Mother's Day Photos

I am finally getting around to posting these pictures from last Sunday! Mother's Day is an interesting day for me. I obviously miss my own mom and that brings with it lots of emotions. But because she is no longer here for me, I find myself treasuring even more the time that I have with my girls. It's strange to think that her absence has brought any kind of blessing, but one thing I can say is that I don't take for granted the time that I have to spend with my daughters. I know that it could be taken away from me in an instant, and in a strange way, I am grateful for that reminder. This year I had to give a talk at church, and I was a little bit worried about it, worried about being able to express myself and keep my emotions in check on a day that is difficult and a topic that is sensitive. I was asked specifically to focus on being a mother of young children. Of course, I used Elder Ballard's talk from last conference which to me is an absolute landmark talk, one that will be referred to for years to come. His four suggestions to young mothers: Recognize that the joy of motherhood comes in moments, Don't overschedule your self or your children, Take time for yourself, and pray, study and teach the Gospel. Great advice. I am so thankful for my own mom, an incredible mother in-law and a wonderful step-mother, too.

Note: I've been playing around a little with photoshop and digital scrapbooking, so I had some fun with these pictures. There is so much more to learn!