Happy May 8th

There have been a TON of women in my life who have taken me under their wings. In some way or another, at some time or another, blessed me, loved me, and prayed for me like their own daughters. Before I became a mother I called many of them 'mom', now that I have children of my own, I deeply regret having done this. In retrospect I see how much that may have slighted my mother and her roll in my life.



That said, Mother's Day always makes me think of the women who have made a very special impact on my life and I would like to thank a few of them here.  It will be very hard to touch on every person as I have been infinitely blessed with strong christian women over the years, but I'm going to try my best.

I would be remiss if I did not start this post out by mentioning my two beautiful mother in laws.

Left to Right: Karen, Brian's father Steve, Brian, and his mother Beth

I have been extremely blessed by both of these women. Both have strong relationships with Christ and are wonderful examples of good Christian women. I was very warmly received into the family by each of them in their own unique ways.

My first encounter with Beth she greeted me with a hug and affirmation that the Lord told her I was to be her daughter-in-law, I cannot describe how comforting that was to hear. I admire her for her faith, and her love. She is one of the most welcoming and loving people I have ever met. Willing to love give advice to, or financially help anyone she crosses paths with.

I admire Karen for her quiet confidence. I love the way she can enter a room and immediately know what needs to be done, figure out what goes where, and help while simultaneously maintaining her distance and showing respect for your space and things. I've discovered this as a unique expression of her love for me, and my children which I deeply value.

I know it is rare to have one mother in law with whom you can love and truly respect and I am so grateful to have two uniquely different and yet completely welcoming and loving women with whom I can call in-laws and friends.

Next up are two women I've known my whole life. My mother's two best friends.  Aunt Barbie and Aunt DJ. I can't tell you how many times I have heard the stories about Aunt DJ helping my mom with her deliveries or how Aunt Barbie was the first person I ever walked to. Calling them strictly "Barb" or "DJ" would demean who they are to me, these women are not my mothers friends, they are my family.

My mom's 2 best friends: Aunt Barbie (left) and Aunt DJ (right)

They were there, when our world seemed like it was falling apart. They took turns keeping my sisters and I for days on end while my mother was in and out of the hospital. They encouraged me, telling me I was special, beautiful and valuable. I will always be grateful for the love and kindness they showed me, my mom, and my sisters during that time of our lives. For the way they having continued being their for my mom during her very long and various health trials.

In recent years my Aunt Barbie has become even more special to me. I have always felt a special connection to her, but there was a clear shift in our relationship during my senior year of college. I was honored that she drove two hours to come to the presentation of my Senior Project.

I was soooooooo  nervous beforehand. Long story short, I nailed my presentation. I'm not just saying that because I'm cocky or overly confident. I hate giving speeches. About 30 seconds into this speech I was completely relaxed and totally in control (even kicked off my high heels and did it barefoot!). I vaguely remember my (future) husbands hug, my dad's proud smile, and my mother's bubbly laughter. But I very clearly remember my Aunts excited proclamation "I prayed for you! I prayed that a confidence you have never known before would come over you!" I still get chills thinking back to that, because I couldn't describe what I'd felt on that stage any better than what she'd just said. This exchange made me realize that she was a praying woman and slowly that connection, our shared love for Christ, has made my love for her swell all the more.

Aunt Barbie holding Micah for the first time

I will never forget the time she held my first born and looked up at me with tears in her eyes "He is absolutely beautiful."  I could go on all night!  Detailing moments, and things she has done or said which have blessed me. I am very encouraged by her, very loved by her. I've had the chance to get to know her even better through Facebook and been honored with each piece of encouragement she has given to me.

This post has taken on a life I did not expect. I thought, oh I'll find a few good pictures, post a word or two about each and bam! I'll be reading my Kindle in no time. But alas, I always discover how much I actually have to say once I start saying it. I think I will have to turn this into a two or three part post, stay tuned for more in the next day or two.

In the meantime Happy Mother's Day Karen and Beth, and Happy May 8th Day Aunt Barbie and Aunt DJ, I love you all and praise the Lord special for each of you today.