Mother's Day is this Sunday in the U.S. That day and the preceding ones have usually been difficult for me since I do not have children and have never been pregnant despite my attempts. I have 5 blood related nephews & nieces, plus "adopted" ones, but none of my own. This may also be the case for some of you. I am hoping this year will be different - for all of us TTC-ers.

Last night, my mood lifted. I was dreading AF's impending arrival and wondering what I would do for my fiance's birthday on Saturday. While in the car with my 10-year old niece, I made conversation and casually asked what she thought I should do. We are extremely close and I care for her several times a week as her parents work for the airlines and are gone 2-3 days out of the week. She replied that she didn't know and stated that "I should be thinking about what to get YOU!" Confused, I asked, What do you mean?" "You're like my mother!" she exclaimed and let go of the game she was playing on her phone and reached out her hand to me. Tears welled up. My heart swelled with a sweet, painful joy. I was thrilled.

She added, "You're my favorite aunt." I know I am not a "real" mother. But I am going to carry what she said and this feeling to Mother's Day.

We are all here trying to conceive, whether it be our 1st, 3rd, or rainbow baby. No words can soothe that yearning in our souls. Until we do successfully conceive and carry to a live birth (and I mean that with sincere HOPE and PRAYERS to God to hear our pleas), I would like each of us to think of those we have "mothered" over the years. We are already moms.

Be kind to yourself. Let go of the worries and frustrations. Treat yourself on Sunday.