Oh, there's One who smiles on high

On this Mother's Day, I'd like to pay tribute to the many Moms in my life.

I have fond memories of two wonderful grandmothers. Grandma Salisbury was such a jolly soul, and being in the rocking chair with her was like lying on a nice big pillow. After those wonderful seafood dinners at Bratten's, her and my mom used to fight about who would pay the bill, even though she barely had any income from Social Security. From Grandma Smith I remember the birthday shoe boxes filled with candy from the Gem Theatre; I don't know how she made it fit so well, but there was no air in there. I remember tossed salads with peas, a drawer with unique toys and such, and playing with the old upright radio. I was also fortunate enough to have a third "grandmother" in Aunt May. Alway so smiling and proud of us all. She was light and frail from eating like a rabbit, but would splurge on chocolate cake and ice cream at family birthday gatherings.

This is the first Mother's Day without my mom. We all miss her love and the music she made with her voice and life. She remembered every holiday and special event that ever occurred. Always conscious of our health, hamburger night was not complete without the compensating carrot and celery sticks. She gave freely to everyone, asking for little in return except an occasional neck rub and a homemade Mother's Day card. We miss you, Mom.

I'm grateful to my Mother-in-law for raising the love of my life and giving her away to me. Mom Bev is a master of making home a lovely place, a trait which rubbed off on Annette. I can't think of a time when I didn't feel totally welcome in her home. I also learned from her that I was "striking" in appearance.

The mother of my children makes me practically speechless. From the moment I saw her working with those preschool children in 1981, I knew that my Annie C would be a mom of all moms. I can't even begin to list the countless ways that she has affected the lives of our children (and in turn, mine) for good. No one knows like I do how much she cares for our "jewels" or of the tremendous joy, yearning, and concern felt by her as we raised our children. Hohnee, to quote a famous line, "no one loves you as I do".

By becoming a mom herself, Lindsey has delivered a whole new level of delight into our lives. She has shone as Sadie's mother and we are so excited for her and Blake as they prepare for their second child. Her quiet dignity as a Mother as she guides Sadie through her life's journey is most gratifying to watch.

Laci is a proud member of FMA (Future Mothers of America). I know that she and Eric are very excited to begin their family. A home filled with much love and blessings awaits some lucky spirits. And so do we!

Yes, I've been blessed with many wonderful moms. On this Mother's day, I thank God for that.