Happy Mother's Day!

You know, so often I take life for granted-- a wonderful husband; beautiful, healthy children; a comfortable home; the privilege of spending every day with my babes... of educating them and exposing them to all things noble and good; a loving family, 4 fabulous grandparents... oh, the list goes on and on.

But today-- Mother's Day-- I'm reminded... I. am. so. rich! God has bestowed on this very undeserving gal

life's greatest treasures...

Today, those very treasures spoiled me rotten w/

a delicious breakfast in bed, a beautiful serenade (Bub wrote a special Mother's Day song just for me :), handmade cards from each of the boys, thoughtful gifts... wrapped in toilet paper (I can only assume they didn't know where I keep the tissue paper?? Thankfully, it was clean~), a little Star Wars on the XBox (I'm not sure they really wanted me to play-- it just sounded like a good idea since it was my special day :), an awesome cookout, a leisurely stroll through Old Town and a few chocolate milk shakes to top off the day. Whew, I'm tired, but oh-so-content.

Yes, being a mom is truly the greatest joy of my life. Children-- my children-- are, simply put... the best!

Oh, I neglected to mention their lovely artwork... you see, while Chris was grilling steaks in the backyard, I followed my littles out front and watched them decorate the drive way. Here's a peak :)

(When I asked Bub why "rocks" was spelled "roks," he casually informed me that that's how "they" do it... as he enthusiastically strummed his air guitar... ???)

Precious. Truly.

Ok... so my Mother's Day rocked, and I hope yours did, too! Before I wrap this up, though, and head off to bed, I'd kick myself later if I ignored here (in this specific post, so creatively titled, "Happy Mother's Day!") the two very special women in my life who have influenced me more than any other:

Mom, you are my greatest role model and my inspiration. Thank you for modeling for me, every single day, the love of Christ... sacrificial love... pure and unadulterated... flowing from a heart that knows no limits. You are truly heaven-sent.

And Moggie-- you raised one heck of a guy! Thank you for sharing him with me~ You have been like a second mother to me and a best friend, too. You have encouraged me and you have helped me; you have loved me all these years, and for that, I thank you~

I love you both immensely! Happy Mother's Day~

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.

~Washington Irving