to the amazing women in my life

so many gushy thoughts going through my mind today on mothers day.  I feel so grateful for the women who have set strong, courageous examples for me.

My mother-- Beverly Ann.  Optimistic, kind, forgiving, repentant, always serving and encouraging.  Naturally beautiful.

Aaron's mother-- Brandy Lee.  Outgoing, adventurous, party-thrower & entertainer, friend to everyone- especially the lonely, gift giver, tender-hearted.  You are truly a gift in my life.

Sisters 
Annette-- crafty, intuitive, strong, nonjudgmental, holistic, always reading and learning, wears her heart on her sleeve, visionary.
Lori-- well-rounded, smart, helpful, capable, giving, collected under pressure, creative.
Kristy-- playful, laid-back, work horse, great conversationalist, leader, can take on anything.
Debbie-- bubbly, straight-forward, insightful, steady, funky, energetic, clean, helpful, sensitive, loyal.
Amy-- party-animal, dance machine, easy to laugh with, people-person, faithful, steady, strong.
Katie-- firecracker, confident, always knows how she feels, direct, no-nonsense, organized, happy.
Rachel-- practically perfect in every way, knowledgeable, talented, capable, outdoorsy, athletic.
Jen-- sincere, musical, patient, thoughtful, structured, selfless, such a sweetheart.
Cindy-- soft, opinionated, aware of herself, sensitive to others and her environment, dedicated, pretty.

Shum Sistas
Bronmin-- wise, artistic, poetic, tender, spiritual, the older sister to look up to and admire.
Kt-- defender, honest, fun-loving, giving, great listener, best laugh, fantastic mother, well read.
Cody-- authentic, babalicious, marches to the beat of her own drum, amazing, adaptable, soul sister.
Jade-- strong, the real deal, non-dramatic, says it like it is, faithful, stalwart, beautiful.

Friends
Karlin-- the most courageous mom I know.  Though she is little, she is fierce.  She will do whatever it takes to give her kids a healthy childhood.  I am amazed by her strength.
Francine-- so inspired by her ability to do everything well.  She is well rounded and thorough.  She doesn't let anything get her down, not even cancer.  I love Cini.  She is my best friend rock.
Hillary-- so giving and selfless and completely family-oriented.  This girl has been dying to be a mama for so long and I cannot wait for her to meet her baby boy in a few weeks.  She is a supermom and wife.  She will give the shirt off her back to someone in need.
Azy-- makes motherhood look easy with her four babies in five years.  She plays such a great supportive role to her hardworking husband and she's not a complainer.  She is also a total babe.
Val-- real.  spunky.  hilarious. Val is always there to offer comedic relief and a shot of reality to any situation.  She is a great listener and advice giver.  Always a good time with Val.
Phyleen-- is like a breath of fresh air.  She is also one of the most naturally beautiful moms.  She is so genuine and easy.  She is such a caregiver.  She also has an adorable laugh.
Suzanne-- is a powerhouse.  She is so strong and so capable, yet at the same time so tender and soft and in touch with emotions and what everyone needs.  Suz is a sounding board.
Lisa-- intuitive, stalwart, supportive, faithful.  She makes it easy to talk and vent-- while offering great insight and advice.  Conversation is easy and natural.. an instant friend.
Jane-- literally the best neighbor anyone could ever ask for.  She brings me delicious food when I am the most hungry. picks up my kids for the afternoon, encourages me to get outside and be adventurous.  She is always doing something artistic with her kids and I love being around her.

To my Grandma June-- for your sweet beauty and for finding the simple joys in life.  marriage, family, cooking, games and traditions.  I love you.

To Roma-- you may be the single most influential woman in my life and left a legacy behind.  You were never afraid to be yourself.  You didn't fit in with the normal crowd and that's why I was always drawn to you.  My memories with you are all fond and tender and silly.  Thank you for loving me fiercely  and being my biggest fan.  I love you so dearly.

To Nancy and Julie-- two of the most unselfish and fun-loving women.  You are constantly on the lookout for ways to serve and uplift others.  You have done so much for me and my little family and you make a difference in such a big way.  We love you.

To Bev Olson-- we are not related by blood, but I consider you family.  You are one of the strongest women, overcoming more in your lifetime than dozens of women combined.  I am so grateful our paths crossed ten years ago.  You are a mother and grandmother in our home.  We love you and are thinking about you today.

Happy mothers day to all the amazing women in the world.  My heart is full tonight.