Tomato Basil Wheat Thins

Happy Mother’s Day! I’ve always loved this day, even before I became a mom. I think it’s important to celebrate the moms in our life and recognize the sacrifice and love they bring us day in and day out. Every year in my circle of people, Mother’s Day is our first celebration and family get-together that kicks off the summer fun that is to come. (That is unfortunately not the case this year, but we’re not focusing on that today.).

I’m most proud of the three moms in the picture below…four generations. My heart could explode just looking at this picture!

I have so many positive female role models in my life and most of them are mothers. From my actual mom, to my grandma and aunts, to friends, and colleagues. I really feel that we are all a member of the infamous mom tribe. We find comfort in sharing stories, laughing about the chaos, and revealing secrets of how we survive the day. We feel joy when we see our kids playing together and bond over memories made with each other. I have learned so much from these women and I am certain they influence pieces of how I parent Summer.

To say I admire my mom as a mom is an understatement. She is the epitome of motherhood. She keeps the tidiest house I know. She makes amazing homemade meals (she has so many classics that she’s known for, but can also whip up a new recipe like it’s nothing). She sews. She can garden. She plants the most gorgeous flowers (and keeps them alive – that part is mind blowing to me, as I have killed a cactus). She’s the best caregiver when you’re sick and knows just what to say when you’re upset. She brings you treats or sends you something when you didn’t even know you needed a pick-me-up. She also has this incredible ability to “predict” certain things in your friendships and relationships and even though in the moment it might annoy you, you already know she’s gonna be right. My mom is the best role model ever.

Not gonna lie, this made having my own child a little nerve-wrecking. It’s important to note that nobody puts this motherhood pressure on me except myself and maybe sometimes society. But, with that being said, I just want Summer to look up to me like I look up to my mom. I believe I am a loving mother to her, but I definitely don’t think I’m a carbon copy of my mom. However, seeing her motherly ways showcased in her gamma status has been pure joy. I’m very thankful that Summer gets to experience all of that greatness while she grows up like I did. (See below: aren’t they the cutest? They’ve had coincidental matching outfits on more than one occasion.)

My mom has always lifted me up as a mother and reassured me that I’m doing a great job. I appreciate that, of course, but the words never mean as much when compared to actions. It seems conceited to admit, but I feel so fulfilled when my mom shows she values me as a mom or when I overhear her talking about me to others and how I am as a mom. One example of this that I remember vividly (and it’s very random) was when we were camping. We were serving up a bunch of snacks and about to play games. My now sister-in-law asked my mom what type of cracker was on the platter after she tried one and thought it was delicious. My mom told her it was a tomato basil wheat thin. She followed it up with, “Aren’t they so good? Starr got them once and I love them.” So silly, right? But it meant the world to me. Not only did I introduce my mom to something she loved and bought, but she gave me the credit for the yummy snack. I’m always asking my mom for recipes and tips/tricks in the kitchen, so this truly felt like an accomplishment and validation.

I can really get overwhelmed with emotion when I think of the impact we have on each other as parents. This can be positive or negative and I surely hope I’m one of those positive forces in the mom community. It’s not always easy, and it’s crazy to think how much your life changes in a split second, but it’s always, always worth it.

Summer is the reason I sometimes get heartburn if I eat ketchup or enjoy wine too late at night. She’s the reason my tailbone hurts for days after sitting on the floor or lying on my back for too long. Summer’s the reason my sciatic nerve spasms randomly. She’s the reason I have baby hairs outlining my forehead. But, she’s also the reason my smile is genuine and my heart overflows. She’s the reason I work hard every day to provide a good example and give her a wonderful life. Summer is the reason I am brave and have the courage to advocate for her needs. She is the reason I get to celebrate today.

The days are long, but the years are short. There’s no greater reward than parenthood. I’ve been a mom for 4 years now and it’s been the greatest gift of all time. Much love to all the moms in my life and a special “heart ya” to my SummerGirl.