The older I get, the more I realize that life is all about being inspired. Inspired to take a risk, inspired to try something new, inspired to show kindness towards others, and inspired to be happy. The key to all of it is finding inspiration in the world around us and the beauty in simple things.
I've been blessed to have been surrounded by amazing women who have inspired me to be a better mother and to be the best I could be.
To start, my grandmother was a firecracker. She was fun and feisty and elegant and proud. That's her below in the hat, with her arm around her mother.
My grandma was an integral part of my childhood. She lived about four blocks away, which always made me feel safe and wonderful. She was a strong woman and knew what she wanted. She always told it like it was and knew how to enjoy life. She didn't have much education and was a cafeteria cook at an elementary school, but she did know that education was key and brought a certain amount of pride and honor to her job every day. If any of us grandchildren were acting out, we knew it was bad if grandma would honk the horn outside signalling her arrival. She'd talk to us, but with loving sternness, and kept us in check.
My grandma's spirit is still alive and well today. I named my daughter after her and wow--she's a firecracker too! Grandma, I will love you always.
Where to begin with my mom? My mom is my rock. My best friend. She's an amazing woman who can be shy and yet outspoken; strong yet unassuming. She's a true warrior in every sense of the word. No matter what curveball life has thrown her, she keeps going with perseverance and with grace. I am so thankful for my mom and for all that's she done. She's held my hand through thick and thin and let me tell you -- there have been some dice-y moments, but she's never left my side. She has taught me how to love unconditionally as a mother and how to be a great mom.
Mom - I love you very much. You're my inspiration.
Happy Mother's day to all the mommas out there.
