When my children were young, I thought of Mother’s Day as a day for me to NOT be the mom. I remember my first Mother’s Day so vividly. We missed church because I hadn’t lost enough of my baby weight to fit into a pretty “Mother’s Day outfit” (whatever in the heck that is! That’s when we went to “dress-up churches!”) Rowland took Carson and me to Cozymel’s, my still favorite restaurant, for lunch and gave me a beautiful, thick gold chain necklace. Each time I look at it, I am reminded of that special day that I had waited for since I was just a little girl.

As we added more children (and more children), Mother’s Day became a little more hectic. Rowland has always done a fabulous job of making “special” days even more special. (In fact, for those of you with less-than-creative men, you should have them give him a call!) Still, Mom’s Day is always on Sunday, and Rowland works on Sundays while I usually sing. We certainly love to worship, and I feel so honored that I’m able to participate with him, but it is essentially work to get the children ready and at church by 7:00 or 7:30 a.m. By the time we’d leave church, restaurants were overly crowded. With so many babies, both of us needed to pitch in most of the time. There was really no break from being a mom.

In the last couple of years, my perspective has changed on Mother’s Day. Instead of desiring to NOT be a mom on that day, I focus on the great privilege of having children, the blessing of being a mother. I thank God for each one of the babies He has given to me, and my heart becomes so full of love for them. I feel honored that I AM A MOTHER on this special day!

Now, don’t get me wrong. I still enjoy a little pampering, and Rowland pulled out all the stops this year. My children made me beautiful cards that I will cherish forever. My husband wrote me a poem that brought tears to my eyes. My “big” gift was the new Barbara Walters’ book “Audition” which I have enjoyed reading today. Rowland went to the church at 6:00 this morning to make sure everything was ready for the service, then came home to get the children ready so that we could all go together, a rarity! He had someone else leading worship so that we were able to sit together and leave after the beginning of second service. We beat the crowds and went to Chili’s for lunch. While I napped and read, Rowland and the children cleaned my entire house!!!! Honestly, could I be any more spoiled?

I am thankful for an amazing day, one filled with joy in my heart and thanksgiving for my four angels and my precious husband! A truly Happy Mother’s Day!!

Opening My Goodies Before Church

A Grateful Mommy with Her Four Precious Angels

The Real Mommy with Her Monkeys!!

Oldest and Youngest (in Her Pose, Of Course!)