"Every time I have the opportunity to attend an American Mothers event I find myself surrounded by amazing women – true gems - who have accomplished much in their homes and communities and I admit I have found myself feeling a bit like a diamond in the rough. My mind wanders back to times when I have forgotten to pick up my four year old from swimming lessons, accidentally dried the kitty in the dryer, or dragged my ill 11 year old all over town while unbeknown to me her appendix was actually bursting! I have even joked with friends on those occasions that they could go ahead and nominate me for Mother of the Year!
Imagine my surprise when I learned of my nomination! Never in a million years would I have dreamed that I would actually be standing before you as the Oregon Mother of the year, though I will to refer to myself as the “Oregon Spokesmom of the year!” A spokesmom because I get to be a voice for all the moms who have had moments when we have felt we just aren't good enough!"
OK - so that is how will I begin my "speech" at the American Mother's National Convention at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City this weekend. It's true . . . I do feel very inadequate to hold this "title." But I do feel qualified to be a voice for mothers who have had those moments - we all do, don't we? I love being a mother to my six beautiful children. And I am comfortable being a cheerleader to the mother's in my State . . . well, to mother's everywhere.
So, my goal for this brand new blog is to introduce you to Oregon Moms. I will be putting together an questionnaire to email out to people interested in sharing their stories of motherhood. If you would like to share your story or if you know a Mom that has helped, taught, or inspired you, please let me know.
I also hope to share mommy humor, recipes, inspiration, support, and so on! Anything you would like to share will be appreciated.
So, that is it for now. Wish me luck in NYC. I'm headed to the Convention. This is the 75th anniversary of American Mothers - the Diamond Anniversary. If you would like more information about this organization, be sure to check out their website:www.americanmothers.org or go to the Oregon American Mother's website: www.oregonmothers.org.
When I get back from New York,I will post more stories and start a chapter of American Mother's where we can gather to support, honor, and teach each other! Talk to you later,
Shelly Brady
