Every Day Is Mother's Day to Me

Last night, my baby girl, S, was having trouble going to sleep. When I went in to check on her, I picked her up, wrapped her in a blanket, snuggled with her in the glider in the corner of her room, and rocked her.

As we rocked, I stroked and kissed her hair and talked to her. I told her how very happy I am to be her mommy and how lucky I am to have her. How she is my best little girl and I love her so, so much. I breathed in her sweet baby smell and felt tears coming to my eyes.

As we continued to rock, I thought about the fact that at this time, four years ago, I didn't think I would ever get to be a mother. My world seemed extremely bleak, and I was sad and angry most of the time.

Then, I thought about the fact that at this time, three years ago, I was happily pregnant, and enjoying a pretty easy pregnancy (sciatica and swelling aside), which would be followed by a fast and easy delivery.

May 2008: Happily celebrating my birthday and Mother's Day

Still in the "cute" pregnant stage. The "HUGE" pregnant stage was still to come!

Then, I thought, how I wish I could go back in time and tell the sad woman I was four years ago to have faith--that the hard part was almost over, that she was going to be a mother and soon, and that her daughter would be the most beautiful, sweet baby who is growing into a strong, smart, independent, funny little girl who makes her proud everyday.

Since she was riding a horse, she HAD to wear a cowgirl hat!

My little girl's growing up so fast. But she's still my baby!

S with her pal Zoe at Sea World of Texas

Four-years-ago-me would have a really hard time believing it. Some days, I can't believe it myself.

I'm so blessed. So lucky. Every day is Mother's Day to me.