I remember my own, back in 1988, when I was a brand new mom with a roly-poly four-month old little boy. During those early months, there are lots of special ‘firsts’ – first smile, first uninterrupted four hours of sleep, first tooth, etc…

New moms are tired, but they are also filled with joy in a way that just can’t be explained until motherhood is experienced firsthand. So when that first Mother’s Day rolls around, new moms everywhere truly do feel like a new member of a special club.

And it is.

For the next eighteen years (and, ladies, that’s a minimum, from what I’m told), this child is yours to lead, to enjoy, to guide, to laugh with, to instruct, to correct, to cajole…

It is the hardest job…but it pays the highest dividends.

It is the least thankful job….but it is the most fulfilling.

It is the one job that allows for zero vacation days…but it is the place where you feel most at home.

This year it was my sister-in-law’s turn to experience her first Mother’s Day. I know the day was bittersweet for her because it was also the first Mother’s Day without her own mom, who lost a battle with cancer this past November.

Robyn, in honor of all that has come into your life, and in memory of what once was, here’s a poem I found. I want you to know that we love you immensely and are so happy that you’re a part of our family!

Tomorrow and A Day

“Mom, I have a boo boo,
Could you kiss it, make it well?
I tried to ride my new bike
but I crashed it then I fell.”

I will kiss your pain away.
I will dry your little tears.
I will rock you in the cradle.
I will soothe away your fears.

“Mom, is that my baby sister?
Do you still love me too?
Can you fix my broken teddy?
Can we paint my bedroom blue?”

I will love you till tomorrow.
For tomorrow’s never end.
I will fix a heart that’s broken
and I promise it will mend.

“Mom is Santa Claus a real man?
Can you take my sister back?
When will Dad be home from work?
May I have another snack?”

I will tell you about Jesus
and the gifts he brought to you.
One of them is little sister
and we’ll eat with Dad at two.

“Mom, how does a firefly glow
like the color of the moon?
Can we go to the playground?
Can we buy a red balloon?”

I can’t give you all the answers
but I’ll try my best to be
loving, caring, and forgiving
as I hope you’ll be with me.

“Mom, why do bad things happen?
Is God mad at you and me?
Mom, will you always love me
even when I’m sixty three?”

If you’re feeling overwhelmed
get down on your knees and pray
and remember that you’re loved
till tomorrow and a day…

Happy first Mother’s Day, Robyn!