With the Thanksgiving holiday just around the corner, I have been thinking a lot about all of the things I am most thankful for. Number one on that list is my children (shocker, I know). Although I could come up with an infinite number of reasons why I’m so thankful to be their mom, there are 5 reasons that instantly come to mind.

1. I get to be a kid again!
Becoming a mom has given me the opportunity to see the world through my children’s eyes. First experiences are always so exciting to witness firsthand. You have the first birthdays, first holidays, first time in the snow, among so many others. They all become so much more fun when I get to see the excitement on my daughters’ faces. I also have to admit the fact that I love having a legit excuse to watch children’s movies, read endless amounts of children’s books, and play with their toys and games. Oh Candy Land and Hungry, Hungry, Hippos, how I’ve missed you! Go Fish? Don’t mind if I do! Coloring books and crayons? Yes please!

2. They challenge me.
I know this sounds negative, but it’s really quite the opposite. My girls make me want to be a better human being. More patient, more kind, more loving, more forgiving. I constantly strive to be a good role model for them and someone they will always be proud to call their mom.

3. The music.
I now have an excuse to sing my heart out for an audience (okay, my kids) who think my voice is comparable to that of Lady Gaga’s (nothing could be farther from the truth). I love to sing with, and for, my kids. Now Caroline has begun making up her own silly songs and singing them to me. And when we’re not busy singing songs, we’re throwing some pretty kick-ass dance parties right in the comfort of our living room.

4. Ample amounts of humor.
These daughters of mine can be quite the comedians, whether they realize it or not. I find myself constantly entertained by their stories, facial expressions, or one-liners. My 3-year-old constantly has me laughing out loud from the funny, and random, things she says.
(Me) You’re beautiful!
(Caroline) No I’m not!
(Me) Well, then what are you?
(Caroline) A ninja!

5. I now truly understand what unconditional love is.
My heart feels like it could just about burst from the abundance of love I have for my children. Not just any kind of love. The kind of love that you just can’t fathom unless you have children of your own. A love so powerful that it can actually give you superhuman strength if your children  are in need of protection. It’s the kind of love that warms you up from the inside out. It knows no limits or bounds. It’s a love that cannot be broken and will never, ever fade.