Mom

Its not that I'm late in giving a tribute to my mom...I was waiting to multi-task! We just celebrated Mother's Day and tomorrow is my mom's Birthday.
Maybe this doesn't sound too unfamiliar to a few of you. When I was living those glorious, lovely teenage years, my mother and I didn't see eye to eye. And I thought she was crazy. Well, she's still crazy but now I understand what a wonderful thing that is. Anyway, you remember when you were a delightful teenager and you would say things like, "I'm never going to do ______ like my mom does!" Or, "I can't believe that you would say_____, how embarrassing!" Etc. And then you find yourself doing and saying those exact same things? You don't even notice that its happening, just one day you realize how much you are like your mom. And if your like me, you are grateful to have inherited those traits and values. But lets talk about an inherited trait that I'm still learning to understand. Was it necessary to be this similar?
My mom was married in June. In April, her first child was born. When this first child was a month away from her 4th birthday, my mother welcomed her 4th child into this world. And no, there were no multiples.
I was married in December. In October my first child was born. In September - a month from when my first child has his 4th birthday - I will welcome my 4th baby. And again, no multiples!
I dearly love my mom and consider her to be one of my closest friends. Someday I hope to have her energy, spirit, unwaivering faith and devotion and kindness. My mom can be counted on for anything, anytime. She is such a source of strength to her family and those around her. And did I mention loud and fun. Its never dull when she is around. She can make any situation something to celebrate. Maybe there are some that think she is a little crazy - but I think that is an attribute to strive for. I have learned so much from her in my short life and I still have so much more. I'm so happy to be moving closer to her so I can be with her more often. Sure we'll be 5 hours away - but that's much easier that 2 1/2 days! Thank you, mom for all you have done for me, all you have suffered and endured for me, and all the love, patience and kindness you still show to me everyday!
Don't misunderstand and think that I am in despair and full of regret. I love my 3 (almost 4) babies very much. They are each such a blessing in so many ways. Heavenly Father obviously knows something about Pat and I that we don't...yet. But we are so very grateful and feel extremely blessed to welcome these babies to our home. Even though it wasn't our idea to have so many babies in such a short amount of time, that's the path that was given to us and we will do our best to live up to the expectations and responsibilities that come our way. How blessed I am to have such a supportive and giving husband - but let's save that for another post!
Back to mom - You did it. You had 4 babies right away and then still had 2 more! You are an amazing woman, mother and friend and I love you! And even though I inherited the fertility genes that give us beautiful babies but makes us crazy - I can only hope and pray that my crazy will be the same as yours. And continue to find myself more like you. Someone to be admired!
Thanks mom! I hope you have a wonderful birthday! We love you!