mother

Naturally, I am grateful for my amazing mother. It has only been in the past few years that I've realized how exceptional she is and always has been. Her to-do list for a day looks a bit like mine does for a week; the difference being that she actually gets through hers! We have a pretty tidy, fairly clean house- but finding a safety pin can require a little sleuthing. (Case in point- yesterday morning getting ready for church- what fun:) Mostly because I don't always remember just where I keep the baby food jar containing safety pins. In my mom's house, these things are not adventures. This is one reason that she finds time for so many worthwhile things. But she is very understanding with me. I think her sense of humor helps. She wrote the book on how to laugh at life's little surprises and quirks. However, I am inspired by far more than her ability to locate a safety pin in her immaculate house, and her ready laughter... I am grateful and eternally blessed by her loving devotion to her children. She taught us about God and how to follow His teachings, having faith in Jesus and being guided by the Holy Spirit from day to day. She taught us that we are always loved, and can always be forgiven and try again every day. She taught us to pray, and to obey. She taught us to give and help and share, and to look out for each other. She exemplified compassion, and discretion. She knows how not to say what won't help, and she would give generously, but secretly. She taught us to work hard, then play hard. She taught us to make home cozy and bright, and to cook and bake. She found a smile more than once when I was learning to prepare food for our family growing up, and ended up with those disasters which can accompany the culinary exploits of imaginative children. She always encouraged me to do and to be my best, and not to be pushed around by peer pressure. She taught me tenderness and consideration for the old, and delighted pleasure in the young. Anyone who wonders how I came to love little babies as I do should observe my mother with her grandchildren! She showed me how to forgive and love anyway, especially with family. She showed me that with faith, creativity, hard work, and determination, she can do anything! Really. She once pulled a MacGyver, getting us into my house, where I had locked the keys. I'll never forget the feeling of utter despair, and then the miracle that opened that door! She can make a lot with a little. She never gives up. She is strong and uncomplaining, and walks right on over discouragement every time. And she treasures and cherishes me... and makes sure I know it. I shudder to think of who and where I'd be without her selfless care. Thank Heaven I came to her, and no one else. xo Mom.