Mother's Day

This mother’s day, I thought it was time to turn the focus of this blog away from cute kids and nifty crafts to highlight how much its author means to her family.  I have been in a relationship with Tina for nearly 12 years, almost half of my life.  Growing up with someone like that allows you to learn a lot about her, yourself and your relationship.  After years of accomplishments, missteps, disagreements and reconciliations, I thought I had learned all there was to know. 

Then everything changed.  

Bringing these two children into the world (and the trying times soon after their arrival) has caused a shift in our lives.   For Tina, life as a passionate, devoted teacher and fiancée has given way to a life as an even more passionate, devoted mother and wife.  With all of my experiences with this already-impressive lady, how could there still be room for surprise and wonder?  Yet, she continues to amaze me.  

She is utterly selfless, putting everyone else first every waking moment of the day.  Up before I am, she is soothing upset children and, at times, ushering them downstairs before they can wake me up.  She manages to juggle all of the responsibilities of motherhood while still having time to finish her Master’s degree.  And what’s more impressive is that she is not merely making it through the days…she is thriving.  There is no question in my mind that she was born to be a mom.

We joke that, if I were the parent at home, things would likely get done…just not done well.  For example, if I was home all day, I know I would be tempted to allow Sesame Street to take over the child rearing duties on a regular basis.  For Tina, however, keeping our children engaged and learning is most important.  She always finds creative ways to expose Mia and Ava to new sounds, words and textures. 

If I was home raising two toddlers on my own, I would pawn off the duties to my spouse as soon as they came home, taking a well-deserved break.  In her case, though, Tina will take care of me and the kids.  Dinner is always timed perfectly and all I need to do is give the kids a hug and put them in their high chairs.

As I am writing this, I am home alone with the kids.  Yes, they are napping quietly, but the place is a mess and I’ve accomplished nothing while they were awake.   Each time I get the chance to watch them on my own, I gain an even greater respect for my wife’s chosen profession.  I can honestly say that without Tina, nothing would be the same.

So, Happy Mother’s Day, Tina!  It has been absolutely incredible to watch you grow into a fantastic mother and wife.  I am unbelievably lucky to have someone in my life like you and I hope I can make you feel appreciated every day of the year.

Love,

Your Husband