Belated Happy Mother's Day

When Chris and I chose our wedding date, the last thing on our minds was the fact that our anniversary would forever coincide with the weekend of Mother's Day. For that reason, the second weekend in May is always a pretty busy one at our house, with Chris taking the kids out to shop for me and then spending all day Sunday pampering me... It's a rough life! Meanwhile, we always try to fit in some kind of anniversary celebration. This year is was lunch out, and a play at the Grand Theatre on Friday evening -- and for the first time, we didn't have to get a babysitter! The kids were fine at home alone for the evening. What a milestone!

This morning I realized that I had neglected to post anything on my blog for Mother's Day, so I'm making up for it today. I have the world's best mom to celebrate! And she is my most devoted reader, so I know she'll see this today. Sorry it's a few days late, Mom. For over 40 years you have been absolutely the best mother I could have asked for. You gave Tracy, Brad and I beautiful childhoods, and you have given us all unwavering support during our adulthoods. My children are blessed to have you for a grandmother, and even more blessed that you are the example I have to follow of motherhood. I love you, Mom! I'm so glad I got to give you your Mother's Day gift (a little early) in person this year. I hope you had a wonderful day!

Happy Mother's Anniversary Day!

When we chose May 11 for our wedding day, I wasn't thinking about how someday I would have to share anniversary and Mother's Day celebrations.  It wasn't at the top of my mind at the time. But now, how do I know if those roses are for Mother's Day or our anniverary? It's a good thing the card makes it clear! But do I get taken out for dinner once or twice? Once with the kids (Mother's Day) and once just with my honey to celebrate our special day?

I really can't complain. Chris always makes sure I am sufficiently celebrated. This year Lori and Ben and Karen and John came to London on Saturday to visit with their mom, so we had a Mother's Day celebration then. Sunday we took Nana out for lunch, and then Chris and I went out for dessert and a late movie in the evening to celebrate our anniversary, since he unfortunately has a business dinner he has to attend tonight. He came home early this afternoon so we could spend a bit of time together before he had to go out. Lori came for supper and we played games with the kids before bed, and now mother and daughter are downstairs visiting, and I am writing outside Connor's bedroom door.

How my life has changed in 14 years! Fourteen years ago I had no idea I'd find myself living in Ontario. I hoped I'd be lucky enough to be a mom, but I had no idea I'd have two such wonderful kids! The one thing that hasn't changed in 14 years is the man I married. Well, he has changed in some ways, but he is still the kind, loving, brilliant guy that he was then, and I know now as I did then that I am blessed.

Below are my mother's day gifts from the kids, and a few pictures of our Mother's Day celebration. Mother's Day or 14th Anniversary — it doesn't matter which; it's all about cherishing the good things in life!

Connor gave me a necklace and coupon for three monthly breakfasts in bed!

Janelle gave me these lovely embellished rubber gloves!

Lori brought a Mother's Day cake.

The Mothers.