Saturday, May 06, 2017

Happy Birthday Mum!


As my dear mum turned 70 this year, I wanted to share some words about this incredibly special lady. It's impossible to articulate how I really feel about her, but I'll share the toast I wrote for her birthday dinner.

What a wonderful privilege to call this woman our mum and Grammie. From a new wife with three under three to a loving Grammie that has expanded her flock to 14…your life has been spent pouring into and building up the people around you.

Mum, your caring and nurturing traits are what got you the nickname Mama Ellen at Meadowview and they’re what are at the very essence of who you are. You started off helping out with a brood of five brothers, picked the perfect profession when you became a nurse and spent 30+ years caring for others. And each one of us got the benefit of having you as our MUM.

I dare say I had the best spot in the family – as the “baby”. It meant that I got to spend one on one time with you while the rest were at school.  These memories include baking bread, trips to town, learning to read, many many songs and the time you took me to see my hero – Mr. Dressup.

Honestly, it wasn’t until this past year that I fully realized the sacrifices you made for us. When I remember my days at home, I don’t remember you having many hobbies of your own or nights out with a friend. You were old faithful. Preparing a meal for the family, cleaning up from the meal, helping one of us with a homework assignment, counseling another through some tears, repairing a ripped pair of pants, and making lunches before calling it a night. Mum, you gave everything you had for your family and we are all here tonight to say THANK YOU.

One thing that I’m so grateful for and as an adult have such an appreciation for is our spiritual upbringing. Through it all, you never wavered - faithfully taking us to church on Sunday, Family night on Tuesday, youth group on Fridays all while building a strong foundation of faith in each of your children.

We’ve had many laughs over the years as well. You aren’t afraid to be silly and enjoy a good belly laugh. Actually, a lot of those laughs came on family vacations. Who could forget the squeals of terror on the Cabot Trail or the famous “row boat” incident at Rainbow Valley? Your first trip down the waterslide was one to remember but we were all thrilled that you were brave enough to jump in!

Mum, you truly reflect the meaning of love shared with us in First Corinthians 13.

Mum is patient, Mum is kind. She does not envy, she does not boast, she is not proud. She does not dishonor others,  she is not self-seeking, she is not easily angered, she keeps no record of wrongs. Mum does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. Mum always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Mum, tonight we want to celebrate who you are and who you’ve been. We are all so grateful for the unfailing love and support. Happy 70th birthday and we look forward to celebrating many more with you.

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