Father's Day 2014! Special Edition with Real Dad Submissions

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Today we celebrate the fathers, father figures and special men in our lives. The guys who seem like giants when we're little - all big hands and broad shoulders. The fellows who learn how to balance horseplay, straight talk and tenderness as we grow. Whether soft spoken, slick talking or the strong, silent type, Dads are there to encourage and teach the wisdom we'll need to be our best. Far too often dedicated dads get the short end of the stick. If moms are seen as martyrs, applauded for the merits of the best among us; active, engaged and loving fathers are often overlooked, and lumped in with the guys who have created a life, but have never been around to nurture or protect it. 

I am thankful for a father who is my kindred spirit. He's a spiritually centered, music-loving romantic.  A student of metaphysics, bohemian bookworm and eloquent charmer. My Daddy has always been there for me. When I'm at my worst, a call from him whips me right back into shape and provides the perspective I need to keep on keeping on. 



On November 27, 2010 he gave me away to my husband, Marvin. Not only my lover and friend, Marvin is an amazingly kind and compassionate father to our two children. They love him to pieces and fatherhood has undoubtedly made him a better man. I also salute the men in my extended family; my uncles, grandfathers and family friends that offer an immeasurable amount of love and guidance - not only as father figures to me, but to my kids as well. 
We Love You All!


Once again this year, in honor of Father's Day, I have invited men to write about their experiences and how their children have impacted their lives. I hope to continue working with fathers as guest bloggers, so Dads, if what you read in this post inspires you to pen something of your own please send it to mommymorphosis@gmail.com 

Rob Griggs (34 years old. Cancer LOL) Chicago, IL

Business Consultant, President and Founder of For Husbands Only (@ForHusbandsOnly, forhusbandsonly.com)

Married  (5 Years) with 2 year old Triplets.

Best Part of Being a Dad: 

The best part is the positive influence that I’m having on a person’s life.  When I see my kids sing a song I taught them or play a game that we learned together, it makes me feel proud.  Also, there’s no greater feeling then when you hit the door and your kids run to you and let you know they missed you.

The Frustrating Part: 

The toughest part about being a Dad is that people are shocked that a man knows how to take care of his kids. Or that we know intimate details about our children. This should not be a surprise. A lot of times I feel like I’m proving that I know my kids to people when I really shouldn’t have to.

What Have I Learned

I’ve learned that you are stronger than you think. When you have a child and they need something, you don’t think about how tired you are, or what you need or what you have to do…you just take care of their needs.  Before we moved to our current home, my wife and I lived on the 3^rd floor. Our washing machine was broken and we used my parents’. I would carry the 3 babies up and down the stairs, with 3-4 loads of clothes and never thought twice about it. It was just what we had to do. Could I do that now?!? Probably not…because I no longer have to.

I strive to be a Father that is involved in my kids’ lives. I want to know my kids’ favorite cartoon character, their friends, and their favorite TV shows. But I don’t want to be their friend. They’ll have enough of those…but they’ll only have one Father. Hopefully, my kids can talk to me about those things that scare them or confuse so I can give them solid advice.  But I’m a very involved father now. I’m pretty good at anticipating my children’s needs. And I learned very early, each kid is different and must be treated differently. That takes more work, but it’s definitely more effective.

Here’s a pic of me and the chipmunks. This is about a year old, but it’s one of my favorites.

My kids, if they could talk, would describe me as a fun Dad, who’s fair, but understanding. They know I will answer any question and take the time necessary to address their concerns or fears.

Anthony L Davis, 35

Real estate agent and investor with Zion Capital Investments, LLC. My goal is to renovate properties for resale and rent, allowing me the time and resources to be a blessing to my family, church and community. In addition to my role as leader of our church youth group, I serve on a community improvement board, enjoy international travel and attending various sport events. 

Family description: 

 I am married to my wonderful wife, Alisa and we have two beautiful children, Jonathan (7) and Alana (20 months). 

Best part of being a Dad: 

The best part of being a dad is the love generated from my children, particularly seeing the absence of fathers active in our communities. There is a genuine sense that they not only want me around, but that they need me in their lives. 

                                                        
Most scary, surprising, difficult, frustrating part: 
The scariest part of being a dad is the fact of having children in an increasingly dangerous and treacherous world and the fact that I cannot completely shield them from perils out of my control or beyond my supervision. The most surprising part of being a dad is that I don’t get nearly as grossed out with my kids bodily fluids as I thought I would before becoming a parent. The most difficult thing is that although my wife and I diligently invest in raising them a certain way and contributing to their success, our children are not robots and make decisions that we often are not desirous of. That also is the most frustrating part. 

