On Mother's Day 2011, I woke up at 3am to Rauly staring at me...creepy! It took me a few seconds to register that she was even there, but when I finally did, I immediately sat up and asked her what was wrong! Then she handed me a very large gift that was wrapped and said "Happy Mother's Day!". I was so surprised I didn't quite know what to say, but after she laid her gift on my stomach, I said "thanks hon...now go back to bed.". And she did.

At 5:30am I was woken up again ,,,but this time, it was to scuffling in the foyer...instantly I knew someone was rummaging through the hall closet and I could hear little voices whispering so I knew that it was the kids. I figured they were looking for Shep's gift (which he had hidden in there). Call me a bad mom, but it was WAY too early to be waking up...especially on Mother's Day - the one morning throughout the year that a mom can hope to actually sleep in!!! So, I hollered out that ALL of my little children had better be in bed by the time I walk in there!...they quickly ran back to their room and I went to bed with a smile on my face.

There's nothing like being woken up at 3am and 5am by your kids lavishing you with gifts to make you feel loved (and sleepy!). It was a very special day, and I want to always remember how excited they were to make me feel special...their gifts were really neat too (thx Paterson Elementary and STPFI for your creativity and thoughtfulness). :-)

There's no words which would fully express my thankfulness towards our mom's. I always feel like I fall short when I try to express my appreciation to people, but especially when it comes to these two women! I'll be forever grateful to the sacrifices my mom made so that she could give me the best childhood she could possibly give me...every good memory I have as a little girl includes my mom. She had a way of making EVERYthing fun and exciting...I never felt like a nuisance or a burden to her. She was a constant cheerleader at times in my life when I so desperately needed a fan, and she was always...ALWAYS on my side. And words can't express my gratitude for the job Linda did in raising Chad...and yes, it is a JOB to raise a child! He is an incredible man,...self-motivated in so many ways to be the best he can be in all areas of his life. I'm so thankful for the man he is and that is largely due to his sweet mom! So, thank you ladies!!! You are dearly loved and appreciated!