Happy Mother's Day.....

Or Happy Women's Day as we celebrate in our house. I love that we have a day to celebrate and appreciate women. I love that we celebrate all women in our family...I don't know if my mom started cause she thought that I felt bad because I don't have kids yet or she just truly understands that we are all mothers in some way, but I love it! Honestly I feel okay with the fact that I don't have children yet.........don't get me wrong it is a huge desire of my heart but I try hard to see what influence I can have in others lives without giving birth to them. :) I have had SO many opportunities to give around me that I sometimes forget that being married and having a family of my own is actually something that can happen! I have 6 wonderful nieces and nephews (and one on the way) who I ADORE!!! They have taught me so much about the patience, love, sacrifice, and humility that it takes to be a parent. I couldn't ask for better kids!!! They ALWAYS know when I need a hug, smile, or phone call! I have laughed hard and often at their jokes, played like a kid again, and snuggled till we all fell asleep. I enjoy being able to babysit them often and I truly cherish the time that I can give to them, many times it is a sacrifice but I always come away feeling loved. Thank you for making me feel special!!!

I am very thankful for all the wonderful women in my life. I have taken some time the last few days to reflect on the influence that so many awesome, talented women have had on me through the years. I have rubbed shoulders with some of the best that there are! I have been blessed with so many great examples in my life, women that have taught me many things and who live their lives in a righteous way. My mom who is simply a rock! 2 wonderful grandmothers who have left his earth but who continue to teach me as I learn more about their lives, 4 sisters who are my dear friends---they support me in all that I do and are always there for a good chat, aunts, cousins, second mothers, Bishop's wives, friends, co-workers, school mates, roommates, mission companions, ward members---the list goes on and on!!

Many of these women have come and gone in my life but their influence and examples have stayed. I have a quote in my room that I think describes all of these women perfectly...it is by President David O. McKay:

"A beautiful, modest, gracious woman is creation's masterpiece. When to these virtues a woman possesses as guiding stars in her life righteousness and godliness and an irresistible impulse and desire to make others happy, no one will question if she is classed among those who are truly great."

I just want to thank all the wonderful women in my life who have influenced me in so many ways. Who have taught me what is right, who I consider among the great, and who have unwavering testimonies of Our Savior. Thank you for making a difference in my life so that I can in turn make a difference in someone else's.