Happy Mother's Day

               I often tell my three children that being their mother is the most wonderful and the most difficult feature of my life.  Ever.  And often on the same day.  And I wouldn't trade it for anything in the universe.  And I know I am blessed and lucky to be able to be a mother -- to be their mother.

               Let's be honest, being a mother is hard work.  Really, really, hard work.  When my children were young I was faced with the prospect of working full-time, having my children in daycare for five long days every week, or of quitting work.  My husband (now my ex-husband) and I decided that although it would be a struggle, the only solution was for me to quit work.  I walked away from the practice of law -- and in large measure from the ability of having a career -- and it was the best decision I could have made.  I feel fortunate that I was able to make that choice. 

               And, in truth, when I quit the legal profession to stay home with my young children, I felt like I had been thrown off a swiftly moving train!  I was not prepared for staying home with young children all day.  Being at home with my children, every single day, was the hardest thing I had ever done.  Way more difficult than law school or the practice of law!  Being a "full-time mother" also taught me how hard my own mother had worked to raise her four children and as my appreciation for her grew, so too did my love for her.

               We can point to studies about how a mother's love and caring -- or lack thereof -- shapes a child, sets the tone for their whole life.  I think we don't need studies for what we know in our hearts.  So I want to say, thank you to all you wonderful mothers out there.  You are doing the world's most difficult job.  I hope that even on those rough days you can hang in there.  The world thanks and appreciates you...xox