Mama

Last Sunday was Mother's Day and it was extra special to me because of the health problems that Mark's Mom has experienced in the past few weeks. We found out last Friday that she does have cancer. Her prognosis is better than it COULD be (1-3 years) because of the type of cancer cells they have found in her body (small cell vs. large cell). Her neurosurgery went smoothly and the surgeon was able to remove all of the cyst and MOST of the tumor growing on her brain. She is recovering very well and has an amazingly happy attitude. She is very strong and very much herself.

I've also been missing my own Mom like crazy. I've been a little "homesick" for my family lately, and am SERIOUSLY considering taking an Amtrak trip down to Texas with the kids this summer. I am so proud of my mother--of how strong she has been since Dad died. And how she gives and gives. And she's always there when I need a soft shoulder to cry on.

This week, Mark discovered a beautiful song called "Mama", sung by the vocal tenor group IL DIVO. If you haven't heard of them, they have some BEAUTIFUL Spanish songs and some really nice love songs. I plan to make a video to "Mama" as a gift for Connie early this summer. I am posting the video below so you can listen to it. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

I feel blessed continually to have TWO Moms that are loving and giving. BOTH of them have taught me by example about the Mom I need to be. The things our Moms do for us teach us subtly how to GIVE and give selflessly to our own kids, and it will make them good Moms and Dads, too. And their kids will be good Moms and Dads. Good parenting IS hereditary!! We learn by example and we teach what we know.

PROVERBS 31:25-28
"Strength and honor are her clothing. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. HER CHILDREN RISE UP AND CALL HER BLESSED."