just in case" as he said. :)

Happy Mother's Day, whether you are a mom yet or not. I am also remembering and honoring those today who have placed a child for adoption, the ultimate sacrifice in my mind, and those who long so much to have a child to hold and care for. I know this day can be so hard for some.