What you've learned about life, love or yourself since becoming a father?: 
Being married and a parent are the two most unselfish things I've ever experienced in life. I think that most men are pretty selfish by nature, but having others depend on your time, consistency and interaction can be a challenge at times. I've learned that life is not just about personal achievement or adventure, but building something significant with the ones you love. It may not make for the most interesting stories to share with the fellas, but it’s what’s necessary to have long-term and substantial success. Men must learn to settle down and build legacy. Being a father has expanded my patience to levels unknown and even undesired. Nevertheless, I've become a better person and my relationship with God has changed in that I see through my children how God must feel about me.

Your role in the family, how do you fit in?: 

My role in the family is that of a decisive decision-maker and spiritual priest for my household. This took time, as I needed to quickly mature at the beginning of my marriage and fatherhood to properly assume the task at hand. I strive to be everything my father was and even a few things that he wasn't. That said, my father was hard-working and a spiritual rock, but wasn't as available from an interaction standpoint as I would've liked. I want to address that deficiency in my relationship with my children. 

How would your children describe you?: 

My children would describe me as a fun, protective and kind father.

Edward Kirkland is a buddy of mine from my undergraduate days at Spelman College. He's a brilliant educator and Facebook funny guy who tickles his friends and followers with thoughtful and hilarious updates. The newlywed Morehouse man is not yet a father, but posted some jewels about his own Father. They were so entertaining and heartwarming that I had to share. 

"Because when people complain about how they grew up "without" , I can't relate.
#HFD (Happy Father's Day)

  

Because when you retired from work, you walked me to elementary school every day, and was there waiting when I got dismissed, every day. 
#HFD

Because growing up, I never wanted for ANYTHING. Well, except that Nintendo glove thing. But I'm over it. Kinda.
#HFD

Because you worked hard as hell, just so I could watch The Cosby Show and think, "oh shit, that's us."
#HFD

Because all those epic whoopings we got as kids were followed up with explanations and hugs. #HFD

For all the times you handed me a little cash back in the day, followed up with a good 'ole 'don't tell your mother'."
#HFD

Kevin L. Swan - 38
God loving happily married Morehouse father.  

Your life's work:  

I am a financial advisor who loves to educate.  When I started my career, I did a lot of work with educators.  Working indirectly in education, it exposed me to the need for positive man of color to come and talk with the students.  From that exposure, I volunteered in the different school systems throughout the Chicagoland area.  Tutoring in math and being involved with different mentoring programs, has allowed me to pass financial education to the students at a younger age.  Financial education is lacking in the education system, so I became JA Achievement volunteer.  I actually go into the classrooms, and teach the economics course or have financial discussion with the students.  I salute the teachers of these schools, the most underpaid/under-recognized profession. 

I love spending time with family, traveling, reading, mining, gardening, and a lot of other things.  I like to do THINGS.

Family description: 

I have been happily married for almost 11 years to Yolanda Swan (McCullough) and I thank God for my Queen.  We have a four year old son, and our second son was just born.  A great Father’s Day gift.

Best part of being a Dad: 

Seeing yourself in your children

Most scary, surprising, difficult, frustrating part: 

I was surprised at how natural the instincts came, when we had our first one. 

How becoming a parent has changed you?  

When I became a father, I instantly knew that it was not about me anymore.   If everyone could apply that as a principle in his or her life, the world would be a better place.

What kind of Father you strive to be, etc?

 A role model, because I have one.  My father is a father to so many other people.  A Great Man, if I could be a tenth of what he is, I will have done well.

How would your children describe you?

 Not from this planet

Ugo Nwokolo

My name is Ugo from the House of Nwokolo. Husband to Funmi and Father to Ronke, Kosi and Ugo. This is my 6th Father's Day. 

Here are some things I have learnt along the way.
   

It doesn’t matter what Daddy does at work. All they know is that he leaves and they are happy he comes back.

Each kid responds differently to your individual attention.  Especially girls. The way  my Kosi responds to me while we are alone is really different when she is fighting with her sister for my attention. 

Parenting is great but our American culture seems to make it more important than the marriage. Not good.

 After 3 kids, you almost feel like you are standing back to back with your spouse trying to manage the household. 

