Happy Mother's Day

Mothers are given the gift of creation. The ability to grow a life in our womb, and bring this life into the world. Through laborious love, suffering, and challenges, we become mothers.

My mom gave me many gifts in this world. I have particularly fond memories of things she created and helped teach us to create with our hands. She can sew like no body's business. I think if I were to invest some time and effort, I might actually be half as good at sewing as she is. She has dabbled in various types of crafts throughout the years. Some highlights:

• My sisters and I helped her make two different quilts with hand colored pictures representing various moments and stories in our family. These quilts are here in my home now, where I can look over the
  pictures of my childhood.
• Easter dresses. Mom used to make us Easter dresses.
  I particularly remember the year she made me a yellow bubble skirt dress.
  Oh it was lovely.
  
• Matching Jam shorts for my sister Lucy and I. We looked good.
  We know it.
  
• Miniature Christmas trees decorated in tiny decorations for craft shows.
• Teaching me how to knit when I was pregnant with Ella.
• Helping me make maternity clothes with a matching handbag.
• Costumes, costumes, and more costumes. Whatever we wanted to be for Halloween, mom could create it. From retro Cat woman, to leopards and pilgrims, we covered them all. These costumes now entertain my children. (although, they are not surviving 20 years in boxes very well... or in other words, my kids are destroying them...)

My mom has an eye for detail. And an eye for anything shiny, shimmery, glittery, and gaudy. She taught me much about choosing quality things and enjoying the simple textures of various fabrics. She shared her love for a great pair of shoes and great purse. As I was growing up my mom was an example of what hard work is, sacrifice, and endurance. Today my mom is more than 1000 miles away, but she is very close to my heart and my thoughts today. Happy Mother's Day Mom!

I am blessed to know so many great mothers in my life. Friends, family, sisters. I have many mother role models. Many who support me on a daily basis. I don't know what I would do without these wonderful mothers. I hope you are all having a wonderful Mother's Day.

The video clip above is wonderful. If you ever want confirmation that any type of creative outlet is not only OK, but necessary and important, take a minute for some enlightenment. The speaker is in the First Presidency of my church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. But you don't have to be a member to appreciate this message. Enjoy!