Why do we celebrate Mother’s Day? I was thinking about this question the other day. I mean, it’s obvious that mothers should be celebrated. Whether they work at home, out of the home, stay at home, whatever–I think we can all agree that we work hard. When you think about the fact that we’re always on call and that we’re basically paid in hugs and kisses it’s a shock that there’s only one day to celebrate how incredible we are. Also, yes, the same goes for fathers but that’s not what this post is about, okay, so just calm yourselves.

why celebrate Mother’s Day? my thoughts–

The first reason I celebrate Mother’s Day is my first baby; the one that was called home too soon. This sweet spirit taught me that my Heavenly Father knows who I am and he placed all of my children–no matter how long they are entrusted to my care–in my life for a reason.

| Read: When December 22 Rolls Around: My Miscarriage Story |

The second reason I celebrate Mother’s Day is my first born–my son. Over the past eight years my son has taught me to trust my instincts. He has also taught me that I am the best advocate for my children. Only I know what’s best for them. So, I need to stand firm in my convictions and stick up for them when no one else will.

what my girls have taught me

The third reason I celebrate Mother’s Day is my first daughter–my little mini me. She has taught me that kindness is the best choice. The phrase, “honey catches more flies than vinegar” comes to mind when I think about parenting her. Kindness, patience, love, all of these attributes do so much more good than a harsh word.

| Read: How to Get Your Baby to Sleep Through the Night |

The fourth reason I celebrate Mother’s Day is my second daughter. The little ham in the family, she has taught me that you can always find joy if you know where to look. She has also taught me that if all else fails you can create your own joy. She believes that it’s just as easy to smile about a situation as it is to frown about it. That is how I want to live my life.

The fifth reason I celebrate Mother’s Day is my third daughter. This sweet little spitfire is stubborn and strong willed. She has taught me that I need to be the person that I want my children to be. Actions speak louder than words and children can be the best imitators–give them something good to imitate.

| Read: Funny Quotes About Motherhood |

The sixth reason I celebrate Mother’s Day is my fourth daughter, little baby sister of the family. In the short three months since she has joined our family I have learned that I can do hard things. I thought I knew this before. However, being so strongly outnumbered everyday has made me realize that I’m stronger than I know.

my husband is also why I celebrate Mother’s Day

The seventh reason that I celebrate Mother’s Day is my husband. He truly is my better half and my best friend. Without him I wouldn’t even be a mother. At the very least I wouldn’t be a mother to these little individuals that I have the privilege of raising and calling mine.

| Read: Marriage Advice from 15 Years of Marriage |

So yes, I’ll take a massage and breakfast in bed, some jewelry and flowers wouldn’t hurt either. However, this year I’ve decided to focus on all the joyful reasons that this holiday exists. For me there are seven.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner I’ve teamed up with some other mom bloggers. We’re all sharing a little piece of our hearts today. Be sure to click over and check them out!

Sierra @ Beautifully Candid

Bethany @ Waves & Lilacs

Mary Leigh @ Live Well Play Together

Whitney @ Work It Mommy

Shani @ Sunshine & Munchkins

Katie @ Thrifty Wife Happy Life

Tamara @ Tamara Bratton Blog

Newborn Photography in this post is courtesy of Shelby Mousley Photography.

Lifestyle family shot is courtesy of Ivory Dog Films.