We have a no-frogs-inside the house rule, but this time I'll make an exception.

Top 10 Reasons Why I Talk A Lot About Healthy Start: #9 My Mom

I have a mom. I appreciate her.

I'm sorry she had to wait for me to reach my 30's to begin to understand, even in just a small part, her experiences, losses, & sacrifices as a young mom.

She reminds me of and apologizes for falling short when I was young. But as the years pass and I've (too slowly) matured, I recognize I fall short on a daily basis as well. How can I hold this against her?
She loved us.
She stuck it out.
I love the Bible verse, 1 Peter 4:8, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."

Plus I have many memories of ways she came through for me, my sisters, and others around us:
-She read books and prayed with us every night before bed.
-She surrounded us in a supportive community at church and school.
-She was hospitable; offering a listening ear, meal, and our small home to people with deep struggles.
-She was determined to make a better life for us; even if that meant swallowing pride and accepting help for a time.
-She expected independence & responsibility from us....and remained consistent.

I'm still mourning the fact that it has taken me so long to recognize and commend Mom's efforts.

I'd like to take part in encouraging young moms; to not give up, even if you have a strong-willed child, like myself &
to take the hard road. It will pay off in the end.

Thanks, Mom. I love you.