Voting starts for 2013 Mother of Year

Vote today through May 12 for one of the 41 “amazing” mothers nominated by readers to be this year’s InMaricopa’s Mother of the Year.

Winners will be announced May 13. Source Point Center, 347 Grill and UltraStar Cinema have donated the prizes.

From women singing the praises of sister-in-laws and mother-in-laws to a soldier in Afghanistan thanking his wife for her sacrifices to a sick husband sharing his appreciation for the care he’s been given, those nominating women to be this year’s Mother of the Year give readers a peek into the character of the Maricopa mom.

She is dedicated to her family and her community; battles the odds and wins; and makes a difference in the lives around her.

The first-place winner will receive a 90-minute massage, dinner for two, two movie passes and flowers; the second-place winner will get a 60-minute massage, two movie passes and flowers; and the third-place will receive a 30-minute massage and flowers.

Read the nominations below, then click here to vote between now and 11:59 p.m. May 12.

Sarah Attridge
Nominated by Suzy Breunig of Maricopa
Sarah has been an amazing mama! She has come so very far since losing the life she knew through a painful divorce. Through many tears, her faith in God and having a strong family support system, Sarah has pulled herself up by her boot straps and has been an amazing survivor … and mama. She shares custody with her former husband and has made a commitment to get along with him for the sake of her children. She has made a beautiful home of her rental, has been able to stay at home with her babies, while taking care of a good friend who has M.S. in her home. She also has a cleaning service, “On The Move Cleaning,” and is able to spend her special treasured and precious time with her children. She knows God is good … and she tries to help her community in so many ways. Wish we could have more Sarah’s in this world.

Cami Barnella
Nominated by Catherine Barnella of Maricopa
Cami is a single mother to our grandson Jackson. Last year alone she juggled being a great mom, President of the Maricopa Co. Paralegal Association, and PTO President at Santa Cruz Elementary School. This year has not been as busy, but she continues put her son first and we are so proud of her and the woman that she's become!

Ginger Barrett
Nominated by Josh Barrett of Maricopa
Proverbs 31:10-12 says… "A WIFE of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks NOTHING of value. She brings him good, not harm, ALL the days of her life." Ginger Barrett epitomizes THIS Woman! She's been my soul-mate and best friend for 19 years in marriage! Not being able to have children naturally – she has selflessly raised three incredible kids (Isaac/Caleb/Charis) since infancy – each… hand-selected for her by God! Though they may have not grown in her womb – they most definitely were grown in her heart! Sacrificial GIVING is a word that defines her Character! She relentlessly cares for each of them with Grace and Patience day after day – especially our 2nd child (Caleb) who has special needs (Cornelia De Lange Syndrome)! BALANCING is also something that personifies Ginger – while caring and loving each of them – she has sacrificially been a 'ROCK' for me as well – demonstrating endless LOVE and FAITHFUL SUPPORT for the past 19 years – as a Pastor's Wife! Anyone who is around her for any period of time… instantly becomes a better person themselves! She is simply the most AMAZING individual I have ever met and most definitely worthy of Mother of the Year… not just this year – but EVERY YEAR!

Jennifer Beckstead
Nominated by Wade Beckstead of Maricopa
Jennifer has four very active young boys ages 3, 5, 8, and 10 years old. Jennifer is a stay at home mother who is dedicated to raising her children in the best possible manner. When she is not chasing around her boys, she actively volunteers at Legacy Traditional School. She is involved with the Art Masterpiece program instilling in children the history of art and how to find beauty in life expressed through art. Jennifer also regularly helps out in her children’s classrooms by correcting and filing papers easing the burden on the teachers. This allows the teachers to focus on what they do best; teach and instruct the youth so they can be prepared for their bright futures. Jennifer is actively involved in her Church. She is constantly helping out in the women’s organization. She is there to organize the women’s classes each Sunday and plans activities and dinners for the women regularly. She is always taking a meal or watching someone’s children when they need a helping hand or just need a friend. To top it off, Jennifer just graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Family Life. Jennifer was able to balance her life so that she could finish her degree through correspondence courses without neglecting her top priorities – her family and community. Jennifer is a faithful Mother, wife, and member of our community. Everyone is blessed who comes into contact with her. Jennifer Beckstead is my vote for InMaricopa Mother of the Year!