Another Father's Day

I know the title sounds rather cynical which I guess I must have intended as it just seemed to type itself.  I don't mean any disrespect to any Father out there in the netherworld.  It seems to me that we are always celebrating some special day on a continuous basis.  I recently received an email that attributed all the special occasions to the "greeting card" companies to boost lagging sales.  Secretaries Day, Administrative Assistants Day, Armed Forces Day, Civic Holiday, all have a need to be celebrated and acknowledged.

I want to ask - who needs a special day to honor their father. or their mother, or their grandparents?  My grandparents are dead, but I certainly didn't need a special day to let them know I loved and treasured them.  My parents are still alive and though not in good health are able to get around a bit.  I talk to them every week, but only see them once in a while.  My relationship with my children is much like mine with my parents.  We all have life to live and goodness, don't you think your parents know how you feel about them and whether or not they were good parents?

Anyway, a good father is hard to find and I do appreciate the fact that my father was a hardworking, church going man.  I admire the fathers of my grandchildren and thank God for providing good stable men to raise these little ones. 

This is a big Thank You to all the Dad's who are struggling to make a good home and provide for the little ones.  May your day be blessed with smiles and much love!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Born the youngest child in a family of four children in 1932, Mom is celebrating her birthday today.  She looks outstanding and is still young at heart.  Life has not always been good to her, but she has always picked herself up and carried on with her life.  I know she gets lonely as in the past few years she lost her last sister and brother, but she stays in touch with what is left. 

Never a big reader, she has taken to Karen Kingsbury's books and likes to read them in order for each series.  She gets very frustrated with us providers when we can't find a complete series or a certain book she hasn't read.  She calls herself "going to bed early" so she can read in peace and quiet in her room. 

I bought her a "goody" bag today filled with all those special little things she doesn't buy for herself.  She can pamper herself to no end, then lay in bed and read while snacking on chocolate covered almonds.  She has earned the treats and the time of rest.

Mom, thanks for all you have done and I hope your day has been special!  Happy Birthday, Mom!