To my family:

Because it can never be said enough...

because today could be my last here on Earth...

because of what I've put you through, and how you continue to love me in spite of myself...

because you believed in me, even when I couldn't see past my own pain and pride...

because of the woman I've become, and how I owe it all to you...

because my heart's desire is to make you proud, not in my accomplishments or achievements, but in my character...I just wanted to tell you..

I love you.

My family is made up of those who have fought and prayed for me, who nurtured me, and who have done all they could to ensure that my happiness and security was of their upmost importance. Some are related by blood, and some are not, but the fierceness in the way they accept and love me is stronger than any bond one could imagine.

Thank you. I appreciate you and thank the Lord for you daily.

Mothers.

Today I went to Proflowers.com to order gifts for both of my moms for Mother's Day. When I was filling out the card that will be sent to my biological mom, I got a little teary-eyed. It wasn't anything super corny, I just told her how much I appreciated and loved her. It's funny how such a simple gesture can have so much meaning to one person. I can picture her face lighting up as she reads it. It makes me smile as well. Next, I ordered a gift for my foster mom. While I was writing my message to her, I really started to cry. I think that what I wrote to her was especially intimate and personal only because I said, in so many words, that when I was little I tried my hardest to be my own person, and now that I'm older, I've become more and more like her, and that I was truly honored and happy about that. I hope it'll help her to see how appreciated she is.

I think I know how I'll feel when I have children of my own and they tell me that they love me, honor me, and are grateful for my love and support of them. Do I show this to my parents every chance I get? Probably not. I take them for granted more often than I'd like to admit. It's something I know I need to change about myself. In the same instance, I don't tell God how much I love Him and appreciate Him as much as I should. I know that God, just like my parents, will never give up on me or stop loving me just because I don't show my gratitude. My place in His family won't be filled by someone else just because I don't spend time with Him when I can. How selfish I am. Thank goodness for the assurance of my position in families..here on Earth and in the Kingdom.

Both of my moms 'tolerate' one another because they have to. They're so different yet so much alike! I'm the one common denominator. Because of the environments I grew up in, which are so completely opposite of one another it's ridiculous, I've become a little bit like both of my mothers. Here's a quick look...

My biological mom has taught me how:
- it's okay to not be serious all the time
- laughing at nothing for hours is totally normal
- to praise, pray, and praise again
- to forgive yourself
- your past does not define you
- to smile, as it makes others do the same
- family is family, no matter if they're blood or not

My foster mom has taught me how:
- to honor your husband
- to take care of your household
- to think for yourself
- to make wise choices
- to have respect for others and their beliefs
- to be a woman of integrity
- family is family, no matter if they're blood or not

Both of my moms are praying moms. I know God had a plan for my life before I was even born. He gave me two moms that love me, support me, and who pray for me every single day of my life. I can't be more blessed. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of life and for allowing me to be a part of theirs.