Day 1

When I was a teenager my mom often complained  noted that mother's shouldn't get just one day a year - that we should be grateful all year long.  I have strived since then to always show gratitude to my mother for everything she does for me, but I know I often fall short.  Nothing has made me realize this more then being a mom myself.  Experiencing how hard parenting is, understanding what my own mother when through when I threw tantrums in public, and knowing always, through it all, I can count on her.

Today, the day before Mother's Day, I will begin my Year of Gratitude for my mom.  365 reasons I am thankful for this sweet woman.

Tonight, while taking a break from studying, I called my mom to make our plans for tomorrow.  She asked me how my homework was coming, and asked if my sinus infection was feeling any better.  She told me she just wanted to relax and take it easy tomorrow, and that for Mother's Day, my gift to her should be to "not worry about her an concentrate on studying".  Mommy, today I am thankful for your genuine selflessness.