(RED) gifts for mom

Some of you may remember the (RED) campaign from 2006 when Bono and Bobby Shriver founded the organization with a simple mission—to make it easy for people and businesses to join the fight against HIV/AIDS. Personally, I think it's a great campaign and right now the organization is focusing on mothers which of course is near and dear to my heart.

(RED) is offering stylish and affordable gifts that, when purchased, help to provide lifesaving medication to HIV+ pregnant women in need. Medication that will not only save their lives, but will also prevent them from passing the virus to their unborn babies. So this year if you want to buy something for a special mom in your life, why not buy something with meaning?

Here are few options:

For the Mom who likes to snuggle: The (aden + anais)RED Daydream Blanket 

For the mom For the mom who loves jewelry:
the (ALEX AND ANI)RED Kindred Heart Cord Bracelet Collection 

For the mom who likes to cook (me! me!): the (ALESSI)RED collection of designer kitchen items 

For a full list of items to purchase during this year's campaign, visit the (RED) website here.

an ode to my mom

Four generations: (R to L) My grandmother, me, my mom at 24 or so [almost 10 years after I had my first!] and my great grandmother

It's very strange how becoming a mother changes you. When I hear of something that has happened to a child on the news, my heart feels like it's tearing in two as though it were my own child. Drool and poop don't phase me and nothing is better than picking up your baby in the morning to his toothless grin.

Most of all, becoming a mom really puts into perspective what my own mom did for me. She raised three girls on her own (not easy girls either -- all stubborn as hell!), and has worked her ass off to provide for us. I thought I appreciated it before even though I likely drove her nuts on most days, but I really feel like I get it now.

So on this first Mother's Day weekend of mine, I'd like to thank my mother for everything she did for us growing up. It wasn't easy, I know, but we love you so much for how you persevered. xoxo