I learned from the very best. My mom was my best friend. She was always there for me to listen and give wise counsel. Watching her live a life of deep faith serving her family, caring for my dad through a lengthy illness. Mom sacrificed for us -- she put our needs ahead of her own.
Bethany and Marshall filled our home and hearts and being their mom has always made me so proud!
Marshall and Katie married near this same location in Garden of the Gods 24 years later.In all of my mothering -- it was to my own mother that I looked for wisdom and guidance. She never steered me wrong -- loving our kids unconditionally and with utmost care, she gave me strong Biblical counsel.
Like me -- Mom had six grandkids -- 3 boys -- 3 girls. She and Dad felt it their privilege to pray daily for these six.
Mom was such a vital part in all of our lives. She loved hanging out with the Grands and they loved teasing her. As ALS overtook more of her ability to move and talk, all her grands would come to spend time with her. Marshall home from his sophomore year at OSU and Bethany in her first year of teaching, would hang out in her room. She would glow when they came in the room and would laugh and catch up with all that was going on in their lives.
My Mother-in-law, Wanda Bell, taught our children strength and dignity in the face of disability. She did it with grace and class. She was always a "go-to person" for good advice. She was all about children and helping the less fortunate. I see a lot of her in Bethany.
Now I'm the grandmother -- our kids called Mom"Nonnie" -- mine call me "Nana:" This year I got to celebrate Mothers Day with both Bethany and Marshall and our six Grands. Marshall in Denver --- Bethany here in Tulsa. Once again, I'm looking to Mom's example of grandmothering, as well.
These are my favorite mommas now. I watch their busy lives and the strength they use to guide their children and I am amazed.
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