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Fibromyalgia Mom Of The Year Contestant gives all props to her kids ~ Lori Kurowski

"Mom, come on, let's go ride bikes", my daughter shouted to me from the garage. I steadied myself with both hands on the kitchen counter top and replied, with tears in my eyes,"Not today Bug". I then heard the back door shut and I fell to my knees, sobbing at the realization I just couldn't do the things I used to be able to do with my kids. While I was on the ground, my then four-year old son came trudging into the kitchen. "What's wrong Mommy?", he asked. I replied," Mommy's just not having a good day Bud". He replied, "Just scoot over to the friderator Mom, we'll play with the magnits". With a smile on my face, I crawled over to the "fridge" and started to play with my son. I was still on the ground, but I was smiling and so was he. That was the day I realized that "I could do, what I could do", and I would make every moment count.

Over the years,my children have learned many creative ways of helping me cope with my Fibromyalgia, and still have a great time. They understand my limitations. They know the look in my eyes when I've had enough, they recognize the limp in my step when I need an ice pack, they respect my need for silence when they see the pained look on my face. I am only a good mom because I have incredible kids. They have taught me how to "suck it up" and when to "take a rest", because that's what kids do, they tell the truth. They know my limitations, but more importantly, they know my capabilities. They know I would do anything for them. They know the days that I'm pushing myself so they can have a special day. They recognize my need for rest after a strenuous day. Their smiles lift me up. Their laugher gives me fuel. Their hugs give me the strength to face the day. Their love sustains me.They have adjusted their lives to fit mine. We laugh a lot, especially when I trip over things! We don't take ourselves too seriously, and we don't give Fibro power over us. We have invited it in, and embraced it, limitations and all. We love unconditionally, laugh loudly (and often), and, most importantly, support eachother, no matter what. So what makes me a "good mom", simple, my kids. I love you more than chocolate Kaley and Anthony, and I am SO lucky to be your mom!!!!