Words for the Heart

“I’m so proud of you. You’re a wonderful mom and wife. You’re doing such a great job.” 

As we stood in my mom’s driveway, sharing a last hug after 5 nights in her home, and she whispered those words into my ear, it was if my weary heart was being revived. Her words will help buoy me through the next season. 

I am thankful for the friends and family I have in my life that speak truth and love. I am not starved for encouragement. However, there is something about hearing those words from one’s own mom. 

As I have said before, the hardest thing through this Covid season has been not seeing my mom and step-dad. Not just the not seeing, but the not knowing when we will see next. And so when I asked my mom what she wanted for her birthday and she replied “the impossible… I want to see you,” we conspired to make it possible. 

It was every bit as lovely and special as you could imagine. Hugs and laughter, walking and working, delicious food (and the most scrumptious homemade tuxedo cake)… 

God created us for community, for belonging, for embracing. He invites us to be a part of what He is doing in the lives of those around us. So here’s a simple message for today: if you see someone do a brave thing, affirm them. If there is something you appreciate about someone, name it. If God puts someone on your mind, don’t stay silent. Reach out and encourage them. God uses many forms to care for and comfort His people. He may be waiting to use you. I know He used my mom to minister to my own heart. 

Now we are home, unpacked and laundry done. We already miss them, but as you’ll see in the photos, we have some beautiful memories. 

Eleanor learning the fine art of watering the garden.

Elizabeth learning the fine art of making hamburger buns.

One generation, forging ahead and making a way for the ones behind. (Caption courtesy of Auntie Yumyum ie. Miriam!)

Adventures after dinner to look for muskrats and bird watch (and try not to get eaten alive by mosquitos…)

Full hearts.