Happy Birthday, Momma

     Today is Mom's birthday.  She would have been 88 today.  She's in Heaven now, so she's not counting birthdays anymore.  But I wanted to wish her a "Happy Birthday" by sharing some thoughts about her here.


     Mom was the first-born of 5 children; her father was a hard-working man, a coal miner; and her mother an industrious woman who could take a little bit of anything and make a delicious meal.  They were good, honest people that loved their family.

     And Mom loved her family above all things on this earth and would do anything for us.  Well, not exactly anything: I remember hearing her tell one of my brothers, "I love you and I'll die for you, but I won't lie for you."  That was Momma!  She had such surrender to Jesus and such integrity!

     Mom had a giving heart and was always doing for others.  Not only did she work with children in her position at Curtis Elementary School, she also taught children in Sunday School at her church.  Her involvement in church wasn't sitting in a pew - she was active in the choir, ladies ministry, and visiting the shut-ins.  If there was a need, Mom was usually there!  

     And she took such delight in her grand-children and great-grandchildren!  As her health declined and she wasn't able to go out much, she loved seeing the posts on social media; it gave her a connection with them.

     She was so talented!  She could sew, crochet, and was a great cook, but she loved most of all doing ceramics.  Her pieces were works of art.  And she put her heart into every one she made.

     Mom smiled easily and had such a sense of humor.  She loved having fun and enjoyed life even with the heartaches and pain we caused her.  

     Mom wasn't perfect, but to us she was perfectly wonderful!  She still influences us every day because the life she lived before us was one of love and honest devotion.  And I miss her more than I can put into words.

     So today, November 4th, I just want to share these thoughts, remember her, and to say with all my heart, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOMMA!  I love you!"

     Shared in love, 

                Chris