Dear Mom,

For every tear you wiped and every hand you held. For the times you rocked until your arms ached or paced until you wore paths in the carpet. For every bandaid you placed or knee you kissed. For every time you held, every time you picked up, every time you carried. For every time you worried, every time you wondered.

For every meal you cooked and bed you made. For every floor you scrubbed and sink you cleaned. For the noses you wiped and the hands you washed. For the snacks you provided, the cookies you baked, and the lunches you packed. For the errands you ran, the clothes you bought, the shoes you tied. For the laundry, oh for. the. laundry.

For every time you ate last, showered last, or drank cold coffee (again). For every time you put down your book or paused your show to listen to a story or answer a question. For every time you got up early or went to bed late just to get it all done. For every time your thoughts were interrupted. For every prayer you lifted. For every quiet moment that suddenly became loud.

For every soccer practice and ballet lesson. For every last minute science project or forgotten assignment. For every carpool line and for every school party. For every play date you organized and every sleepover you supervised. For staying up late to talk. For bedtime stories that never seem to end. For one last kiss. For one last hug. For always knowing how to get the blanket just right.

For all of it. We say thank you.

Love,

Your Children

Jessica McCauley, M.Ed. is a parenting coach/consultant. She draws on her background as a Montessori educator and Child Life Specialist to help families navigate the challenges of the early childhood years. Contact Jessica at http://smallhandsbigsteps.com/contact/ for more information or to schedule a consultation.