Happy Birthday, Mom!

She has always been a strong spiritual staple in my life and for that I am so grateful! She worked so hard when we were young to pay for Christian private school for 5 years. Probably 5 of the most impressionable years of my life. That education laid a foundation for my life that has proved to hold me up under all the stresses and changes that have come along. I wouldn't trade those years of God in my curriculum for any amount of money. It really became the standard for which all others have been compared. I know it was hard for her to take on that responsibility since I know my father did not have an interest in making it a priority for him.

My father made it very hard and at times literally unbearable for her in so many ways. He was a violent alcoholic and didn't seem to have lasting benefits from alcohol and drug rehabs. She never deserved any of that harsh treatment and controlling of her life, even down to not allowing her to drive! She had to take the bus or walk to work even in the snow and ice and storms! After their divorce, she was 47 when she got a driver's license for the first time. I remember her driving away from the house that first day, my brother and I were standing and waving good bye from the front porch. I was so happy for her new found freedom!

I love my mom and I hope I have many more years to enjoy her company and learn from her. I have worked with my mom here in our office for the past 10 years and now she even lives with me temporarily, but I'm still not tired of her! As one lady in a store who overheard us cackling, "You guys are a hoot!" LOL I will miss working with my mom and having lunch with her. I think it will make me appreciate just that much more, the time I spend with her! So here's to you, mommacita, I love you...MORE!!!