Why I Do What I Do...

Ok, with all of this complaining, I think I need to do a little clarifying.... I LOVE being a mommy! Obviously there are moments where I want to run, very quickly, back to my bed so I can hide, but for the most part I love my job! Growing up I didn't want to be a doctor, a vet or an architect... I wanted to be a mom. There are so many wonderful things I think mothers provide for their kids, and I always wanted to be able to do that for my own little rug rats! So, the following things are a few of my favorite job descriptions of mommyhood...
Please note: I am going to try to keep this short.. Both boys are asleep and I would like to follow them shortly!

*I just spent half an hour with Parker making silly faces at each other.
*I just cuddled with Preston in a low lit room with relaxing music for half an hour.
*I spend hours making the boys smile and that in return makes me smile.
*The things they learn are because of me.
*When no one else can understand what Parker is saying, I know every word that is coming out of his mouth.
*I know what the true meaning of selfless love is.
*My kisses can heal any wound.
*I have four little eyes and ears watching my every move and that makes me want to be a better person.
*Nine a.m. dance parties in my kitchen are more fun than a night out on the town (and I feel much better the next morning).
*Spit up on my shoulder, snot on my pant leg and stretch marks are worn like badges of honor among my friends.
*Every new milestone is just as exciting for me as it is for them.
*I always have someone to cuddle, kiss, read to, play with, talk to...
*I am helping to shape the people they will someday be.
*They have helped me find some amazing friends that understand me completely and that are always there for me!
*Everything (a bird flying, a train passing by, or even a light switch) is more exciting when we experience it together and I get to see the expression on their faces!
*They remind me that each day flys by and that I need to treasure each moment with them (as hard as that may be sometimes).
*No one can do this job better than me.
*They have this certain superpower that gives them the ability to make me laugh until I cry and cry until I laugh and for some reason that feeling is something I thrive on.

I have so much more to say on this topic, but seriously.. I am already in bed and my pillow is seducing me right now. So, I will leave you with this... As much as my children and husband drive me insane and as much as I hate the fact that I see 'work' to be done around my house everywhere I look, there is no other place I would rather be at this moment. Sure, things aren't perfect, but are they perfect for anyone? If someone answers yes to that.. They're lying! I have been given the greatest gift and I am going to cherish it.. The same way I hope you do.

If you sometimes need a reminder of why you do this and what makes you love it, make a list like I just did and don't be afraid to look back to it when you need to. Heck, don't be ashamed to leave it out in the open so others can see also. You can also make a list of the things that you think you do well. If you're a stay-at-home mom like me, you don't have a boss that can give you compliments on the amazing job you are doing (and who doesn't like to hear that), so don't be afraid to remind yourself of your strenghs. I know I pass out compliments all day ('Wow Parker, you were so good in the store today.' 'I am so proud of the way you shared when you were playing with your friends.' 'You are such a good big brother.') so it is only fair that I get to hear some also!