You need to turn and face each other.  A glowing healthy marriage is such an important lesson for your kids to see. 

The thing that I fear about is the Big mistake. I think every parent does it. They do or say something to their kid that sort of messes them up.

 It could be an innocuous  statement of what kind of work ethic we expect  or something said in anger that sears in their souls.  

My words and actions are so powerful to how these children grow up. 

The older my kids gets, the more I need to provide a structure that they need to model.  I am the archetype that they need to build on. 
 

You want neat kids. Get neat. Your kids are your mirror. Model that behavior that you want.

I am a Father.  I am not a replaceable part of my family. I am integral.  We are a big deal.  Like Larry Winget said, Our kids are our own damn fault.  They are also our own great joy. 

Rayy Horton is a 41 year old graphic designer, from New Jersey currently residing in Atlanta, GA. Rayy participated in this project last year. Today I'm sharing a loving sentiment he received from his teenage daughter. You're doing something right Rayy!

 

Stephen Llorens, 36

I am a writer. Mostly screenplays, but looking to get into print. My hobbies include sleeping and sitting still and not doing anything. I cherish the twenty minutes a day I get to indulge in my hobbies.

My family consists of me, my better half, and our two children Zoey and Malachi. 

The best part of being a dad is hearing my daughter refer to me as “daddy,” even though it is often followed by “can I have” or “I was thinking maybe you could” or “I’d like” or “make me some”. My son doesn't speak yet, but I love holding him in the morning while he smiles and moves and says things I don’t understand but can feel.

Nothing’s scary about it, but the most frustrating part is making judgment mistakes. Each time I've done something I wish my parents hadn't said/ done to me, I've gotten frustrated with myself.

Parenthood has changed me almost completely, and I learn more about myself every day by watching my children and witnessing my reactions to things they do.

My role in the family is the cook. I cook most of the meals. That’s probably the only thing I do that their mother doesn't (as often). I strive to be the kind of father i am: willing to change, malleable, and open.

My son would probably describe me as that guy who holds him in front of the mirror and smiles with his eyes. My daughter would describe me as the guy who makes her breakfast and lets her watch TV in his room. I would describe them as my favorite two people in the world.  Stephen and his son Malachi share the same birthday!

Wess Walters 36 

Creative Director at www.marketingmassive.com
A lover of life, people and all the joys wealth brings. 

Hobbies:
Roller blading, snorkeling and quiet Wess time. 

Family description: Single dad

Best part of being a dad: 
Watching your kids grow. 

Most scary, surprising, difficult, frustrating part: So little time.

What you've learned about life, love or yourself since becoming a father? 

One word-PATIENCE 

What kind of Father you strive to be, etc?

I'm the leader and the kids are the troopers on the team.  I try to be a perfect mixture of Malcolm X, Bruce Lee, and Cliff Huxtable. I strive to be like the image of Malcolm X, with the discipline of Bruce Lee with the humor, compassion and the ability to express love like Mr. Huxtable. 

How would your children describe you? "The coolest dad ever!"

What I've learned over the year [Wess contributed in 2013 as well] is that if I chase the money, it will forever be elusive. If I chase the dream, the money and time with the kids will be automatic. 

Combat Christmas Consumerism - 3 Ways To Remember The Reason For The Season

The holiday season is here, whether you're ready or not. Less than one month ago friends and family gathered around tables, shared delicious meals and gave thanks for all the good in our lives. Exactly 24 hours later gratitude gave way to "getititude" as scores of shoppers swarmed and scrambled to grab bargains on Black Friday. The season of comfort and joy has become more about flat screen televisions and hard to find toys.

Last year I blogged about my own child's sense of Christmas entitlement. http://mommymorphosis.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-christmas-spirit-of-sharing-and.html 

This year our family has worked hard to counteract consumerism and instead teach virtues of true holiday spirit. While I want my little ones to enjoy the thrill of receiving gifts from their wish list; it's equally important for them to learn the magic of giving, creating traditions and being spiritually grounded. It's easy to get caught up in the commercial hoopla! Use these tips to add meaning to the most wonderful time of the year.


1. Celebrate The Joy Of Giving
We all look forward to the smiles that follow unwrapping beautiful boxes on Christmas morning (Hanukkah and Kwanzaa too)! We save, shop, sneak and stress to get our loved ones what they desire most. Hopefully as adults we've learned the joy of giving, as well as receiving. Plan activities that teach your little ones that sentiment. It's important for them to realize that other boys and girls may be going without. Find a local toy drive, group home, or church collecting items for the less fortunate. Donate toys, books and clothing that can be a blessing to those who desperately need a bit of holiday cheer. If finances are tight give your time. Join a group that sings carols at nursing homes or spend an afternoon volunteering at a local shelter. Be the gift!



