A Mother's Hug

A Mother's love. Looking back at all the memories I've had with my mom. It's truly a gift I will have for the rest of my life. Being this is my Mom's favorite holiday (Christmas) I can't help but think about her more than usual. In this picture it was my wedding day of course, and this moment is one I can still actually feel her arms around me and mine around her. I knew she was on borrowed time and in this hug we both knew what it meant. This was July 1st of 2000 and she passed August 23, 2000. So you can imagine what was running through our minds when this picture was taken. I can't put in words what this picture means to me and till the day I see her again this picture is what I hold in my everyday thoughts. It hangs right by my computer as a reminder of how much my Mom truly meant to me and my brother and sisters. This was a beautiful day having my Mom and Grandpa walk me down the isle. A priceless moment I know will stay with my kids and me. Me and the girls spent the day at the Mission Inn in Riverside getting ready. It was kind of hectic but at the same time I took moments to just look around at who was with me and what they were doing and embedding it in my brain. At times I think they were more nervous than me! Everyone was very helpful in making my day a lot easier and less stressful. For the short time we had to put this wedding into motion thanks to my Mother & Father in law it was better than a 40,000.00 dollar wedding. You can not put a price on having the most important person in your life being at your special day! What makes life easier for me is having married into a family that accepts me and my kids. I can say without a shadow of doubt they truly are my family. I feel like I have a second Mom that understands me and is supportive in everything I do. I can talk to her about things I would talk to my Mom about and it's not awkward. I also have a second Dad and a fourth sister! I'm truly Blessed to have married into a real family and a caring one at that. We have had our moments (but who has not?) I think that is what makes our relationship even better. We joke about who placed a bet at our wedding on how long we would last and to all their surprise it's been nine years married and thirteen years total together! I have a wonderful and loving Husband who accepts me and my kids unconditionally. I can't ask for a better family to have in my life. I appreciate all that I have and take nothing for granted because I know all to well how fast things can change.