Everything I needed to know about everything...I learned from Mom.

I have known for a long time that I was at an advantage.  That I had been prepared for life better than some. That I was born with privileges that others will never know.  Not because I have a super talent, or a great magnificent ability.  Not from any lesson I learned in graduate school.  Certainly not because of a  pampered, struggle free, wealthy life.

But because my Mom taught me:

To smile, even if hurts.
That sometimes you have to take a "snow day" even if there is no snow.
That you go to church every time the door is open, because there is an open door.
To be the first to offer help to anyone.
That punch & mints are all you need for a party, and how to make both.
Taught me to pray for, support, honor, and follow my husband ANYWHERE.
That there is no greater cheerleader for me, than her.
To always, always have on good underwear if you leave the house...if you don't, that will be the day you break your ankle and they cut your pants off.
Grow flowers & take care of your yard, and that one day I would find that therapeutic (I'm there now!)
That one day I will get the best sleep out at our Ranch. (Right again, Mom)
Never to yell.
It's OK to cry, but then get it together and go on.
To Always send a Thank You note.
To Give everything you have, and give until it hurts, and never tell anyone.
Always take more than one dish to the potluck.
People are worth the effort. Hands down, People are worth it.
Pray.Pray.Pray. and then listen and follow Him.
No distance will keep a Mama from her baby, no state, no country.
To protect, nurture, adore, shelter and love my children with every part of my being, just as she did for me.
Money means nothing. Don't want for too much, & Don't spend too much. (All children will be OK without Disneyland or a Barbie Car)
If I don't know, "look it up". The dictionary or the Bible, one of them will tell me.

See?
Could not have asked for anything more.
I'm thankful for my education and my experiences in life. I've honestly learned a lot.
But there is nothing that she didn't prepare me for.

Everything I needed to know about everything...I learned from YOU Mom!
I'm so thankful for you.
I love you forever!