Revisiting The Past

Scrolling through my blog, last night, I got to re-read some of the posts that have documented how my life has unfolded. This is one of my favorites, because it was written when my grandpa was alive and also introduces the people who have been responsible for influencing who I am. I'm re posting it in hopes of reminding some of you that I am not a horrible, crude people bashing person and showing the rest of you that everyone needs people to look up to. No man gets to the top of life's ladder without a good support team to cheer you on. In fact, the climb itself is a lot easier and more joyful with people who love you, by your side.


There are people who play such an instrumental role in helping us develop into the person we are, that they become a part of us, in some way or other. Often times, I will be doing or saying something, and the person responsible for instilling that value or habit in me, pops into my mind. Even though they may no longer be here on earth with me, or live close, they have such a huge affect on my life, that I try to always mentally say a quick word of thanks or prayer for them. Here are some of those people and what they have contributed to my life:


My Great Grandmother, Irene. I have never met a woman so devoted to serving the Lord. She got up EVERY morning, without fail, to read her bible and pray. Up until the time she could no longer stand, she had a ministry of making food for families who needed it. Her specialties were homemade rolls (and don't you DARE call them biscuits!!!), and "Mrs. Shaw's" chocolate cake. She taught me a lot of what I know about cooking, caring for others, and being a prayer warrior. She ended each day the same way began it...in prayer.


My Grandpa, Mel. The only person in the world who could NEVER say a discouraging word to me. Even times when I know that I have disappointed him, he only hugs me and tells me how proud he is of me. He taught me how to love the outdoors, value a good education, and jump on the bed (even though I fell off once.) Anything that I could ever need, I only have to ask of him, and I know that he would provide it. Of course, he is also a firm believer in teaching to fish, not just providing the fish for one day. There is always a lesson to be taught, and a hug to be given!


My Grandma, Jan. She fought so hard to preserve our childhood for as long as possible. She made sure that we always had a dolly to play with. She is the only adult I know that loved to play tea party as much as we did as little girls. She has been a volunteer art teacher since I was in fourth grade. In fact, she gives her time and energy to kids who would not get any attention otherwise. Together, her and Grandpa Mel have faithfully served at churches and schools for well over 30 years. They are true servants of God, and have shared the Word with thousands of children.


My Mom, of course. I've already written a blog in her honor. But it deserves to be said again. She is the strongest person I know, and has grown so much in the past 15 years! She taught me the value of discipline and hard work, which I never knew I would need so much, as when I had kids. She also tries to teach me to be prudent in my saving and careful in my spending...but I've yet to learn that lesson :)


My sister in law, Kathleen. From day one of my first pregnancy, she has been there for whatever it is that I needed. She taught me how to be a mother, literally. I could call her in the middle of the night, and she would never make me feel bad for it. She is always there to listen and offer advice, if sought. She has a loving way of putting me in my place when I need it, and offering a word of encouragement when I'm down. I never had a big sister, and I am so blessed that she took me under her wing and did it with love! If you ask me who I think is deserving of the label, "Super Mom", she would definitely be the one!


My mother in law, Jackie. Some of my brother in laws call me "Jackie Jr." because I am so much like her. Actually, I am only half of what she is (if I'm lucky), but we think a lot alike. I have only had half the amount of kids as her, yet she still tries to tell me that I have it harder!! She has so graciously listened to her daughter in laws (all 8 of them) complain about pregnancy and motherhood, and never once told us what weenies we are! She offers useful tips to save money and keep the kids feeling loved, and has so many stories that make me feel not so bad, during those tough days. She is an absolutely amazing woman, even aside from the fact that she has raised 13 awesome kids, and is a blessing to all those who have the privilege of knowing her. I love her like I love my own mother!