For hundreds of years, the celebration of Thanksgiving in America has been an occasion for reflection and a reminder of the blessings we receive. For that reason, this week, we'll take a brief break from America's early transportation to focus on what we're truly grateful for.
Among my greatest blessings is a very special person; one who has always loved me, always encouraged me, always taught me, and even brought me into this world - albeit dad made her wait until the episode of Wagon Train was over! The patience of this lady speaks volumes. Truth is, all my life, this season has been a time of tribute to my mom. Her birthday always falls on or near Thanksgiving. This year, mom turns 90 years old and I'm reminded of what a special gift she's constantly been to those around her. At her core, she's a giver as well as an incredible memory maker.
As far back as I can remember, mom has always been a giver; a sacrificial servant looking out for those in her family. She continually puts herself last in line while taking care of everyone else. No where has that been more evident than in the kitchen. Some of the best food to ever hit my palette came from our mom. The older I get the more I understand why cowboys tend to be especially respectful of the cook and his/her chuck wagon. There are some things you just can't (and don't want to) live without!
I have so many memories of mom preparing food and so many more of us, as kids, looking forward to what she was setting on the table. From unbelievable Saturday morning breakfasts to homemade sweets and country table treats that left us swollen with goodness, there seemed to be nothing she couldn't and didn't master. Mom is also an incredible seamstress. In my younger days, she repaired and made so many clothes - including miniature vests, jackets, and other outerwear for my G.I. Joe action figures! In fact, when I was in elementary school, I was the true envy of other boys because of her talent and commitment to doing the extra things for her kids. Whether it was the custom creation of a Pecos Bill puppet for a Cub Scout meeting, the foresight to recognize and hang onto family mementos, her constant efforts to photograph the seasons of life, or simply soothing the sorrow of a lost pet, her intuitive strengths shored up our entire family. In fact, it always seemed like nothing was beyond her notice or ability. As kids, dad may have been our protector but mom was our absolute guardian.
On her wedding day.
Mom helped support our family with a host of jobs - all while still assisting with a horse farm, running a household, and the never-ending duties that go with it.
Week in and week out, she was my chauffer, first responder, teacher, mentor, confidant, mediator, banker, doctor, business partner (as a kid selling crawdads at her store), encourager, calendar keeper, and prayer warrior. She was and remains a world of wisdom in a life of heavy winds and hard knocks.
From Colorado to California and Missouri to Alabama, we've been on countless adventures together. Some were actual vacations while others were horse trips, ball games, birthday celebrations, and special family get-togethers. All the while, she's never stopped teaching me and my siblings grace, patience, courtesy, strength, respect, perseverance, independence, and faith.
In truth, my mom set a high bar for my wife. While I succeeded in marrying well, I'm pretty sure my spouse got the shorter end of the bargain! I'm thankful that her expectations weren't as high. Ha! Ultimately, we all live in a world where challenges await us every day. Nonetheless, there are rewards in recognizing and counting our blessings.
To all who read this weekly blog, 'Thank You' for your time, attention, and interest. If you've recently found this site, Welcome! I hope our research and writings provide a measure of insight, intrigue, and maybe even a bit of an escape from the ever-increasing rush of the world. There are hundreds of stories on our site and we're working on a lot more. We wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving and pray you experience even more special memories as we begin to wrap up another trip around the sun.
And Mom... Thank you especially! I love you with all my heart and am so glad to share in this time of celebration. Happy 90th birthday! We're looking forward to so many more!!
David
Luke 17:15-19