127-131 Down, 234 To Go!

It was a late night run… 10:30pm and only about a mile fit in. But it’s been a tough week and I’m proud of myself for continuing to run each day. Today, I put off my run because I was caught up in a novel. Yup, read a book in one day because I couldn’t put it down. I won’t tell you which book because you’d probably laugh at me, but for where I’m at it was what I needed… life-affirming, faithful, and all about the beauty of love (in its many forms). And so it brings me to this:

A word to my Mutha…

The summer before I moved to London... can't believe 5 years have gone by

So, no Mother’s Day card or even a call. I FB’ed you and you didn’t even chide me for it, so thank you. In lieu of an appropriately timed Happy Mother’s Day wish, I give you this note of thanks and love. It won’t be tear-jerking enough unless you play this while reading:

Mrs. Jumbo and Dumbo

I’ve always loved that scene and the song itself came to me as I ran along tonight and thought of you. Earlier, when you called, you were so understanding when I brushed you off to finish my book even though you had just done me such a big favor. I could also tell you just wanted to share your excitement about  me finally coming home. I get that, but I’m not entirely there yet… I know you understand.

You have always understood me, even when I believed stubbornly that you didn’t. Thank you for knowing me and seeing when I was heading in the wrong direction, but generally staying out of my way so that I might learn from stumbling. Only the very best mothers can do that and I know it isn’t easy. I also know you only give me a hard time or worry aloud because you want the very best for me. I see that and I promise I have your voice in my head, even though I rarely allow anyone to see how much I’m affected. But you probably already know that, too.

Thanks for having the energy of two parents. I know you see how much I’m like Apu and how much he means to all of your children, but I hope you’ve never felt that we could possibly love him anymore than we cherish you. You were the creator of the still-infamous van-dance, the physical parent that ran us from soccer to dance to music lessons (well, Andre didn’t do dance at least), and the one that somehow corralled three tasmanian devils while keeping the house on its foundation AND  maintained some aspect of your nursing career going. We owe our verbose spunk to you, and don’t we all know it?!

I love you, Mom. You have become a great friend and remain a supportive, loving parent. I’m sorry for the grief I’ve given you, for every time my anger has been mis-directed, and for not finding better and more constructive ways to express myself. Your open heart and understanding of my personal beliefs and faith has made me realize how lucky I am to have such an incredible person as my mother.

So, shucks, thanks a million. You are pretty alright. I love you. Say goodnight Gracie Happy (ever so belated) Mother’s Day!