Seven years ago today, I spent Mother’s Day with my mom. I took her to brunch after church and thanked her for all that she had done for me. At that time, I’d just met the man I would later marry and was still in the throes of my career as a public defender. It was also during this time that I was considering the FBI, and was halfway through the application process to be a special agent. Little did I know, things would soon change…

The following year, I decided to turn down the opportunity with the FBI and got engaged. Then a year after that, I was a newlywed contemplating starting a family while still struggling with the career question of what to do next.

That’s when I found out I was pregnant. Naturally, I was ecstatic but I still had no idea what was in store for me. I continued on my legal career path until the day I gave birth to my daughter. Since that day, I haven’t practiced law. I miss aspects of my career, and I’m looking forward to fighting my way back into the legal game someday. But for now, I don’t want to miss a minute of the most important task I’ve ever been given— motherhood. It’s been such a sacred responsibility and humbling journey, and at the same time, a thankless, priceless, one-of-a-kind experience.

As I watch them grow and develop, I’m so thankful to my kids to be their mom. I realize that I, too, am changing into a more complete person. They’ve taught me so much about relationships, about God, and about life. Laughter is ever present in our household, but the most serious aspects of life and parenting seem to revolve around the knowledge that most things will affect their future.

I want to protect them and watch them flourish, and at the same I’m in a tug-of-war with wanting to let go and hold on. Above all, I want to guide them and enrich their experiences.

As I celebrate another Mother’s Day with my little people this year—I still find it funny that I’m the one being celebrated—even though I invest in them daily, I’m equally aware that my children are an undeserved gift, a blessing beyond measure. I wouldn’t trade motherhood for anything and am honored to share this day with so many other amazing women around the world.

To those of you who are moms or to those of you who will be someday—let’s celebrate this amazing feat and continue on this precious journey!

With a mother’s love,
Kathryn