Examples...

These last few days I have been thinking about how blessed I have been in my life to have wonderful women who have taught me to be a friend, wife and a mother.

My grandma Smith was a hard worker and she never complained. She was usually the first one up and had breakfast on before we had our eyes open. She loved taking care of her family. She was a wonderful hostess and somehow she knew what you needed before you even knew it yourself. I asked her once how she managed to fill everyone's glass with tea before we realized it was even empty and she said "She always listened for the ice". Oh to be so in tune with the needs of those I love.

My grandma Bishop was also a hard worker but her body wore out before it was time for her to go. She must have found it hard to be bedridden at a time in her life when her friends were taking trips and enjoying a time in their lives when they had less responsibility. She never let on if that was the case though. She was content with her situation and found a reason to smile everyday. Oh how I hope I will be able to accept the limitations of age with the same grace I saw in her.

My mom has taught me that being a mother is more about being there through the good and the bad than it is about carrying a child for nine months. She has loved me unconditionally since the very beginning when a skinny five year old child came to live with her. I hope my children will always know the security of my unconditional love.

Yesterday a woman that I had the privilege of calling MillieMom passed away and I've been thinking a lot about her and all the many things she was good at. I remember especially the day that I realized that I would be a lot smarter if I listened more closely to the advise she gave. She was committed to her husband and her family. She loved the sound of the family playing games together and taught me how to play cards and bunco. She was my google before we had computers and would answer my silly questions, even long distance. She never met a stranger and adopted those around her into her family. She was a wonderful mom, wife and grandma and has left behind a wonderful legacy in those who loved her. I am grateful for the place she had in my life and pray I will be able to remember and use all the life lessons she taught me.

Emptier Nest

We had a houseful a few nights ago and I loved it. There is nothing like the sound of teenagers laughing and just enjoying being together. It made me realize how much I miss having a full house. When Mike and I married we had six in the house and one across the street, and one across town. Now we have three in the house, one across the country, two married with families of their own one in Orlando going to school, and one who doesn't stay in one place too long! I know this is a natural progression and I really wouldn't want anything less for them, than for them to make their own lives and follow their dreams but I have to admit I miss having them all home at once.

I wonder if it will ever get easier? I think I am beginning to understand why my Grandma was so happy at Easter when all the kids made it home to the farm. It is comforting to have everyone together.

Is it too soon to recommend that we have family reunions?