Happy Mothers Day, Mom! I Miss You

Well today is Mothers Day. Happy Mother's Day to my Mom, Nora Pendleton.  Sometimes, this ends up being a sad day for me, just for a little while. My mother, Nora (her nick name was "Babe"), she died in 1991. It was an unexpected death. She had gallbladder cancer and by the time they found it; it was too late. I know, we all think our parents will live forever, and in most cases are shocked when they don't.

My mother was a wonderful woman, though there were times we fought and I disliked her; looking back SHE may have felt the same way. But one thing I do know is that she really knew me and understood me. I also know, that I was a handful!

My Mom was a mother to 6 children. I was number 5 for 11 years and then came number 6; when my mom was 40 years old!!! Our house was always immaculate, decorated tastefully and was warm. My mom made every holiday an event. She would get all dressed up and fix her hair and cook everyone's favorite things, decorate the house; I mean she would go all out! For our birthdays, she would cook our favorite dinner and make our favorite cake. (A tradition I do with my kids).

My mom was an artist. Yes, she could really draw well. She used to draw pics for me when I was little. She could also sing very well, but never really sang in front of people. But I can remember what her voice sounded like; I could hear her sing while she was doing housework. My mom was very creative. She was a great cook and could sew and boy......SHE COULD DANCE!!!!!

My mom used to smile and laugh at me when I would dance around like a ballerina or put on her shoes and sing to "These Boots Were Made For Walking". She attended every singing competition, every band competition and every chorus event and sat quietly on the sidelines. She, unlike my father, never discouraged me from pursuing my dreams relating to music. The only thing she ever opposed is when I told her I wanted to be a cop! lol There were many Mothers Days I didn't have the money to buy her anything, so I would write her poems. I also remember that SHE was there on the very front pew the day (Jan 14, 1973) I was Baptised; I can still see her sitting there; understanding what that day meant. Even though my dad opposed it; she stood by my side and was happily there. I guess the years leading up to that, she must have heard me talking to Jesus in my room...............

I was only 28 when she died. My son Geoffrey was 8 and my daughter Danielle was only 3. I was still a young mother and I still needed her to help me. I think about all the things she has missed or rather I have missed her being a part of. The kids graduating, the kids gettng married and her great grandchildren. I know she would just adore Haley and Meralee. I know that she would just love Erin, Geoffreys wife! Thinking about this right now, is making me cry.

I want to believe that she is watching from heaven above; I know that it is biblically contradictive, but its what I want to believe. I also want to believe that she is proud of me for what I have done with my life and I hope she knows that I appreciate all of her support she gave me, not with her words, but with her actions.

But it has been a struggle for the past 22 years, not having her here. Not sitting on the back deck with her, drinking iced tea and talking. Not being able to call her when I was scared. Not being able to share my children and grandchildren with her and see her smile with joy of being with them. To see what my children have done with their lives. I give my mother the credit for that, she showed me, how much a mother's encouragment means to a child. I have given that to my children.

Thank you mom, I love you and miss so you so mch