Mother's Day....

On Mother's Day we went to Taggert's Grill. It's a beautiful place to eat. The grounds have Peacocks and Peahens, a beautiful pond with Koi, and a resident kitty running around. The kids loved it! Mason kept running around taking pictures of the peacock. He was hoping that he would show his feathers, and about the time we were ready to leave, he finally did! Now I have about 10 peacock pic's on my camera. Maybe Mason will be a wildlife photographer....We had a wonderful meal, and an equally wonderful dessert. They have a bakery in the restaurant with lots of great cakes and cheesecakes. We chose a chocolate decadent dessert. It was fabulous! After dinner, we went to visit with Grandma Joyce. The kids (and Grandpa and Bruce) played baseball in the yard, while Joyce and I talked. I'm so grateful to be a Mom. My kids mean the world to me, and I could not ask for a better life than I have (well, I would like my Dad back, but that's another story!). Every day I thank the good lord for the blessings I have. Number one is my beautiful children. They inspire me each and everyday. I love you guys and I'm proud when you call me Mommy, Mom and Madre (Colter).

Now for the Moms in my life.....
Here is my beautiful Mom. She is not only a "Mom", but my best friend. I talk to her everyday, and can tell her anything. She is a true example of strength. After my Dad died, I worried about what she would do. In the 40 years they were together, I could count on one hand the times they were apart. I didn't need to worry. She pulled herself up, dusted off, and started a new life. She joined a theater group, a concert group, and even traveled to Europe twice! She's even going again in October. As hard as it is for me to see her go, I'm so proud of her for doing it! I love you Mom. I know I've said it before, but Dad would be so proud! Happy Mother's Day!

*Funny story. When I was in College, I worked full time and had money to burn, so I had a collection of designer bags. My Mom always thought it was so silly to spend so much on a bag. So the Christmas before last, we bought her a really nice Coach bag. She was so overwhelmed and loved it so much, she went down and bought another one! Now every holiday, Dad buys her a new purse. Here she is with her Mother's Day Dooney and Bourke purse....You deserve it Mom!

Here's my wonderful Mother-in-Law Joyce. I am so in awe of her dedication to her family. Since Briggs has been sick, she and Vern have unselfishly taken care Quayden, and now baby Cambridge. Joyce has taken to being the baby's caregiver like a champ. Late night feeding, colic, Dr's appointments, you name it. Joyce has taken it on. It has been anything but easy, but she has done it. All with a genuine caring and love that is truly inspiring. I love you so much Joyce, and I'm so proud of how you've managed to keep it all together. You're a great example to me, and I wanted to say thanks for all that you have done!

Last but certainly not least, here is my awesome Aunt Mardee. She's had a crappy year too, but has never stopped thinking about helping others. While my Uncle Wade was dying, and she was so upset, she made sure to get an Easter dinner for Vern and Joyce. She was worried about them not being able to celebrate Easter in their time of need. Mardee is always thinking about how she can help. She has been invaluable in helping my Mom acclimate to life without my Dad. They do so much together, you'd think they were best friends. They go shopping, to concerts, plays, and even Europe! Mard is the classiest person I know, and I'm so thankful to have her in my life. I was GOING to post a vintage Mardee picture, but I knew she'd kill me. I posted this cute picture instead. Happy Mother's Day Mard!