Meet My Mom (Inspiring Women Series)

All my life, I have seen my mom give, and love, and serve. This year, certain events have transpired that have allowed me to see this in a new light.

My grandmother, who is 88 years old, suddenly came to live with my mom this summer. In a matter of days, my mom’s beautiful dining room was transformed into Puzzle Central, Mom’s office was added to their bedroom, and the former study became a quaint little bedroom, outfitted perfectly for my Grammy.

I saw my mom’s life literally change in nearly every way. Her every waking moment became drastically different.

Between she and my aunt, someone is with my sweet Grammy all of her waking minutes. They care for her every physical need – lotions, ointments, and medicine, clothing that fits right and feels comfortable, warm, watered-down coffee (just how she likes it) tons of yummy foods to eat (Grammy loves sweets!). They take her to church, pray with her, chat with her, and how could I not mention – do puzzles with her (SO SO many puzzles!).

While I know that I would absolutely do the same thing for my parents, it still astounds me to see it: the literal laying down one’s life for another, in love.

Since my Grammy had lived 8 hours away, I honestly wasn’t sure if / how much I would ever see her again. It has been such a gift for me and my kids (and all our cousins and their kids!) to be able to spend time with her and love her. I am so grateful God has provided us with this chance to see her and show her love, after all that she has given to all of us for our whole lives!!

Great-Grammy on her 88th birthday with some of her great-grandchildren. Grammy has 7 kids, 24 grandkids, and 27 great-grandkids (I think! I lost count! Ha!)

As much as my mom is willing and glad to care for her mom, I know that, there surely must be times of feeling exhausted, alone, stretched, and maybe even a little bored! And Mom still makes it a priority to spend quality time with her grandkids who just love her dearly.

It has opened my eyes to the role of “caretaker.” It hints of the newborn baby stage, but less excitement, less cute, a touch of grief. How blessed are those who care for the sick, the elderly as my mom does. With dignity, kindness, compassion, and putting yourself last.

It has been such a powerful reminder to me of what it looks like to serve the ones around you who need it – willingly, without complaining, with joy.

Mom – I’ve said it before. You are one of my heroes. Your family is beyond blessed.

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