I look at my only daughter, Tara, in awe! And on this Mother’s Day, I want to share some of her with you. She is the mother of Jaxon Ryan Boynton, an almost 8-year-old. If asked what her greatest accomplishment was, she would absolutely say, becoming a mother. She is a Physician’s Assistant, and one of the most caring and compassionate people I know. She is a faithful and loyal friend, and a take charge and responsible individual. I could go on about her wonderful qualities and attributes, but I want to focus on why I think she is such an awesome mother.
From the day Jaxon came into this world, the love that inevitably showed on Tara’s face let me know that she was the blessing that was long awaited! When Tara became a mother, she vowed to make that her #1 job. She knew that mothering was going to be the most important job she ever had, and she wanted to do her very best. From the very beginning, she would humbly admit that she needed help and continues to share when she has successfully handled life’s challenges or setbacks.
I couldn’t be prouder of the way that she has managed to provide balance for Jaxon and herself, especially since she is now a single mom. Tara manages to balance her own busy work schedule and social life, while being committed and involved in Jaxon’s development (academically, socially, and emotionally). She creates homework assignments above and beyond what is sent home. She encourages Jaxon to try various activities, supporting those that she most enjoys. Tara is very active in the PTO at Jaxon’s school. She chaperones on field trips, volunteers on special events throughout the community, drops off and picks up Jaxon from school, and is active in Jaxon’s girl scout troop.
I love the way that Tara intentionally makes time for herself. She is much better than I was at her age. But then there are so many things that this generation of mothers have mastered in the art of balancing their lives. Tara will go to the movies alone, regularly get her manicure, pedicure and hair done, work on her crafting, reading, as well as get out to socialize and date.
As parents we hope that our children will take in some of the words of wisdom that we try to impart. Tara lets me know how independent she is, but she also has no problem calling me or her dad, just to run something by us, making sure that what she is about to do makes sense. Most of the time, she just wants to talk, often about nothing special. These conversations are most special to me. It’s when, without even realizing it, I get to experience the effect that her mothering is having on her daughter. What I intentionally left for last, is that she does all this while waiting for a kidney transplant! She does it so effortlessly that many never even knew. This, along with so much more, is why I salute my daughter for being an incredible person and an awesome mother! ■
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!