This special lady and I had a conversation recently about mothers being in photos. When she was looking for a picture of herself and her kids when they were younger, there were hardly any to choose from. Tons of the kids with other family members, while Mom was behind the camera. But few of her with her babies. In this age of selfies, and with the incredible technology available to us, we all have the opportunity to get in the photo. So, to all the mamas out there: get in that picture! Ask someone else to take it, or flip that camera around and take the good ol’ selfie.

I’m honored to share this #motherhoodmademe story, written by my mother-in-love, Lori. She gave her heart and soul to her own children, and she continues to do so now, as Nanni to her three grandsons.

Here is Lori’s story:

How do you sum up how "Motherhood Made Me" after a lifetime of experiences? Actually, that very title says it all for me: motherhood made me. I was a young wife/mother - getting married (to my wonderful hubby, John) at the age of 20, and having my first child, my beautiful daughter, Jennifer at the age of 22. When Jennifer was born, I had not experienced a lot of life, and I learned about being responsible for another HUMAN as I went along. I was so very fortunate to have my wonderful mom, and all her mom experience, to help guide me through this amazing journey. Four years after Jennifer was born, we were blessed with the birth of our precious son, Westley. I could not believe I was a mom of two children, children that I would give my life for!! It is so funny that until you become a mom, you experience love in many different ways- you love your parents, your siblings, your family, your spouse, but motherly love is another animal altogether! Motherhood made me see life through a different set of eyes - the eyes of a MOM! I never realized how these little people could make me so fiercely protective, so happy, so proud, so mad, so darn tired and so full of love. I have loved every minute (some more than others) of being a mom, and now a Nanni.

My life is, and has always been, about my "kids", and now my grandkids as well. And I hope I can still be a vital part of their lives.

As I look back, there are no accolades on my walls, I'm not a social butterfly (except on the soccer/little league circuit!)...I'm just a mom and Nanni - Motherhood (definitely) Made Me.

Oh wait- I stand corrected, I do have a "Mother of the Year" award, decorated by two adorable toddlers and I realize that I am one of the most successful women in the world, because I created two amazing HUMANS!!!