“What should we do for Mother’s Day?”

When my husband asked our three children what they should all do for me to celebrate Mother’s Day tomorrow, my oldest replied without hesitation, “Let her sleep in.”

That’s 12 years of experience. He’s quite observant.

For those of you who no longer have your moms around, I am sorry for your loss. Moms tend to take care of you, drive you nuts, get too involved or not involved enough, never stop loving you, and through it all…leave an indescribable imprint.

I guarantee that 20 years from now, my children will remember me as a mom who tried to be funny all of the time, but was only funny a fraction of the time. A mom who spoke up for what she thought was right, even though sometimes she wasn’t. A mom who preached about the importance of eating healthy and exercising, while enjoying dinner as a family in one of many sports bar booths.

“Do as I say, not as I do.” Mom’s personal motto.

Most importantly, I want them to know without any doubt that no one will ever hold a bigger piece of my heart as they do. Even when they argue about stupid things like the color of mirror glass…for a half hour straight.

Sure, I’ll take the middle seat. Always.

Owen posing next to a tiny tree we planted last year in our front yard.

Austin next to the same tree. I didn’t know if that little sapling would survive its first year.

Not only has that little tree survived, it has thrived. So have my children. For this reason, and so many others, I am truly blessed this Mother’s Day.

Written by Heidi Woodard.