Being a Mom is hard.

Are you a parent? If so, I feel strongly you will relate to what I'm about to say...even if you don't want to admit it.

Being a Mom is hard. It's not only hard, but super frustrating, uncomfortable, awful, fun, amazing, ridiculous, exhausting and also, so rewarding. Our kids push our buttons, drive us nuts, break our hearts, depend on us for all things and then one day they wake up, move out and don't look back. Um...excuse me? All of that work and you're just peacing out? Yup! What is so incredible about this though is that you are one of the reasons they feel empowered to do exactly this-grow up and move out! Congratuations! You BOTH made it!

There were definitely moments you questioned ever having kids. There were moments when you thought one, or both of you, might not pull through, but there were also moments where you shared such pure and unconditional love. Moments when you knew so clearly that you would die for this ungrateful, little beast. Moments where you starred at their sleeping-beauty little face and breathed out a sigh of relief that they're quiet for a few minutes. Finally.

I have made the mistake(?) of giving everything of myself to my kids. Their happiness has been my priority for over 18 years now. I have done everything I can to make sure they got to their appointments, played the sports, visited the places, spent time with friends, got to and from part-time jobs, got fresh air, etc, etc, ETC. Not to mention all of the daily stuff like provided meals, clean laundry, cleaning services, grocery shopped and worked full-time to provide all the things. It's just what us parents do.

I feel confident that someday my kids will be able to look back and see that they had it pretty good. Despite being late a lot (something I MUST work on), they have had a lot of wonderful in their lives. I can only hope that as they continue to become adults, our relationships will continue to grow and strengthen even more. 

My Mom used to say, with teared filled eyes, that my brother and I were her greatest accomplishments. I understand that so completely now. My kids are the very best, and often hardest, thing in my life and I wouldn't change a thing.