Happy Mother's Day

 I want to wish a very happy first Mother's day to my sister Elaine. Over the last 5 months, since Ellie Jess has entered this world, I have seen my sister transition into motherhood seamlessly. She totally gets it.

She has rolled with the tough parts and has fallen so deeply in love with her daughter.

She is even balancing that whole work/life balance like a champ.

Elaine, The El's is so lucky to have you as her Momma. In just 5 months you have proven that you are an awesome Momma. But then again we always knew you would be because you are the best Tia around. The kids adore you and know that Cari and I will get just as good to EJ.

 And speaking of Cari....

This is always my first call when it comes to parenting questions. I trust her advice 100%. My crazy weird sister has managed to raise a teenager who is so confident, so talented and so smart. Chone does things with no fear and that because she has a Mom who raised her to be that way.

And she has Lili and Felix who are growing into really awesome people. They may be twins but they are so different and my sister knows how to encourage each of their strengths. She helps them move out of their comfort zones and encourages them to try new things. 

 And to both my sisters thanks for being such good Moms and giving me such awesome nieces and nephew. I love these kids like crazy.

I love how each of them reminds me of us. It was like we mixed the best of of us and made these 6 incredible kids.

And of course we could never be who we are if it wasn't for the fact that we were raised by the most loving, and supportive Mom out there.

I am never going to be as good as she is. But I have spent the last 11 years trying to be. If there is one thing I know to be true in this life it's that my Mom loves me. Knowing that has allowed me to be brave, to have confidence in myself, to find my true passions in life and to start my own family knowing that I could give my kids what they needed because I grew up with a Mom who made sure that all our needs and wants were met. She made sure we grew up to be smart and kind people. 

And now we are watching my Mom and her sisters and brother take care of their Mom. I see the love and patience that she had with us that she now gets to shower on her Mom.

My Nana. Who raised 9 children. The idea boogles my mind. I really believe that 2 kids is my limit. This woman did that times 4 plus 1. And they are all such good, hardworking and kind people. A testiment to my Nana. And my Grandma Rachel. The woman who raised 6 kids practically on her own. Who raised her kids to know that family is important and that life if nothing if you are not having fun. These women were both a big part of my childhood and I love them so much.

I am very blessed to have a life where I am surrounded by so many women who are exceptional Moms. Happy Mother's Day to all you. I wish for a day where you can sleep in, eat whatever you want, and maybe even take a nap. Because we all know that this Mom gig is exhausting!