There aren't enough thank yous

Today, on Mother's Day, we honour all the moms, grandmothers, godmothers, mothers-in-law, stepmothers, and mothers-to-be. And for those who are not yet moms, we think of you, too, and all the mom figures in our lives.

There aren't enough thank yous for mothers. It is probably the hardest, most selfless responsibility there is, being a mother. There isn't anything we wouldn't give or do for our children, and we do it every single day, not because we have to (or because we're looking for thanks), but because it's in our hearts, in our being, deep in our cores.

I only understood this fact after I became a mom myself. And it wasn't until I became a mother that I appreciated and loved my mom even more. Because now I get it.

I get the hustle and the financial strain; I understand the extracurricular activities and the push/pull feeling of being a full-time working parent. I relish the morning snuggles, I worry all the worries, and I hurt when they're hurt.

And I'm pretty sure that never goes away. I'm confident that my mom still worries about me, feels my pain when I'm hurt or upset and beams with pride when I succeed. She can still calm my anxieties, cheer me up or let me know if I'm wrong. That's the power of a mother.

But even more special is the power of the grandmother, and while I'm sure it's wonderful to watch your children become parents, it's even more awesome to watch your parents as grandparents. The love and generosity, the playfulness and devotion, and even the discipline, it's all familiar, only with an extra, special, silver lining.

So, to my mom, I say thank you. There are not enough thank yous for everything you've done for Laura and me, and especially for the kids. We are all so fortunate to have you to hold, to worry for us, to put us in our places, and to make the best dinners ever. A million thank yous, and then some.

Happy Mother's Day Mommy.