Happy Birthday Mom!

Today we get to celebrate Mom's birthday.

She and Dad get to celebrate their anniversary

just days before her birthday each year.

This one was a big one.

SIXTY FIVE YEARS!

That's such a testament to the love they share.

And it wouldn't be possible if they weren't

each amazing in their own right.

Just look how great she looks!

And this was the morning she was leaving her (their)

family homestead of over 50 years.

Incredible!

Mom has a loving family.

And she loves to spend time with them.

She also makes friends wherever she finds herself.

She is a master at knowing what will make others

feel comfortable and loved whether she has

known you for ever and ever or she just met you.

Despite numerous trips in hospital this year,

for treatments, tests, procedures,

and despite being the world's hardest "stick",

she makes everyone's day better for having

spent time with her and everyone is always

sorry to see her leave.

Mom has many traits that make her a wonderful

example of what a woman should be,

but her ability to make everyone better for

having known her is the trait I most want

to learn from her.

Yes, it's the same fabric as Grandma Hanna's blouse,
and that is one of her necklaces!

She's a terrific Grandma too!

And the queen of funny faces... (or I'm the queen of snapping at the wrong instant...)

My Mother.

She is gracious.

She is kind.

She is loving.

She is thoughtful.

She is resilient.

She is patient.

And I love her!

Happy Birthday Mom!