Pages of My Life.....

Being a mother is an amazing gift that God blesses you with. Your children are entrusted to you to raise, love, instill values, morals, conscience, empathy, and tender, giving hearts. As they go through their teenage years, you see the lack of confidence, the struggles, the broken hearts, the disappointments, the disillusionment of things not working out. You also get to see their senses of humor emerge through all of their experiences. You see them arrive to adulthood filled with enthusiasm for life and the energy to go after whatever their choices might be. You are blessed with a grandchild that takes you to a whole other level and depth of love that is an extension of the love you have for your children. You go through the challenges, the arguments, the silence when opinions clash. You also enjoy the other side of the storm when love brings everyone back together.

I often think at a funeral that all of the wonderful things that are said and all of the people that show up are such a tribute to a life now passed. I always hope that the loved one would be able to look down to see the love and admiration that is expressed. I was able to experience some of that wonderful expression of love that so many people never hear or know.

I was given a gift today that is so meaningful and beautiful that it is hard for me to put into words. My children and friends all contributed to a book that was thoughtfully and lovingly put together by my daughter as a Christmas present. The effort was not without frustration and disappointment as the company that it was ordered from did not deliver as promised. What was to be a gift on December 25Th, was finally put in my hands on January 8Th.

As I read the book, I was so overcome with emotions. The sentiment from Ej and Jon touched my heart in a way that I didn't know possible. My daughters words and Grandson's expression of love was touching and heartfelt. My friends, co-workers, and former students contributions were unbelievable.

I am so overwhelmingly humbled and grateful and appreciative of every one's sentiments. I am such a lucky, blessed woman who has come through so many changes and opportunities leading up to this new year,2009. I began this new year as a more dedicated Christian woman with the goal of spending time with my children and friends and continuing to make memories as long as the Lord allows me to be here on Earth.

Finding words of gratitude that really express what my heart is feeling tonight isn't possible..... I am going to sit back and reflect on that incredible love I am feeling tonight. Thank you, Lindsay, for your creative flair putting this amazing book together and for your friendship and love. Thank you to my sons, Ej and Jon, for being my pillars through some very difficult times and for loving me for who I am and valuing the kind of mom I sought to be. Thank you to my darling grandson, Dawson, for being the light in my heart, and to my friends and co-workers and the special new people that have joined our circle, thank you for walking with me everyday in my life journey. I am so proud that you are on the pages of my life.