2. Create Family Traditions Together
Fellowship, family, laughter and love - these are life's most special gifts. Make the season mean so much more by creating traditions with your children. Craft homemade ornaments or cards, bake cookies for your neighbors, attend a performance of the Nutcracker, see a holiday concert, go ice skating, host a Christmas Eve potluck, etc. Give your family something to look forward to each year that's invaluable, immaterial and doesn't require batteries.




3. Teach The Reason For The Season

Focus on your faith. Why and what do you believe? As busy adults we sometimes take for granted the spiritual lessons imparted by our elders. Teach your children the essence of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Make it fun! Take part of special activities in your place of worship. Pick out a couple of new books. Put on a play or puppet show to perform for loved ones visiting from out of state. Although Santa has become a prominent figure, remind your children the star atop your tree does not shine in celebration of dear old St. Nick.

7 Super Sized Life Lessons From Our Favorite Superheroes!

As a little girl I spent most of my time playing with Cabbage Patch dolls or with my nose pressed between the pages of a Babysitter's Club book. Sure, He-Man and She-Ra were on my radar, but I was nowhere near the superhero aficionado that my 1st grader is. When your child develops a healthy interest in something its only natural that you dig in too. Comic book buffs aren't the only ones getting caught up in fantastic feats and fearless heroics. The cinematic success of classic characters have taken Marvel and DC Comics mainstream. Now larger than life superheroes are everyone's latest obsession. Not only is my six year old son fascinated with the super human icons, but my baby girl and the whole family have been sucked in by the brave men and women who save the day with style and sass!

We catch summer blockbusters, add trilogies to our DVD collection, order life size wall stickers for Nigel's room and plan fun hero themed Halloween costumes and birthday parties. I've found this superhero stuff has a little more to it than custom capes, evil villains and impressive gadgets. Beyond their incredible strength, speed and epic awesomeness are lessons that can build your child's character and confidence. Some of our family's favorite superheroes teach the young and young at heart about courage, commitment, justice and more.

Spider Man aka Peter Parker 

By day Peter is an unassuming, geeky tween with a penchant for photography and Mary Jane, but thanks to a radioactive spider bite he's a web slinging, wall scaling, local crime fighter.

The Lesson: Say it with me ... With great power comes great responsibility. Peter has learned the hard way that when power goes to his head, he loses sight of what's most important. He's lost loved ones along the way and though it hasn't been easy, he understands that he can be a benefit to his community. Through hardships and grief we must always press on and and remember that our gifts are to be used to make the world a better place.

The X-Men

Led by the omniscient Professor Xavier, this motley crew of mutants use awe inspiring abilities to protect the world from evil doers in and outside of their ranks.

The Lesson: Being unique is incredible - not awkward. If you're struggling find a mentor that nurtures your talents and helps you realize that despite how much people misunderstand you - you are perfectly made. Storm, Wolverine, Magneto, Rogue, and scores of teenage X-Men outcasts have personal pains and individual journies. The storylines explore alienation and prejudice, and they show their audience the devastation of fear mongering. Most importantly, X-Men teach fans that being different is to be celebrated.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

What's old is new again and now my children can enjoy these characters that I thought were pretty cool back in the day. I'm not the only one who still knows the theme song by heart, right? "They're the world's most fearsome fighting team; they're heroes in a half shell and they're green!" Evil Shredder is still around and so is the support of their adoptive dad, Splinter. Who'd have thought a human sized rat could be so lovable!? These turtle brothers use their martial art skills to mix it up with bad guys.

The Lesson: Family sticks together no matter our differences. Each of the teenage brothers have unique strengths and weaknesses. They never go about things the same way, but when in a pinch they always look out for one another. TMNT have each other's back and the support of their doting Dad. Ultimately, their best chance to defeat vicious enemies is with teamwork

*The Incredibles also teach a similar lesson.

Thor aka Thor Odinson, Prince of Asgar 

The God of Thunder and Lightning, Thor, is hunky in a Nordic Viking kind of way. He wields one of the greatest weapons ever made, the enchanted hammer Mjolnir. The Asgardian warrior is trained in the arts of battle, has immense fighting ability, super strength and scant vulnerabilities. In fact, Thor' s greatest weakness is his arrogance, part of the reason he was exiled to Earth to learn lessons in humility.

