In Praise of the Gentleman

Today is the first day of November. I'm going to spend the month concentrating on being thankful, and on helping others. I'm immensely grateful that my husband is a true gentleman. I think that I get my true appreciation for it from my childhood example, my dad. Daddy was always a gentleman - he walked the walk in honoring his wife. And he still does. He expected us to respect my mother. He wouldn't tolerate anything else. He taught me manners, how to act like a lady - and expected me to behave like a lady. This was the example I had. And have. My husband has been a gentleman with me - he's the guy that opens the doors for me, car doors and any other door. He puts me first. He makes sure I order first at restaurants. When I see men ignore their wives and girlfriends, walking far in front of them and going in places without a glance back, I am glad my husband is always mindful of my needs. He doesn't have to treat me this way - he chooses to. I've been treated a lot worse by some real Neanderthals. I am thankful for a servant leader, gentleman spouse. LS

Mother's Day

It's 1am and I'm wide awake. 

It reminds me of times I was wide awake at this hour, and not because of insomnia. 

When I was 18, I was a naive young  mom to a new baby, awake and nursing my new son. Having my firstborn changed me from a teen into a mom. Now he's a great person, the image of his long deceased father, and he fills my heart with joy. He's talented, charismatic, and Called. 

When I was 28, I was awake with my middle son - trying to study for nursing school the only time I could. This kid would. Not. Sleep! He'd peek his head around the corner, grinning. He's still smiling - he is an extremely positive child. He lifts me up every time I see or talk to him!

When I was 35,  I was a single mom. I was awake doing what turned into seven years of night shifts. Yet every time my tired self hit the bed, I'd wake up to my precious blonde daughter, sprawled across me. She's a firecracker, a go getter, and the world better watch out because she's gonna make an impact! She keeps me real!

Nine and a half years ago I met the two  kids who would be enveloped into my army of children. They have expanded my heart as well as my home. They have challenged and humbled me. 

Three years ago I was awake wondering why I had to I give a child back to God. Those weeks of anticipation were exciting and miraculous. That pregnancy made me more compassionate...and infinitely more tender. 

Last year I reconnected stronger than ever with my brother's son, re-enfolding him into my brood, years after carting him around as one of my own. He's my son, too. 

My kids lives are expanding with two spouses I love, as well as a grand baby from my brother's son. 

My life is full.

At one a.m. on this Mother's Day in this quiet, empty house, my heart is full, too. 

I am blessed among women, indeed. 

LS