Moms

I am just so incredibly grateful for moms. First of all, I am thankful for my own mom. What a gift I was given to be the daughter of this wonderful woman. Anyone who knows my mom is particularly impressed with what a great listener she is. She is completely interested in what other people have to say. Even now, she always wants to know what is going on in my life and is available to listen to me. Her heart was (and is) always for me. This is such a powerful message to give to your children. I pray that my own children also know that I am always for them.

My mom has a heart for those who are hurting and suffering. She taught me to be concerned for the welfare of others. She didn't teach this so much by her words, but by her actions. I am so grateful for this lesson in life and love.

She's also very thoughtful. We are going to visit my parents soon and she asked each of the kids what they would like for her to make for dinner while we are visiting. One night we'll be having macaroni and cheese (Jadon), and another night we'll be having steak and shrimp cocktail (Lily). Yes. We laughed at that! They are so different.

Most of all, I am simply thankful for her heart of love towards me. She truly is a wonderful mom.

I am also thankful today, for moms, in general. I think that God created a pretty amazing set-up with moms and dads. Where one falls short, the other is there to fill in. And usually, the strengths of each parent are different from one another. Today, I am particularly thankful for the nurturing, caring aspect of moms.

Finally, I am grateful, in particular, for all of you adoptive moms out there. A couple of days ago Grace and I were looking at pictures of her orphanage in China. "I no want to go there. I no like that home," she said.

"Sweetheart, you will never live there again. You will always be here with us," I answered.

"I like it this home, with Mama, Daddy, Yana, Adam, Lily, Jadon, Roser..."

"Oh, Grace. We love to have you here with us." I responded, as I gave here a big hug.

"I have a Mama," Grace proudly announced.

So, to all of you adoptive moms, thank you for loving these little hearts. Thank you for giving your wonderful son or daughter a home and a mama this mother's day. I am so grateful for all of you!