Dear Mom: You Are Responsible For Everything That Has Gone Wrong In My Life

Aaah, Mother's Day. My post is overdue.

My friend Anne and I have frequently laughed about our level of brattiness towards our mothers when we were teenagers. She in fact, while I can't remember her exact words, was the one who told her mom that everything that had gone wrong for Anne was her mother's fault. That's the plight of motherhood, I suppose: You give a wholehearted effort yet get blamed for things that had nothing to do with you. I think every mother dreams of the day when their children finally realize what actually goes in to being a decent mom. I had not been a mother for very long when I realized that my mom was doing her best, and any shortfall perceived on my part had more to do with ME than HER. Mother's Day for me is generally a little conflicted because while I want to honor my own mother, I can't shake my selfish desires for a day off and a little pampering. I need to get over it for my own sake. (Seriously though- I ate cold cereal with Kiki while Bruce slept in. Could you all gently encourage him towards at least a nice breakfast next year?)

In a burst of spontaneity, we wound up celebrating the day with two of my favorite families in the neighborhood. My own mom was out of town with HER mom, so it was nice to have a celebration with two really awesome moms.

Jaime, me, and Janet

The Real Housewives of Utah County.
(I couldn't decide which picture I liked better, so they both made it.)

Our husbands grilled some meat while Janet and I made all the sides, breads, and desserts. "How is this different from any other day?" we wondered aloud. Especially when we were cleaning up. (See...I need to get over it.)

Our kids had a great time.

My buddy Ethan is the one in front. We have a conflicted relationship. He doesn't care for me at all on Sunday when I'm "The Primary President," and wants to move in on weekdays when I'm "The Lady with MarioKart." I honestly wonder if he realizes that I am BOTH of those people.

I asked for new pans for Mother's Day. Bruce was scared I was punking him. "So, is she just saying she wants pans because she wants me to say, 'No, no, no, I'm getting you a day at the spa instead.' Or maybe she just knows we need pans but if I buy the pans she's just going to act like a martyr about it. Even if she wants pans, admitting I bought pans for my wife for Mother's Day is going to make me look like a royal ass."

I bought the pans myself. I really REALLY wanted them. No mind games intended.

Look at them! They are beautiful and they are just drying by the sink.
And they are heaven to cook with. I'm so happy about the pans.

I've picked on Bruce a little about Mother's Day, so I have to say this: I'd venture to guess that the majority of my regular days are better than the Mother's Day of many others. I have a good life, good kids, and a great husband. I feel really lucky because my life is very close to the one that I hoped for myself, and that's the best gift.