The weeds aren't the only thing growing at my house

It's true! I am a professional weed grower. I have knowledge and expertise that far surpass my age that I never had to go to college for, or even trade school for that matter. I would have to say it's a very natural gift that has manifested through years and years of training (and not very hard work by the way).

I have pondered the idea of going into business for said profession as I know how good I am at it and figure why not get paid for something you are good at right? Okay, well maybe "weed growing" might not be as dignified of a profession as landscaper, but I could just think of it as a backwards landscaper - so to speak. My tag line could be "I'll help you grow it where you don't want it." Huh -what do you think?

Alright, I guess I must think realistically. I have been known to be a great cook/baker, and I have been known to be an incredible maid. I've also been known to be a fabulous nurse when boo-boo's need tending to, and a superb seamstress when that blankey that's been loved way too much on one seam needs a little tending to (and don't forget quilter extraordinaire too). Let's not forget amateur photographer for all those family occasions, and oh, oh, defensive driving master ~ when you must dig through purse to find a tissue for said child in the back who's just sneezed a green/yellow Niagara Falls all down his face while dodging cars going 60 on the freeway!

I am a MOM, a professional MOM! And there is nothing more rewarding to me (weed growing might be a close second) than being a MOM. Oh sure, I don't often (okay never) get a "thank you mom for helping me see the error in my ways and for the discipline & punishment you have granted me, that will help me become a better person." Or "thank you mom for making sure that I have clean clothes to exit the house in so I might present myself to others in a dignified way." Even a "bless you mother for cleaning up my vomit on my bed of which I was not quick enough to make it to the bathroom to dispose of it properly!" Ugggh!

BUT, yesterday was my oldest sons 15th birthday, and while I was saying good-night to him last night I asked him if he had a good day (lunch out, weight bench for present, cash from grandparents) he said to me, "yeah mom I did, and thank you so much for everything! It was great!" You see, I'm not sure how it is with girls yet, but I can say I am so far qualified as a professional mom of boys and as they grow older (emphasis on grow as they are the ones who have grown recently at my house) those "snuggle bear moments" are fewer and farther between. My 15 yr. old is 5'10", 135lb and doesn't quite fit into my lap anymore (it would be the other way around now). When he hugs me my nose isn't that far off from being in his armpit. Yet when this big young man, with a deep voice and shaven face tenderly looks me in the eye and says "thanks mom, and I love you", well I don't need to be a professional at anything else, cause I'm home!!!

Happy 15th Birthday D!!!