The Lesson: While on Earth, Thor is stripped of many of his powers. He is served a hefty piece of humble pie, but gains an appreciation for humanity and the simple sentiments we hold dear. The value in his story is the reminder that even the mightiest among us have room for development,  and the strongest have a duty to defend the weak. Before you can lead others, you must first learn how to lead yourself.

Wonder Woman aka Diana Prince

Possibly the most famous superheroine, Wonder Woman is a warrior princess who put unconventional fierce, savvy women on the comic book map.

She's a champion for gender equality. Plus, no one could tell me that the Lasso of Truth isn't one of the coolest superhero weapons ever created.

The Lesson: All you need is love.  She's as powerful as they come, but she has a special weapon for helping villains reform: compassion. "With it's great gift, I can change human character; I can make bad men good and weak women strong."

Iron Man aka Tony Stark 

We meet Tony Stark as a brilliant businessman known

as much for his playboy lifestyle and non existent moral compass as his technological innovations. After a near death experience with a weapon he designed he quite literally has a change of heart. Tony begins to see that he can contribute more to the world if he keeps his flair, but abandons some of his selfish ideologies.

The Lesson: Once Tony Stark becomes Iron Man we witness him evolve from a self consumed egomaniac into a philanthropist ready to champion for justice. Talk about letting that light inside of you shine!  We can be redeemed. It's never too late to become a person who cares more about others than he does himself. As an added bonus we see that scientists can be as cool as rockstars and lead pretty exciting lives!

The Green Lantern aka Hal Jordan 

Bad boy fighter pilot Hal Jordan always pushes the envelope. He abhors authority and lives on the edge, but still can't shake the bit of fear that holds him back from his true potential and sours his relationships. Once the power ring selects him as the first human in history to join Green Lantern Corps, our reluctant hero goes on to do great things for the good of the universe.

The Lesson: Whatever Green Lantern creates with his mind's eye, becomes reality. As a person who believes strongly in New Thought faith principles, I can relate to the theme that our thoughts give us ultimate power. Hal begins to visualize the solutions to his problems, internalize his capabilities and believe that he can turn figments of his imagination into fruition. The larger lesson is that our divine will is always strong enough to defeat our fears.

Superheroes are an inspiration to transcend our mortal limitations and become exceptional. Their adventures are sensational stories with more to teach than what's on the surface. Enjoy the thrills and have fun on the road to becoming a super YOU! Nigel and I wrote a little poem about it. Wanna hear it? Here it go!

Commit To "Me Time" - 6 Ways To Make Time For You!

As CEO of your home you have an endless list of responsibilities and obligations. At work you and your spouse juggle client meetings, work travel and can't-miss deadlines. Your child's schedule is bursting with projects and activities. The hustle and bustle just doesn't stop, leaving most of us in dire need of a little personal time.

Since having children I've worked between 20-40 hours a week, spent 3 years as a full-time graduate student and completed a year long internship. I assumed that my most recent stint as a stay-at-home mom would provide an opportunity to do all the things I was previously too busy for. My experience has been quite the opposite. There's always something to do at home, an appointment or errand, homework to review, meals to plan, etc. People may assume I having an easy go of it (cue the soap opera and bonbon stereotype) when in reality my days fly by faster than ever with hardly any time alone. The expectation is that stay-at-home parents have all day to themselves, but realistically we've been dodging telemarketers, taming tantrums, in the kitchen or shuttling kids in the car all day. Working hard to keep my family healthy, happy and high functioning isn't a complaint. As an adult I recognize we all have duties to fulfill and sacrifices to make. Whether you are a working professional or full-time homemaker, it's often hard to prioritize even just a sliver of time for the things we WANT to do instead of NEED to do. Making time to relax and recharge can relieve stress, improve your interactions at work and home, positively impact your physical and mental health and help you sleep better at night. But how do you find the time?

1. Become an early bird
When I go to bed exhausted the last thing I want to think about is waking up an hour early. However, if you're desperate for a little peace and quiet one of the easiest ways to get some solitude is to rise a bit earlier that the rest of your household. Set your alarm for 5:30 or 6 am. Use the stillness of dawn to meditate, deep breathe and start your day with positive affirmations. Stretch, take a run or do a little yoga. Make a cup of coffee or tea and grab fresh air on your porch or balcony. Starting your morning with peace and balance may allow you to carry those feelings throughout your day.


