Hindsight...not letting it get far behind

I didn't listen to her because she was my mother & wouldn't know anything until I was much older

~Story People

(sigh)

Things I've learned (continuing to learn) from my mother...

1. Patience (unwavering patience) - mostly for those little souls at my feet...the ones that always have to be touching me, even when we're all in the 1/2 bath with the door shut & mama's just trying to potty

2. Contentment - making the most of what's around me; not seeking bigger/better/what the Jones' may appear to have (grass is seldom greener and we all live in glass houses)

3. Dedication - doing what's required with a gracious and humble heart; being accountable even when the praises are few

4. Quiet - learning to be quiet, not letting my voice/opinion ring so loud; talking less, listening more

5. Forgiveness - letting go...grudges, hurts, disappointments...letting go so they don't keep me from moving forward

6. Faith - giving due credit and seeking His will for my life...knowing I am child of God above all else

7. Homemaking - filling whatever space I'm in with love; a home is something you grow - not build; it has everything to do with what you fill it with; the seeds you plant, the way you nurture, the enjoyment of the bounteous blessings

I don't have it in me to be long winded today, BUT in the spirit of celebrating Mother's, there are not words enough to celebrate my own.  Thank you mama - thank you for being you, for always encouraging me to be me and above all - being an example of a believer, woman, mother, friend that I aspire to be and hope to emulate.  With each year that passes, and with you as my shining example, I see more and more the woman I hope to become one day...

And for my babies - you have no idea the joy it is to be your mama.  I sometimes hear your laughter, see your smiles, feel your warm lil' bodies cradled in my arms and I lose my breath, if only for a moment.  I know that's a nudge from God, telling me to marinate myself in those moments with you.  I can only describe it as sunshine from within - that's what the warmth of my love for you feels like.  Thank you for making me radiate...  

The blessing of mothers, the grace found in being one - the heartening in both...(sigh)

Happy (belated) Mother's Day