Favorite #174: Mother’s Day Everyday

My grandson, Garrett, sharing a conversation and a treat with his great-grandma Smith, my mom.

Time Together

It’s fun to see the different ways mothers are surprised or pampered on Mother’s Day.  Even though  flowers, candy and presents are great, most mothers are happy just to spend time with their families.

Now that my mom lives with me, technically every day at my house is mother’s day. At ninety-five, she has enjoyed a long life with the blessings of good health and friends and family who love her. Last October we knew the time had come for her to move in with me.

I’m not going to say this has been an easy transition, but we’re learning to manage. It’s hard seeing someone you love in decline, especially if they’ve always been active and a vital part of their community. Mom longs for that time and hopes her health will improve so she can go back home again someday. While we both would love for that to happen, deep down we know that’s not a reality.

One of her favorite things to do on Sunday mornings is watch  Joel Osteen.  This past week he had a message that hit home for both of us. He said oftentimes we hurry through one stage of life looking to the next while misssing the blessings of the season we’re in. He went on to say with blessings come burdens. For example, it may be hard for parents to think of a baby as a blessing when they’re tired or frustrated from losing sleep.  

While it’s true this season of life as a care giver has its own unique burdens, there are unique blessings as well. I see those blessings every time Mom laughs or has a twinkle in her eye from some secret joke.  That happened recently when we were out eating at a local pizza parlor. A teenage girl walked by wearing short-shorts. Mom took one look at her, laughed and said, “Those aren’t nothing but bloomers.” Yes, there was a twinkle in her eye.  

One of my favorite blessings in this journey has been watching Mom interact with her great-grandchildren. The love exchanged speaks volumes as can be seen in the photo above.

 I don’t know how long Mom and I have together or what the future holds, but one thing I know is who holds the future and that’s all that matters.

Special thanks to the staff of Community Home Care and Hospice of Statesville, NC for the loving care and attention they give Mom each week. You lift us up every day.

What experience(s) can you share in caring for a loved one? Where did you find your strength? Leave a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

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