Grit, Grace, Coffee, & Weights..

  Christina Cook Photography @christinacook_seniors www.christinacookphotography.com My dearest J, You are SIX years old today! How did that happen? Where did the time go? I remember snuggling you as a newborn and just being so amazed by your tiny little fingers, and big beautiful eyes. You were my first born, the amazing little girl that made me a mother. I was so not prepared for that! Over the years, you have been the one that has paved the way for this journey. For each thing I have taught you, you have taught me twice as much. Forever changing who I am as a mother, wife, sister, daughter, and friend. I remember feeling like a house the day we went to the hospital to be induced. No seriously, I was massive! You were super comfy and had decided to stay in there forever. I was so ready to meet you, but I was also so scared. I was worried that I would not be a good enough mother. That somehow, I would “mess” you up. Or even worse, that you would hate me. Yes, I know

Growing up, I was blessed to have several “bonus” moms in my life. These ladies were the friends of my own amazing mother. They each played their part in making me into the woman I am today. Some of them were only there for a short time, some a little longer. But they all taught me valuable life lessons. Things like; “You should only buy white bathroom towels. They won’t get stained, because you can bleach them.” They wiped my tears, calmed my fears, and filled that role anytime they were asked. Now that I have kids of my own; I have learned just how vital these bonus moms are in this journey of motherhood. Throughout my journey, my children have had many bonus moms. Due to the crazy chaos that is our lives, I have relied on these ladies more times than I can even count. At times, I am pretty sure my oldest spent more time with her bonus moms than she did me. Usually, because my youngest was in the hospital. These ladies stepped up to fill that void anytime they wer