Over eight years ago, I was blessed with the opportunity to be a mother. I remember bringing home Taterbug from the hospital and suddenly realizing what a huge responsibility Hubby and I were undertaking...and how we were pretty sure the hospital wouldn't take returns should we change our mind on parenthood. Kidding. We loved our kids from the start and it was the kind of love that saw us through colic, teething, ear infections, and any other random act of discomfort that caused unending crying or whining. All the smiles, first words, funny sounds, and slobbery wet kisses made up for any temporary discomfort we might have experienced. I love my kids more than anything else in the world and I can't say enough thanks to Hubby for giving them to me.

While our life as parents is full of butterflies and gumdrops, I did have a moment to reflect upon the harder times - the times when I'm reminded of how fragile and demanding they can be. How late night dreams and scary outside sounds can talk any kid into thinking a serial murderer is outside their door - and the persistent request that they need to sleep in mom and dad's bed, be honored.

The Culprits:

Taterbug's gonna need a gallon of conditioner for that hairdo or hairdon't:

For a tattooed little punk, you'd think C-dub would be a little braver:

Happy Mother's Day!