A Tribute to Mothers that Inspire Me

Throughout my life, and especially during the last three years, I have been inspired by the examples of many women. In honor of Mother's Day, I would like to pay tribute to just a few of the women who have touched my life.

First and foremost is my mother (aka "Mimi"). My mom has always been my #1 fan. She has been a huge support to me throughout my life, and especially these past three years. She is a great mother and a wonderful example to me, and I only hope that I can be the kind of mother to my children that she has been to me.

Next is my mother-in-law, Sylvia. She is the epitome of a fun grandma. She tells great stories and is always coming up with creative games to play or activities to do with her grandkids. We share a love of cooking and she has taught me a lot!

My list of inspiring women would not be complete without Virginia (aka "GG"). She is one of the most amazing women I know. Although I hardly knew her when the babies were born, she has become a dear friend and we consider her part of our family. She continues to help out nearly every weekday morning and other times as well. It is because of her that I get a shower every day, I get my errands run, and most importantly, that I keep my sanity! She is truly an angel.

My Grandma Rappleye has always been an inspiration to me. I am the oldest of her 53 grandchildren and because of that we have always had a special relationship. She is such a kind and generous person. She is constantly serving others, and always has a smile on her face.

Now that I have one red-head, I think my Grandma Curtis deserves a medal for raising THREE red-heads! (Everything they say about red-heads is true :-) )Something else that amazes me about my Grandma Curtis is that she never forgets a birthday or anniversary. With 5 children, 21 grandchildren and lots of great-grandchildren, that is not an easy task!

Another inspiring woman in my life is Cassaundra. She is one of those people who is constantly giving of herself, her time and her talents. It is partly because of her that Jayson and I have been able to maintain a strong relationship, despite all the chaos these past three years---she watches the kids every few weeks so that Jayson and I can get a much-needed date night!

My good friend, Natalie, has also been an inspiration to me. She has a strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and I have been impressed by the way she has been able to instill strong moral values in her children. She has also been great at helping me to step outside my comfort zone every once in a while and let the kids do things like play in the dirt!

Barbara has been a devoted friend from the very beginning. She continues to help on a regular basis and is always willing to come over whenever I need her. She and Virginia watch the babies for several hours one day a week so that I can run errands. I am so grateful to them for giving me a weekly "day off". Barbara has a great sense of humor and always makes me smile when she is around.

Tammy is one of those people for which the glass is always "half full" instead of "half empty". No matter what challenges she is facing in her life, she always has such a positive outlook. Early on, she developed a special relationship with Ryder. Every Sunday she takes Ryder during chuch and she often comes to get Ryder to take him on little outings and give him some individual attention. It is wonderful to have people who truly love your children!

Being a mother is the hardest thing I ever done, but it is also the most rewarding. I am so grateful for all of these women and many more who inspire me every day and help me to be a better mother!

Happy Mother's Day!!!

A Tribute to Mothers that Inspire Me