I truly believe motherhood is by far the absolute best job I could ever have. I also believe it is the most frustrating and demanding and at times I’ve wanted to throw in the towel. These 5 kids make me cry tears of joy and gratitude, they also provoke me screaming in anger. They keep me up late. They wake me up early. They help clean the house and they can also destroy it faster than I could’ve ever imagined. They need me. They touch me. They hang on me. They hug me. They run away from me. They roll their eyes at me. They are simultaneously my greatest joy and my largest concern.

What I find most interesting is how these 5 tiny humans have changed me. I was 22 when I had Hallie and by most people’s standard, I was a child myself. And yet I jumped in and gave it my all and for many years it felt like they took all that I had. But they have caused me to grow in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Life has a way of giving you what you need – and I most definitely needed all of them. Each one continues to teach me about myself and how to love more fully. We all learn from each other and I love seeing my growth as well as their growth. We’re in it together and we’re exactly where we should be.

I’m grateful for schools who create mother’s day programs and for a husband who is generous in making it a mother’s weekend instead of just a day.

I was in Bennett’s classroom Friday morning for “Muffins with Moms”. He sang songs in Spanish and English and showered me with beautifully crafted homemade cards and gifts. My favorite part was sitting with him on the reading rug as he read aloud a chapter book. He has grown so much this year and I couldn’t be more excited for his entry into the world of reading.

I had to chuckle when I read both Bennett’s and Cannon’s “All about Mom” cards – they both referenced going to movies – which is something we rarely do, but clearly needs to be bumped up on the activity list! Oddly enough neither mentioned loving our evening family bike rides that take place nearly every night!

This drawing paints an accurate picture. Bennett standing in the kitchen asking what we’re eating. Cannon at my feet and Briggs clamoring up my leg all while I try to cook dinner and I’ve got bread in the oven. This is mom life at its finest!

Yesterday Steve gave me the gift of alone time – in my own home. I often have alone time running errands or doing random things, but I’ve mentioned just how much I’d love to be in my own home alone. It was just as delightful as I’d hoped. I cleared the playroom out, yet again. Got rid of more stuff we didn’t need as well as everything that was broken or missing parts. Then I moved on to Briggs’ room and went through clothing and blankets and toys…nothing was safe. I had a couple hours and had I had more time other rooms would have been swept of junk. Perhaps next weekend.

Steve and the kids offered this basket to me today and not only was it themed it was completely meaningful and thoughtful – It was perfect.

And I was informed I’m as beautiful as….Steve. Yep. Thank you dear four-year-old.

And this is when I realized Cannon truly knows me – he knows I’m a sucker for a good sunset. I always want to ride our bikes at night as the sun is going down so I can bask in the beauty and marvel in the transformation of day to night.

It was a beautiful weekend. My bucket is full and so is my heart.

Just the motivation I need to go strong for two more weeks until school is out!