A Letter to My Mom....

Dear Mom,

This post, today, is just for you. But I don't mind if others read it, because everyone should know just how wonderful you are. Mom, there are not words to describe how I feel about you. I wouldn't go so far as to say you are perfect, but I will say you are the perfect mom for me. I can't think of a single thing I would change about you. Do you remember the day you were diagnosed with leukemia? Of course you do... one of my most treasured memories of you happened on that day, and I don't know if I've ever taken the time to tell you. I remember as you, dad, and I drove home from the hospital, completely shocked at the news, you were very, very calm. There were many things that the three of us said that night, but the most significant thing I can remember is you saying you would be at peace if this disease took your life. What an amazing statement! As a young person fresh off my mission, I was astounded at your peacefulness and your perspective. I remember thinking that night (and many times since) what that statement meant... it meant you somehow knew you were right with the Lord, and at peace with how you lived your life.

My greatest desire is to live in just such a way. I can't think of a greater gift a mother could give her daughter. Thank you for always being the example I have so greatly needed.

I love you Mom! Happy Mother's Day!!!

Love,
Amy

Mom on her birthday

Mine and Kristin's wedding day.

Halloween

With a few of my other moms - mom, Aunt Barbara, Aunt Bee, and Aunt Jani

Dad and Mom in Yellowstone

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials, heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine, desert us when troubles thicken around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.
-- Washington Irving (1783-1859)

A few other words:

I can't finish this post without recognizing several other very important moms in my life. I love and miss both of my grandmas dearly, and think of them often. They are the two women who so greatly influenced who my parents are today, and made unforgettable impressions on me as I was growing up.

I also love and appreciate my sweet mother-in-law, Cyndy. She has welcomed me into the Sowards family whole-heartedly and treats me with love and respect... not to mention my kids love their "Omi"!

And I could never leave out Tom's two grandmas - Grandma Sowards in Colorado, and "Mommer" in New Mexico. Since my own grandmas have long since gone to the other side, these two beautiful women are now my only grandmas and I love them so much! I wish we lived closer to them so my kids could be influenced more by their example.

Happy Mother's Day everybody!!!