Happy Mother's Day

Last night, well actually by the time I post this it will have been Wednesday night, Riley had a softball game. At 7:15. PM. On the way there, she asked me to be the dugout coach (which I am, but it makes me feel good that she asks me before every game). So, I keep score; I love doing that. My mom taught me when I was in middle school--at my brother's baseball games. As I was yelling out the batting order and lining up the girls, I thought of my mom, who did the same thing. When I was walking Riley to the car, I thought of my mom as I told Riley how well she played and how proud I was of her. Because these are the things she did for all three of us. She never complained. I'm hoping I am that kind of mom, and I believe I am. 

However, I am hoping one day I can fill her shoes. They may only be a size 7, but they are big shoes to fill.  Her children always come first--even though we've been out of the house for years now. I remember things like when she took a part-time job, making less money, so my siblings and I wouldn't be latch-key kids. I remember my parents paying for activity after activity leaving the family with little money at times, but she always seemed to find money for $100 dollar prom dresses. And, when prices rose six years later, $200 gowns. The opportunity cost for this was my mother did without. Frequently. Somehow there was money for two beautiful weddings. (Well, it poured on us during my outdoor wedding, but I'm pretty sure that wasn't her fault.) I am fairly certain my mother had a huge part in that. She was resourceful: getting her friends to help out.  My wedding was catered by her friend, a former Tobacco Co. Club chef. My cake? Cost her $25 for ingredients and was created by a culinary wizard--rivaling any cake in any magazine. I even have a real D.J.--not from a service, but from a radio station D.J. my wedding. 

Which brings me to her mother. That same wedding, my grandmother employed members of her Optimist Club to cook prime rib and other favorites for a nominal fee. My grandmother frequently, and without complaint, cares for the sick. She has kept my daughter many times when I have run out of sick leave late in the school year. She has cared for some of hers and my grandfather's terminally ill siblings. Many have stayed with her while in hospice care, and in order to save their finances for them, she has given them more care than even the best nurse would have provided. 

Both of these women make me proud and inspire me. They are kind, giving and selfless. In short, nothing short of saints in my book.