What I know for sure!

I know that my Mom loved me! I know that what I am today, the woman that I want to become and the family that I have is because of the influence of an amazing Mother. I know that my Mom taught me how to cook, clean, make a house a home, debate, forgive, pray, listen, talk, laugh, learn to overcome, hang on, buck up, understand, study, meditate, tell a story, think out loud, say too much and LOVE! I hope that I can be the influence of good for my children and that they can understand that I loved them as much as I know my Mom loved me. I figured this out later in my life while my Mom was sick that she really did know what she was talking about.  How I wish I had one more chance to tell a loving Mother just how much she taught me and… that yes, she was right! I love you Mom and miss you every single day!

Reflections... A Different Kind of Hero

Megan entered the "Reflections Photo Contest" at school, the theme was "A Different Kind of Hero".  Meg decided (all on her own I might add) that she would dress Jake up in Dad's uniform and have him hold a picture of Russ in Iraq.  Her write up was, "My little brother is A Different Kind of Hero, he is only four years old and he is having to be the Man of the House while my Dad is deployed.  He is doing a great job filling his boots."!  She got a sheet, put it over a chair and took the picture.  Megan ended up going to District!

Home Sweet Home!

“A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.”

Someone to watch over me!

My Mom was amazing! My Mom had a lap that could hold four children at one time, a kiss that could cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart. My Mom could reason and negotiate. My Mom had strengths that amazed everyone, she would bear hardships, carry all of our burdens, but she also held onto happiness and all that was good in life! My Mom would go without so that her family could have, she was so strong even when she thought she had no strength left. She loved unconditionally. My Mom gave her heart to not only my Dad but also her children and their families, and her dear friends. My Mom kept our world turning; she brought us so much joy, love and happiness. My Mom’s power is un-deniable and her influence and her ability to mentor isn’t limited to just her children. My Mom worked hard to instill faith and values in all of us. I admired the way my Mom effortlessly balanced the duties of motherhood, being a wife, grandmother and a friend. My Mothers strength of character, drive, determination and perseverance made her a woman that I aspire to be. My Mom always provided us a shoulder to cry on, a non-judgmental ear and words of wisdom to guide us through life’s twists and turns! I love you Mom!
Part of my Funeral Talk for my Mom, Terese Johnston January 5, 2005