Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is my mother's birthday. She's not around anymore (she passed away 9 years ago), but if she were alive, she would be 58 years old today. Sometimes I don't do a good job of remembering my mother and all of the wonderful things about her, so today I thought I would take a second and reflect on what an amazing woman my mother was.


The picture on top is of my mom and dad on their wedding day. Look at how cute they were! My mom was always fun to be around - she was an optimist by nature and always saw the good in other people. She was my favorite playmate as a youngster until my sister was born - and would play Barbies with me or anything else I wanted. She was one of the most humble people I've ever met, and never gave herself airs.



Unfortunately, my mother had an addiction that she was unable to overcome in this lifetime, but despite her limitations, I truly believe she tried very, very hard to be a good mother. The last year she was alive, I was able to spend Christmas with my mom, who was living in Arkansas at the time. In order to save up money to buy me a few Christmas gifts, my mother rang a bell for the Salvation Army. Every time I imagine my mother ringing the Salvation Army bell, I am proud of her and feel of the love she had for my sister and me. And there is never a time when I pass by someone ringing a Salvation Army bell that I don't think of her. I always try to find some spare change to give the bell ringer.

So today, mother, I wish you a Happy Birthday! Thanks for being a great Mom.

8 comments:

MegiJones said...

That is so sweet! I'm glad you shared pics and memories, Suz~! Love to hear all about your mom...

Mim said...

How sweet. I think Kathleen looks a lot like your mom. Happy thoughts for you!

Canadian Princess said...

Very sweet post Suzanne!

Rinez said...

Thanks for sharing about your Mom. It is evident that you love her so much and she must be so very proud of you. Maybe she and Shannon have met.

Lindy said...

What a sweet tribute. Thank you for sharing a bit about your mom. She's beautiful.

Natalie said...

I don't think I'd ever heard that story about your mom and the Salvation Army. That is really cool. It's wonderful the sacrifices that moms make for their kids and we really see how much they love us through their sacrifices, big and small.

Rob & Julie said...

awww, Suzanney. :)

I have to admit, at first I didn't realize it was you writing and thought it was Boyce.... I caught on when you started talking about playing with Barbies though. ;)

Jaime said...

how sweet suzanne! I can't believe how much she and your sister look alike!