On Being Mom

This Mother's Day and the few days leading up to it have been very special as I have been able to reflect on what kind of mother and person I am and still want to become. Since having Wes, I have had a better glimpse of my capabilities and it has been really wonderful to do and handle things that I didn't think I was able to or have the patience for. My definition of "chaos" has evolved and I realized when it was just Thad and I, there was close to none of that going on at our house. We don't have a ton of it going on now, but I am able to handle what we do have. The Lord knows exactly what we need in order to progress and have understanding. Being a mom has given me both of those things and adding Wes to our family has furthered that understanding and I'm sure each child will add to the depth of my progress and understanding.

I have thought a lot about how I want my household to run and what I want my children to learn, and the sacrifices and efforts I have to put forth in order for those things to be achieved. I know more of my time needs to be spent on my knees and with my scriptures open. The Lord can only help those who help themselves and I need to do my part because the Lord's part is going to be much more effective than mine, so I need to make sure my children are privy to His help and understand He is the one helping us make it through this life so we can be together in the next.

I am so grateful for the chance to be these boys' mom. I can't imagine anything better I could be doing this time in my life. I am growing and learning in ways I could not be otherwise. Motherhood is sacred and special and I hope to do my part in this special role God has given me.

 What a joy to wake up to these two faces each morning.

 We play,

 Watch shows, 

 Goof around,

 And relax.

 These boys make me me.

I had a wonderful day with breakfast in bed, receiving a wheel from my handsome 3-year old and being waited on hand and foot.

I can't forget to mention that NONE of this would be possible without an amazing father by my side.He supports me and loves me which gives me the strength and ability to be the mom I want to be.

“[Growing] up in this culture, it is very hard to get a biblical perspective on motherhood. … Children rank way below college. Below world travel for sure. Below the ability to go out at night at your leisure. Below honing your body at the gym. Below any job you may have or hope to get. Motherhood is not a hobby, it is a calling. You do not collect children because you find them cuter than stamps. It is not something to do if you can squeeze the time in. It is what God gave you time for.” -Rachel Jankovic, (used by Elder Neil L. Anderson in "Children" October 2011 General Conference)