The Mom Factor

There is something special and simple about Moms. Now, this is no surprise. Nothing unknown; it's not a new discovery or something shocking. It's not like reaching into your just-unpacked-winter-coat and finding a crumpled up kleenex and a twenty dollar bill from last season. There is nothing surprising about that unique characteristic that only Moms hold. We all know it's there; it's evident in their every move and moment of existence. I could easy write this entire post without explaining what I'm speaking of, and you would be thinking of the same exact thing I am in describing this. It's the Mom factor. They are more caring than normal human beings. They keep us kids fed, even after we're moved out, married, graduated, and expecting a child of our own. Who does that? haha. Moms do. They hear the two frightening words from us on the phone, "I'm sick" and immediately offer to drop their plans, take off work, pack a bag, and drive two hours to come take care of us. They still get excited about Christmas morning, and still buy us a sweet present and stuff our stockings with goodies. We still gather at her house and all wake on Christmas morning to retreat to the foot of the Christmas tree (with that same giddy feeling), just like we did when we were five. The same special sensation is rushing through each of us, and it's not because we're excited about what's wrapped within those beautiful red boxes or what's tied up in the silver and gold ribbon. It's because we're family. We're doing what we've done every year since we've been alive, and we're with the people whom we love more than life itself. It's because our Mom has spent days preparing plans for our arrival, stocking the fridge and putting up the tree, vacuuming the carpets and cleaning the kitchen. These precious deeds are what create and foster that love and happiness (among the million other characteristics she holds). Moms are distinguished and important all in their own way. And I love that. There is nothing like a Mom.

I don't gush about my Mom because I wish to brag or boast. This is the farthest possible declaration from the truth. It's just that I'm sitting here eating a homemade chocolate chip cookie that she made and brought to us  and it's affecting more than just my stomach. It's got my heart and my mind. I've always appreciate her, and always been aware of her endless amount of caring and loving nature. But I guess I'm pregnant and really thinking about things now. I can't imagine doing some of the things she's done for her children. It seems unimaginable to be as giving and selfless as she was when we were small and life was tough. She is still that amazing Mom, and it's been 25 years. Everyday. Every minute. How does one commit like that? I simply cannot imagine, but I know that I hope to be like her one day. I believe I can be, with the example that she's given me and with the help of our Lord. It would be a blessing and an honor to be thought of like I think of my Mom. So, I say all of these things simply to express my gratitude and love for her. I've written about my grandparents, my sister, and many other people. But some how my Mom slipped through the cracks, and now is my moment to recognize her in my writing. I'm praying for all the Mom's around the world today and all those who have been blessed with a Mom. I'm also praying for those who have not had a Mom, that they may know the unique, sweet love of a Mom someday. That they will be one, or be married to one...for it is the greatest love on Earth.




Mom and I at my UCO graduation yesterday.

 The fire is burning bright, and the little one in my belly is enjoying a nice chocolate chip cookie from his/her Gran (Mom's "grandma" name) right about now. Eric's watching a football game where snow is covering the screen, and Beau is playing with his cute little puppy in the sunshine that's flooding through the window. My sister is praying for safe travel back to America in 4 days, as blizzards are currently shutting down airports all over Europe. (Please pray for her to be home by Christmas day!) I feel happy and that my cup is full. Yes, our life is full of road blocks and struggles all the same, but I just can't ignore all these wonderful characteristics that are filling up our little world also. There are too many good things to look at the bad things. I have faith that our Heavenly Father takes care of His children, and seeming that we are two of His children, I believe He has a plan for our life and will lead us down the right road in His time.

It's a cool, blustery afternoon and I'm planning on enjoying the rest of this incredible Sunday. I don't have to cook dinner tonight because Mom left us with a fridge full of food yesterday. The one show on TV we actually watch, Survivor, is airing it's live finale tonight (which I am SUPER excited about!). I got sick at 2:00 a.m. last night, but I'm  feeling really great today. My sister comes home in 4 days (hopefully). Christmas is in 6 days (the most wonderful time of year!). We find out the sex of our little one in 15 days. And most importantly, I'm feeling spiritually happy today. I'm learning to trust God and rely on Him rather than Earthly things. I am finally wrapping my mind around the fact that He is in control of all.

"Have a heart that never hardens, a temper that never tires, a touch that never hurts."

-Charles Dickens


All Our Love,
JenEric