Mother's Day

Friday was the "Mother's Day Tea" at Liliana's school. It was wonderful. When the Moms arrived we were asked to wait in the hall outside the classroom. Each child came out to get their Mom for the party and presented her with a bouquet of paper flowers he/she had made.

We had place cards at beautifully decorated tables where the teachers served us iced tea and lemon popy seed cake which was made from scratch by the students.




At each Mom's seat was a special book. Each child had a page where they drew a picture then described their Mom (written out by the teacher). Here is what Lili had to say about me.

My mother's name is Lauren. She has blonde hair and she looks kinda like me but I have short hair. Her favorite colors are red and pink. My mom looks pretty when she goes to church. She wears a beautiful dress or pants and shirt. My mom makes the best oatmeal. My mom likes to play Clifford games with me. I know my mom loves me because she gives me hugs when I hurt myself. My mom helps me be good to my brother and sisters.



After the tea we spent some time on the playground. Here is Lili swinging with her friend Gretchen.



Before Lili was born I remember writing up a dream job description. It was my dream to be a full-time Mom, and a part-time musician. I have my dream job. I can't say motherhood is exactly what I thought it would be, but I love it. I love the standard things, like snuggling,...






...and reading.....



And I just love the feel of my children holding my hand. It is magical when I take their hand and they walk with me.



I was surprised to find out that I really enjoy preparing little plates of food.

The clean up is not my favorite part. I sometimes wonder how much actually goes in their mouths.

My son has a talent for getting food under his bum and trashing his pants at each meal.

Speaking of mess......this is probably the least favorite part of my job. How can one 5 year old create such a mess?

And then there are the tantrums.

Motherhood develops unusual talents. I've gotten very good at the "foot hold" method of changing a toddler who does not want to be changed.

Joe gets upset, but Faith is so ticklish she ends up laughing.

Then there are the sweet and comical moments that melt your heart.....when one cookie isn't enough......

Or three little joeys pretending the couch cover is a kangaroo pouch.

You do become your parents, and it isn't long before your children begin modeling you. Here is Lili strapping in her siblings for a "ride" in the living room. Liliana wants to be a Mommy when she grows up.



Calm quiet moments are few......

I can't get enough of my kids, and then I'm so glad when my little angels are asleep.

A few years ago I was riding somewhere with my parents and my brother. Linden and I were in the back seat chatting, or most likely arguing about something. My Mom said it made her so happy to see us together. At the time I thought that was kind of weird, but I understand now that my kids are old enough to interact, play, fight, laugh, etc. They make up games, dance, and discover together. Lili takes them by the hand and they will follow her anywhere. I sometimes wonder if Lili listens to what I say, and then I hear her telling her siblings almost verbatim.





My Aunt Linda recently brought over three child-sized folding chairs. We already had one, and one of anything in this house is grounds for war. My kids love chairs almost as much as they love shoes and hats.

A very happy Mother's Day to all our mother friends.