Mother's Day-a little sad and a little glad.

Today is Mother's Day. This day has been a combination of sad on one had and happy on the other for the past twenty years.

My mom died unexpectantly twenty years ago.  Before she got sick, we talked almost every day and I can truthfully say that she was my best friend. Having said that, it was not always that way. When I was very young my Mom and Dad got divorced. As normal in those times, I lived with Mom.  We moved in with my grandparents.  Mom worked two jobs in order to support me and herself, so we did not get to go to the fun places.  Dad on the other hand would take me to the beach, the movies, or just plain buy me stuff. Guess who my favorite was? Not Mom.  Mom was strict, made we follow the rules, use proper manners, etc.  That was no fun. 

When I was about 10 years old, mom got remarried and we moved to Bucks County. Looking back, I had a good life, but as a teenager thinking that I knew everything, I thought the rules stunk.  Mom must of thought she was talking to a wall at times, thought that what she was trying to teach would never sink in. I can remember telling her "I will never make my children do this" "Everyone else is allowed out until..." "Why do I have to go to school, look at all the money I could make if I was working." She however did not give an inch.

Years later, i became a mom and as my children grew up, I found myself sounding a lot like my Mom. My children were saying the same things to me as I said to Mom. They would say "I will never make my children do that" "Everyone else is allowed to do it" Why can't I stay home from school today" It is amazing how much you become like your parents as you get older. Even now that my children have become parents (great parents) I watch some of the same exact words come out of their mouths as came out of My Mom's when I was growing up. Their children's answers will also be the same.

I am writing this today as a tribute to her. I wish I could of showed her more often how I really felt. I wish I could hug her just one more time. I love her and my heart has an empty spot without her. Please show your loved ones that you appreciate them often.  Life is short and no one knows what tomorrow may bring. Enjoy your family and loved ones every day. Do not be so busy making dollars that you forget what is important.

Happy Mother's Day!!!