2. Give yourself a gift card
Lack of time can keep us from doing the fun stuff we enjoy, but sometimes it's a lack of funds that prevents us from taking advantage of an opportunity. Be prepared when the free moment presents itself. Once a month buy yourself a $50 gift card to your favorite spa, retailer or restaurant. When you see a great Groupon deal buy it! That way when you have a sitter or a free Sunday afternoon you won't have to worry about blowing your budget.


3. Standing salon appointments

Going to your hairstylist or favorite manicurist doesn't have to be a single girl luxury. If you patronize a popular salon scheduling can already be a headache; couple that with tying down a sitter for Saturday morning and you could find yourself struggling to get serviced every two weeks. Talk to your spouse, babysitter or extended family about committing to a regular time (preferably a weekday) when they can keep the little ones busy while you're getting beautified. Maybe your neighbor takes the boys to soccer practice every other Tuesday afternoon. Or, Dad does breakfast and school drop every Friday so you can keep your 8:00 am standing appointment. When you look good, you feel good. Don't deny yourself the simple pleasure of a little pampering.

4. Find a gym with childcare
I dream of a life where I hit the gym twice a day and get back to my pre-baby body in no time, but two and a half years later I'm still carrying a bit of belly bulge. I thought putting my career on pause would leave lots of time to focus on my physical health. Having to find childcare during workouts has been a hindrance (and an excuse), but there are ways to fit in fitness. Lots of people have success using DVDs at home or taking jogging strollers on their runs. I encourage readers to explore these options, but I've tried and they're not for me. I enjoy exercising in a gym - taking classes, using the sauna, access to a trainer etc. Now lots of facilities offer free on-site childcare for members. Do some research online, find a gym in your area and give it a try. Of course, take you and your child's level of comfort into account. If they're not used to the setting start off with a short workout and increase the length as you both become regulars. If you have older children try to schedule separate classes that meet at the same time. That way being active becomes a family affair, but you each have solo time to exercise and socialize with peers.

5. Buy tickets in advance

Keep up with your favorite performer on tour, sports team or production at the local theater. Professionals may take for granted the benefits of mental stimulation and grown up experiences. But, full time parents know what they're missing. There's only so much Veggie Tales and Barney one person can take. Consult with friends and buy tickets to a event well in advance so it can go on the family calendar right next to all the other activities.


6. Take a class
I'm raising my children to be lifetime learners. What better way to practice what you preach than by beefing up your resume or adding to your skill set with a class or workshop? Sure you could use free time to take in a movie or visit old friends, but enrolling in a new field of study is just as rewarding. Again, you have the benefit of a schedule to aid in planning for regular childcare. Classmates and instructors can become a part of your network, or even new friends. The intellectual and creative activity will be a great joy, and your family will think it's cool seeing Mom or Dad as a student. You'll enjoy having something fresh to share at the dinner table.

2013's Best Mother's Day Memes and More

"The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new." Rajneesh

Mommy-Morphosis celebrates motherhood daily, but I couldn't let our special day pass without a special post! Motherhood is a journey and we all do it differently. On Mother's Day not only am I eternally grateful for my own loving Mommy and Grandmas, but also thankful for my little ones. Having children changed my life and they are honestly the best thing to ever happen to me. For every mother/child relationship there are unique joys and (labor) pains, but we all want one thing - to make sure our children grow up to be healthy, happy and wise individuals. It's the only job in the world where, when done right, there are no days off. Here's to all of us who put in the love and hard work 365 days a year!

I've collected  my favorite quotes and images floating around the web this Mother's Day. Enjoy, have a laugh and give yourselves a pat on the back for a job well done.

1. We're pretty amazing right?

2. Not a fair trade, but it's worth it.

3. Don't mind if I do. #1 on next year's gift wish list.

4. A pretty succinct job description :-)

5. Shhhh, your secret's safe with me.

6. Celebrate Mom whether near or far.

7. If you made it through the day without hearing any of these questions you aren't playing fair.

8. Not sure if I'm qualified for this position...

9. It's about choices. Everyday. And we all mess it up sometimes ...

10. Get off the computer and call your Momma!

*Disclaimer - I did not create any of the above images. The words in the pictures are not my own, only the captions. Y'all know how the internet works... I couldn't find the original sources if I tried. Whoever the creators are we thank you!