Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful women in my life! I hope each and every one of you is enjoying your day! The kids were very excited that today was Mother's Day. By the end of the day I will have heard, "Happy Mother's Day Mom" enough times to last me until this wonderful day rolls around again. After driving around this afternoon looking for a restaurant that didn't have a line out the door and around the corner, we finally ended up in a little Mexican restaurant(yes you read correctly...Mexican food in Indiana). We have learned to appreciate a few good Mexican restaurants here, we just had to adjust our concept of Mexican food. Growing up in NM, Mexican food is lathered in fresh red or green chili, which is not the case in Indiana. However we have learned that their food, too, can have a unique flavor that can hit the spot. Anyways, back to the point of my story... At the end of our meal, the waitress brought out a basket of truffles and offered one to me. It was the restaurants' gesture wishing all the moms a happy day. Well Luke didn't like that he was not included on this chocolate treat and very clearly told dad, "That's not nice!!" Dad kindly explained that these treats were just for the mommies today because it is their day. Still not satisfied with dad's answer, Luke further refined his answer, "Well that's not nice to the boys!!!" Of course we were rolling!!

I recently read a short book on being a tuned in mother. I thought the author had some wonderful words of encouragement for mothers in the midst of motherhood chaos. She was addressing the power of being tuned in to your children and how that was not a complicated thing. Her suggestions were simple. Smile. A smile can go a long way. Listen. Listen to what your children are saying or asking. Be there. Be in their presence. Children take a lot of comfort just knowing that mom is there.

Smiling is the suggestion that really struck a chord with me. I love to smile! I think it is a kind thing anyone can do without any effort. She helped me to remember to smile at my children often, to gaze at them with loving eyes and to be thankful for the gifts the Lord has given.

So imagine me, smiling just for you!