I had not really embraced Mother’s Day. I always perceived it more of a “Hallmark Holiday.” I very much appreciate the women in my life who have molded, protected, nurtured and endured me. Small gifts, flowers, cards tell them thanks but never really seemed more than superficial.

Until now.

Perhaps, it’s the sleep deprivation of a newborn or that I’ve become more sentimental having added a little girl to Team Weisman in the last 3 weeks. But this year, the week of Mother’s Day 2016, I feel like a true mother. It’s taken 4+ years to sink in but now, I finally have had the time I needed to reflect and fully embrace my motherhood.

Here’s what happened:

I took a deep look and actually mourned my “before children” self, accepting she would never return and letting go of that life.
Then walked down memory lane, cherishing the small celebrations and big moments of the past few years but also forgiving myself where I felt I had failed or been defeated as a parent.
Finally, I accepted today, fully embracing the beautiful mess that it is while looking forward to the future days to come.

So this Mother’s Day, I want more than it to be “happy” for you. My prayer is that you also embrace your motherhood. Dive in, feel the emotions that go along with everything mom. Relive the pains, aches, anxiety along with the all consuming, marvelous peace, love and joy. Swim in the depths of memories. Float in the blessings of your children.

Not only are your children uniquely created, but you, beloved, are fearfully and wonderfully made as well. Time to claim it all, you will not fail!

Let me share a beautiful song "Slow Down" by Nichole Nordeman that touched me during this journey.