Happy Mother’s Day, Momma!

This Mother’s Day I am so sad to not get to be there in person to tell you what a great mother you are, so I wanted to write you a note to try and express what you mean to me.

Momma, I am brought to tears to think of how blessed I am to have you as my mom! You have taught me what it means to give of yourself to others and shown me what true joy and satisfaction is, trusting in Jesus for daily strength and looking to Him for happiness.

I remember the days when you had 7 kids ages 7 and under and you’d get us all dressed and hair fixed for the day. When you put the youngest kids down for naps you’d teach the rest of us our school subjects. I remember those afternoons when I could tell you were super tired because you’d have to stand up at the end of the table versus sitting in a chair just to keep from nodding off, but you kept pressing on with a joyful attitude! I remember the fun crafts we did, the songs we learned together, and the times when we’d all be hoping we would get to be the one chosen to create hand motions for the new bible memory verse. You made learning fun!

I remember that when I disappointed you, you didn’t use demeaning words, but would say something like, “That’s not like you to act that way, you’re a sweet girl!” This allowed me to feel sad for disappointing you, but also made me feel valued by your praise. I remember late nights where you’d be sewing at the dining room table making new outfits or repairing ones we had been hard on. You taught us frugality and organization by going to early morning weekend garage sales or thrift store shopping, then saving outgrown or out of season clothes in file boxes using a labeling system that made it easy to find the right sizes when we needed them.

Hospitality was one way you showed us how to reach out. I remember constantly having people into our home and you were always gracious to offer a meal or meet other needs they may have had. You would give of your time to speak words of encouragement, just listen or pray with friends or people in the grocery store who would stop to talk.

You always had time for me and made sure to tell me that if I needed to talk about anything I could always come to you even if it were in the middle of the night or I had to call you by phone if you were away. You also wanted to make one-on-one time special so we had a list next to the fridge that gave each kids name. We’d look forward to our turn, knowing that when we got to run an errand with you we’d get a dollar treat of our choice.

When I was in labor with Israel, I wanted you there because your presence brought peace, prayer, encouragement and comfort. You were so supportive before, during morning sickness, and postpartum too, coming and helping many days and nights wherever Derick and I needed you.

I love you so much momma and miss you tons! I admire you and pray God will continue to bless you. I have learned so much from your example that I pray to carry on in my own journey of motherhood.

“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies…Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” –Proverbs 31:10