I began the day in tears thinking about missing my own dear Mom. One word that described my mother would be “Encourager.” My Mom was my biggest cheerleader. If she only knew how far I’ve come along with my dream of writing and publishing … she’d be waving those imaginary pom-poms and saying, “You go, girl. I am so proud of you!”

But she isn’t here to wish a Happy Mother’s Day. On July 23, 1990 (a very sad day indeed) God chose to bring her home to him. How could such a good woman, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter be taken from us at such a young age? Yet I know that God’s “thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” (Isaiah 55:8).

I wasn’t even sure I could hold it together enough to attend church, but I’m happy to say that the day ended with me feeling thankful and blessed! Our church orchestra and choir played and sang awesome music. God knew just what I needed to hear — He is all we need (Sing to the King). I spent time after the service chatting with some friends.

I felt blessed beyond measure on all counts by the end of the day. God is indeed awesome! God filled in the gaps of missing my own Mom with other’s love and generosity …

• Amanda, our daughter, came to the house bearing cool gifts for me (she has excellent taste!). Steve’s (my husband) mother came over to visit.
• The 4 of us enjoyed a picnic on the deck under beautiful sunny skies
• Andrew, our son, and his wife called from Minnesota and wished me Happy Mother’s Day. I also received a lovingly hand-crafted card and bookmark from the family.
• Steve grilled yummy steaks and asparagus on the grill
• Chat time on our patio swing
• Later, Amanda, Steve and I toured on our motorcycles up north and walked around Long Lake Park. The 2 photography geeks took photos of spring bursting forth.

***

Sing to the King

Come, let us sing a song
A song declaring that we belong to Jesus,
He is all we need.
Lift up a heart of praise,
Sing now with voices raised to Jesus,
Sing to the King.