Thank You!

Let's just say that Mother's Day has matured!

Like a fine wine, my Mother's Days have gotten better each year.

This year was no exception.

We had a busy weekend, but Mark made sure that I got to do some things I wanted to do.

One of things I wanted to do the most was sleep in. I rarely get to do that.

And boy did I sleep in. I couldn't believe it when I rolled over and looked at the clock on Saturday morning and saw that it was 10 am!

I seriously can't remember the last time I slept that late. I really didn't think it was even possible anymore.

The rest of our day was filled with work and the graduation party of a great friend. We got home late and Mark still hadn't been able to do his shopping for Mother's Day.

Fortunately, our favorite grocery store that carries just about anything a person could need, is open 24 hours a day.

So, at 11:30 Mark headed out to do his shopping. He returned at 1 am. He didn't go to bed until 4:30 am.

Austin was up at 7 am and Mia was not far behind. I felt really bad for him so I offered to get up and help him while he got breakfast ready.

I asked why he was up so late and he said, "You'll see. I was getting ready for your day."

When I got downstairs there were a dozen beautiful roses on the table, my first card of the day and an assortment of wonderful pastries.

While I played with the kids (and Austin eyed the pastries) he began preparing Cafe con Leche. It was so thoughtful and a welcome change from my daily cup of coffee.

As I drank it I remembered my wonderful and beautiful Abuela that I lost last fall. I know that this Mother's Day was hard for my dad and uncles, but hopefully they will be able to take comfort in the influence that she had on their children and grandchildren.

For breakfast, Mark made me Jumbo Lump Crab Eggs Benedict, a beautiful fruit salad and pastries. It was SO delicious!

Because he had barely slept, I hung out with my sweet children while he took a brief nap.

Then it was back to cooking for him. He was asked to make his fabulous smoked ribs for our family Mother's Day dinner. It is a six or so hour process that requires fairly constant attention, so he was locked into that for majority of the day.

He encouraged me to go and do something I wanted to do and so I did. I went to the gym. I was one of three people there. Talk about ME time.

Even better, my Mother's Day gift was a new pair of sneakers that I picked out myself. I love them!

I came back home to more cards, happy, rested children and the wonderful aroma of smoked meat.

I showered and we headed to our family dinner.

It was a nice way to end a great day and weekend.

But, easily the best part of the weekend was late Saturday when Mia finally began to utter the word, "Mommy." What a gift!

Thank you Honey for loving me so much and making me feel so appreciated!

I am one lucky Mommy!