A tribute to my mom!

Momma 2011

It's hard for me not to cry as I talk about my mom. She is one of my bestest friends. We have always had an unsual relationship. When I was 13 and all my friends were going on and on about the secrets they couldn't talk to their mom about I couldn't relate. Oh I am not saying that I didn't keep secrets from her. But most things I couldn't keep from her. I remember a time when my friends convienced me to steal a pair of earrings from the zoo gift shop. I came home riddled with guilt. But the moment mom got home my stomach started hurting. Like really bad hurting! And my stomach would continue to hurt until I told her. And you know what? She didn't get mad! She would always tell me thanks for telling me, but then she made me take them back and apologize. This always happened! We could talk about things that I had done wrong and she understood.

Mom Me and my sister on our trip to Colorado 1996

I know that this relationship was because of our situation. When dad walked out of our house before my 11th birthday, we had to make an agreement. She had to assume the role of provider and I had to assume the responsibilities of the house. We needed each other desperately! I at first enjoyed my new found freedom to boss around my brother and sister. But eventually the lack of a childhood and responsibility of my family started to wear on me. I know that my mom knew how hard it was for us, and she did her very best to keep us from knowing her pain. She would work 2 to 3 jobs to pay the bills and sacrificed the rest of her time to be with us. Talk about giving! I don't know a momma that gave more than my mom did and does still! But one of the best gifts my momma ever gave me was my faith.


3 generations Grandma, Mom, Me and Deb 2004

At five years old, I walked down the aisle with both of my parents to get baptized. Having asking the night before why they were getting baptized adn what it meant. Momma explained to me about Jesus and I having heard His Name in Sunday School, accepted Him in my heart and said the sinners prayer. But of course, my life didn't stop there. Mom's faith and prayer life not only kept us alive in really hard times but it set an example on whom we should rely. She trusted God to provide for us. She prayed to God in desperate situations. She gave God the glory for the things he has done for us. And she lived her life with the Joy only He can give. I still strive to have Joy and Peace like my mother has because of Jesus.

Mom Me and Deb 2009

What a gift she has given me of life and eternal life. I hope to one day be an example to my children that lead them to the One True Savior! And today as she has transfered her roles from mother to grandmother, I cherish her even more. I cannot go through a trial without calling my mommy to get advice. I love to share the good times and bad times with her. I trust her judgement and use her as a spiritual compass when I am lost. She is a friend and a leader to me.

2010 Mom and Joslyn

She is also a wonderful grandma to all her grandchildren. Mom doesn't live close to us, and I know that she regrets not being there physically. But Momma has a spirit that reaches past far distances. She feels close enough to touch with her words and heart. My children will always know what a legend my mom is and how she is living her life for Jesus.

2011 Nana with grandchildren

My mom has never met a stranger. She knows no racial boundaries. She lives her life according to how God has made her. Beautiful! Thank you mom for being who you are and for making me the woman I am today! I love you!