Almost every year at this time, I write a blog about my mom - only fitting, since yesterday was her birthday. Maybe it is because I am getting older, and know there are some things I will always wonder about, but I find myself wishing I could sit down with her as an adult and ask her certain questions. Here are some of the ones I would ask:
What do you think of how we all are turning out? Can you believe that Zachary is old enough to be in the military? What was it like growing up and have a birthday one day apart from Uncle Ernie? What was it like to have five kids by the time you were the age I am now? If you could travel any place in the world, where would it be? When people say we look alike - especially our mannerisms - do you see it? What is the real name for the "pink stuff" dessert we used to eat at Thanksgiving - nobody can seem to remember.
I would sit down and tell her that she was a mother to some of the strongest people I know. I would tell her how I'm amazed that I'm old enough to have a son taller than I am. I would share with her the heartache that went with getting divorced, the confidence that came from making it on my own, and the absolute excitement at building not just a house, but a home for me and JD. I would tell her how thankful I am that Mae-Beth has found Scott and they are going to start a beautiful life together. How he fits right in and made lumpia to add to our Thanksgiving meal. I would tell her how we all know we will cry when we see Maebs in her wedding dress - and we'll be laughing about all of us crying.
If you are fortunate to have your mother into adulthood, I would suggest getting to know her - not just as your mom, but as a person. As someone who has hopes, dreams, thoughts, hurts, disappointments, triumphs, and trials. There might come a time when you wonder about some of these things, but won't have the opportunity ask...
So, Happy Birthday - one day late - to the woman responsible for bringing me here. Thanks for this amazing gift of life. May I do everything I can to make each day better than the one before.
